By Sthefanie Padilla
From April 20 to April 28, Lake Geneva will be buzzing with the annual Restaurant Week, which showcases the culinary talents of local chefs. Each participating restaurant will offer specially created prix fixe menus or special just for Restaurant Week. A prix fixe menu generally includes a two- or three-course meal, and you’ll have a choice between one to three options for each of those courses. The full menu guide for this year’s event is available online. Prices vary from restaurant to restaurant. (If you don’t see your favorite dish on the Restaurant Week menu, don’t worry: restaurants are still serving their full menu during the event.) Whether you are a local looking to try a new spot, or an adventurous visitor looking to explore the area’s dining scene, Lake Geneva’s Restaurant Week (LGRW 24) promises a delectable journey.
1878 on the Lake: A Waterfront Culinary Adventure
Nestled within the historic charm of Lake Lawn Resort, 1878 on the Lake offers not just breathtaking views but also an exquisite culinary experience. For breakfast, dive into the “smorgboard” for a delightful morning spread or opt for the classic Belgium Waffle served with warm maple syrup, whipped butter and your choice of Applewood Smoked Bacon or Pork Sausage Links. Lunch here is a two-course meal, with options that include the tantalizing B.A.L.T.T wrap (bacon, avocado, lettuce, tomato and turkey) and the savory When Pigs Fly sliders. Or opt for the three-course dinner, where you can indulge in the charred cauliflower steak or the irresistible pecan-encrusted filet tournedos, followed by dessert options like flourless chocolate cake or vanilla bean crème brulee.
240 West: Elevated Dining in a Classic Resort
Situated in the prestigious Abbey Resort in Fontana, 240 West offers elevated dining in its hallowed main dining room, which features an impressive beamed ceiling and large stone fireplaces. The dinner-only Restaurant menu offers a three-course option. Begin your culinary journey with the refreshing 240 salad or the robust kale Caesar salad. For mains, relish the seared salmon with roasted corn puree or the rich pappardelle with beef short rib and wild mushrooms, expertly crafted by the resort’s culinary team. For the dessert course, choose from classic crème brulee or the tempting vanilla gelato served in a chocolate-dipped waffle bowl.
Flat Iron Tap: Casual Dining, Unforgettable Flavors
For a laid-back atmosphere and memorable flavors, head to Flat Iron Tap in the heart of Lake Geneva. This two-course menu is available for both lunch and dinner. Start with appetizers like fried brussels sprouts, hand-battered cheese curds or the refreshing arugula salad. Next, choose from mains like The Mocking Bird, a mouthwatering buttermilk fried chicken breast sandwich or The Van Helsing burger featuring an 8 oz., grass-fed beef patty with house-made garlic herb compound cheese. Flat Iron Tap is also featuring Restaurant Week drink specials like the Prickly Pear Mule or the Flat Iron Sangria, carefully curated to complement the bold flavors of the menu.
Arandas Mexican Grill: A Taste of Authentic Mexico
Embark on a journey of vibrant flavors at Arandas Mexican Grill, located in Delavan just a short drive from Lake Geneva. Chef Jesus Leon’s three-course menu is available for both lunch and dinner. Begin with appetizers like the delicious avocado rolls or the chori dip made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. For the main course, savor dishes like the flavorful pollo Kukulcan or the camarones Vallarta, bursting with authentic Mexican spices and flavors. Conclude your meal with desserts like the chocoflan or the mixed berry cheesecake, offering a sweet and satisfying conclusion to your dining experience.
Oakfire Pizzeria & Bar: Italian Classics with a Modern Twist
Experience the timeless charm of Italian cuisine at Oakfire Pizzeria & Bar in downtown Lake Geneva. This popular eatery with enviable lake views has opted not to offer a prix fixe menu, but instead offers some Restaurant Week specials. Start your meal with the burrata fondita, a melty burrata cheese fondue served with Roma tomatoes, Romano cheese breadcrumbs and grilled ciabatta. Or try the flavors of the pizza Vesuvio before satisfying your sweet tooth with angioletti alla Nutella, a fried pizza dough drizzled with Nutella and powdered sugar. Also of interest: you can elevate your dining experience at Oakfire with half-price featured wines.
Café Calamari: Mediterranean Delights by the Bay
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean at Café Calamari in Williams Bay. The two-course, prix fixe Restaurant Week dinner menu starts a choice of their signature bread service and a house salad with mixed greens, raisins, walnuts and honey Dijon dressing. For mains, choose from pork ribeye with red pepper sauce, Verona chicken with peach relish or penne con broccoli with Alfredo and grilled chicken. For those with a sweet tooth, you can complete your meal with half-price desserts.
