5 Waterfront Restaurants For Winnebago System Boaters

May. 22 2020 Food/Drink By Sawyer Erickson

Whether you're tubing all day on Lake Butte des Morts, reelin' in the big ones on the Fox River, or soaking up the sun on Lake Winnebago, there comes a time when that sub sandwich that's already been sat on or that weird, warm container of crackers, cheese and sausage just doesn't sound great anymore. We don't blame you. This certainly isn't a full list of all the options on the water, but here are five great options for those times you want to sit down for some food or get out of the sun for a cold one.

Fox River Brewing Company:

Address: 1501 Arboretum Dr, Oshkosh, WI 54901

Website: www.foxriverbrewing.com

Boat Accessible: Yes

Our Favorite: The steak or seared tuna with a cold brew.

Fox River Brewing Co. is a boater's delight and has established itself as a fixture in the Oshkosh community. It offers 2 indoor bar areas, 2 indoor dining rooms, and a massive patio space complete with outdoor bar and multiple seating areas overlooking the water. It has its very own slips free to use for patrons and certainly caters to boaters throughout the season. 

As a fully functioning brewery they also offer their own handcrafted beers to order for dine-in or carry-out. Try one of their most popular brews like the Blu and Red Bobbers, Two Dams Blonde Ale, or their seasonal specialties.


Jim & Linda's Lakeview Supper Club:


W3496 County Rd W, Malone, WI 53049

Website: www.jimandlindas.net

Boat Accessible: Yes

Our Favorite: Anything and everything seafood - check out the frog legs.

Living up to their name, this is one of the best lake views around. Jim & Lindas is in Pipe at Calumet Harbor and offers a great spot for indoor dining or casual patio dining on a warm summer's night. They've got a large, diverse menu so even the pickiest eaters have lots to choose from.

While you're there enjoying some great food be sure to climb the 75 foot tall Calumet Harbor Lighthouse. It's an unforgettable view watching the sunset drench the Winnebago water in a warm glow.


TJ's Harbor Restaurant:


7098 S, US-45, Oshkosh, WI 54902

Website: www.tjsharbor.com

Boat Accessible: Yes

Our Favorite: Definitely the steak gnocchi and crab cakes.

If you're out on the water for the day and ask someone for a restaurant recommendation one of the first names you're going to hear is TJ's. They delicious rotisserie-inspired menu and feature house made pastas and breads. They've got a huge outdoor patio and bar with a second story balcony on the waterside and an incredible interior dining room and bar that we're going to call modern industrial meets up-north cabin - and it's pretty much perfect.

TJ's pretty much offers it all! Including a pavilion that can be rented out for groups or events. 


Becket's:


2 Jackson St, Oshkosh, WI 54901

Website: www.becketsrestaurant.com/

Boat Accessible: Yes

Our Favorite: The Wagner Market ribeye is what all steaks should strive to be.

Becket's is a breath of fresh air located in the heart of Oshkosh, right on the Fox River. Their modern American dining experience is inviting and and their menu is fresh, local, and mouthwatering. It's easy to end up daydreaming while you stare out at the revolving bridge lights watching the other boats go by.

Becket's can also host a variety of groups with their dining options. They can handle it all - from private, intimate dinners to full-fledged weddings in their stunning 8-story tall atrium. If you're looking for a testimonial, the Oshkosh Boat Club is a frequent visitor for their member meetings.


Dockside Tavern:

425 Nebraska St, Oshkosh, WI 54902

Website: www.docksidetavern.com/

Boat Accessible: Yes

Our Favorite: Well, we've got to pick the 'Dockside Yacht Club' sandwich! Try the clam strips to start though.


This list, while small, wouldn't be up to snuff without including Dockside Tavern. It's THE place for live, water-side music. The service is great, the drinks are always flowing, and the food is going to keep you coming back for more. They're conveniently located right on the Fox River and have docks right outside for easy boating access.

If you're looking for a place that's got some great music and a lively atmosphere then the Dockside patio on a Friday or Saturday night is the place for you! Stop by, you're sure to meet up with some other boaters.

Cover photo: Becket's