Editor's Note: Since the publication of this article, Al Corso has permanently closed.
About midway between Appleton and Manitowoc is Collins Marsh, a 4,200 acre wetland. And right next door is a hidden gem fine dining restaurant in the middle of nature. Al Corso in Wisconsin has delighted diners for years, and it's full of historic charm. This stunning place has something for everyone. Check it out:
This gem of a restaurant would be successful in any city in the state - and beyond - but chef owner David Salm loves that his place is a destination restaurant.
The restaurant is located right on the edge of Collins Marsh. Sitting outside on any given day is not only a peaceful retreat, but lets you see pretty much every migratory bird in the country at some point in the year.
The restaurant space is an 1800s saloon and Salm has preserved some of the history of the original location.
With a constantly rotating menu, vegetables and herbs picked from their own half-acre garden or local farmer's markets, and fresh fish flown in, a meal at Al Corso is a dining experience located in the middle of a gorgeous natural setting.
Most everyone who visits Al Corso is there specifically to eat Salm's cooking and that makes the whole meal an experience.
Named to the Best Chefs in America list in 2014, Salm has a thoughtful menu from starter to dessert that's accompanied by a spectacular wine list.
And while folks travel out this way for the amazing food, the views aren't so bad either.
Visitors would be remiss if they didn't spend some time in the Marsh - on foot, bike or canoe - before dinner.
Even if it's just a quick climb up the observation tower to take in the gorgeous views nature has provided, a trip to Collins Marsh is worth it.
The marsh is a stop along the migratory pattern of tons of North American birds, so there's always something interesting to see.
And we haven't really even talked about the food. From aged meats to fresh fish, hand-picked herbs to locally grown produce, the dishes here are ones you'll be talking about for months to come.
Though the main dishes are superb, do yourself a favor and leave room for dessert. From a decadent hot chocolate pudding to a ridiculous bacon chocolate fudge brownie, desserts here are an indulgence you won't want to miss.
Al Corso Restaurant is located at 20931 Main St., Collins, WI 54207. To learn more, visit their website here.
Have you ever eaten here? What are your favorite restaurants with pretty views in Wisconsin? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
If you're looking for more amazing Wisconsin meals, check out our previous article: The 10 Most Highly Rated Restaurants In Wisconsin.
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