When the Wilmot Stage Stop first opened its doors in 1848, Wisconsin was not yet admitted as a state into the Union. A lot has happened in the 170+ years since, but the Wilmot Stage Stop has endured. After closing for about six months in 2016, this timeless Wisconsin restaurant has returned, and it's better than ever. The Wilmot Stage Shop is now in its seventh generation of family ownership, and the re-opening gave the opportunity for new family members to join in the amazing legacy of this historic location.
The restaurant re-opened in January 2017 after an outpouring of support from the community. Their customers convinced the seventh-generation owners that revamping their business and making a go of it were worthwhile.
Though now much of it is hidden from the public's view, the bones of the building show the rough timber and square nails that were used to build it more than 160 years ago.
The building looks much the same as it did when it was constructed. It was originally opened to provide weary travelers with a comfortable place to stop when those were at a premium. Rooms were available, and there was a place to rest and change horses and get a hot meal. It was likely the best thing travelers had for days.
When they opened their doors, a patron could get lodging, stabling for their horse and three meals for $1.75.
The third floor was set aside for lodging, though they now haven't offered that for nearly a decade. When they reopened, the owners set aside the third floor to display some of the many artifacts and historical items they have collected through the years.
Don't leave without visiting the third floor. It's one of the most fascinating places in Wisconsin.
From being admitted to the Union to the Gold Rush and on through the Civil War, the early years of the Wilmot Stage Shop were filled with monumental events and they now have the artifacts gathered and preserved over the years displayed for the public to see.
The Stage Stop was the center of the community - a place to share information, meet up with other locals and gather the residents.
One new addition is the display of the original bar and clocks that hung here. They aren't functional anymore, but are preserved to share with patrons and honor the restaurant's history.
Though not much has changed about the original building itself, the closure and re-opening gave the owners a chance to refine the menu, hire a new chef and mixologist and bring back the quality and charm that this supper club had become known for.
The charcoal grill is still here, but the beef is now certified angus, there's a tuna steak on the menu and the lobster tails are still as mouthwatering as ever.
Some thing have changed, but the core of what Wilmot Stage Stop has always been has stayed the same. It's still a down-home Wisconsin supper club serving hearty meals you'll want to come back for again and again.
The fabulous ice cream drinks remain and have been joined by a cadre of new and interesting cocktails created by the new in-house mixologist.
The dining room is set and just waiting for a whole new group of patrons to discover what people have been loving for over 170 years.
The Wilmot Stage Stop is located at 30646 113th Street (intersection of C & W), Wilmot, WI 53192. To learn more about this timeless restaurant in Wisconsin, visit their website here.
Have you dined at the Wilmot Stage Stop? What are your favorite supper clubs in Wisconsin? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
Looking for more historic restaurants in Wisconsin? Check out these 14 old restaurants in Wisconsin that have stood the test of time.
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