Although this food item originated in Germany, no trip to Wisconsin is complete without a traditional bratwurst. From Sheboygan, to Madison and Milwaukee, here are 10 of the best places to indulge in an authentic bratwurst in a bun.
The Charcoal Inn may not look like much from the outside, but once seated, visitors are quick to realize why exactly this joint has been repeatedly named as one of Sheboygan’s best diners. After all, this is Wisconsin’s no-frills delicious food at its best. In particular, the joint is renowned for its world-famous Sheboygan bratwurst sandwich, infused with spices and left to sizzle to perfection over a smoky charcoal fire. As well as being generous with the toppings, what makes the sausages exceptional is the way that they are prepared. They are sliced, laid flat and served with lots of butter. For those who want to try something else, the steak and chicken breast sandwiches will also ensure diners don’t leave hungry.
The Charcoal Inn, 1313 S 8th St, Sheboygan, WI, USA, +1 920 458 6988
Another establishment in Sheboygan, Gosse’s has been operating for more than 30 years, calling Northwestern House its home for the last 15. Serving casual American-style cuisine, the family-orientated menu here ranges from exceptional steak sandwiches and hamburgers, to grilled chicken dinners and split open double brats. All meals are served with generous portions of butter, pickles and onions. Finish off your meal with one of the tortes, whipped-cream confections that are the definition of a Midwestern dessert.
Gosse’s at the Northwestern House, 1909 Union Ave, Sheboygan, WI, USA, +1 920 457 8696
At The Wicked Grille, hungry diners will be pleased with the menu specializing in signature gourmet burgers. Served with a Sheboygan hard roll and handmade beef patties, they repeatedly bring the crowds in from the local watering holes. However, brats are also on offer, ranging from the Chicago dog, Detroit dog and the brat platter. The latter offer two grilled Johnsonville bratwurst served on a choice of bratwurst buns or rolls. If you’re passing by on Friday however, the delicious fish fry won’t go amiss either.
The Wicked Grille, 1327 N 14th St, Sheboygan, WI, USA, +1 920 458 6572
OSS Madison, or Old School Sausages, succeeded in re-imagining one of the state’s greatest comfort foods, giving locally sourced bratwursts a twist with gourmet toppings and sauces. Currently, there are 10 options on offer, everything from the classic bratwurst, to the smoked variety. Alternatively, opt for more adventurous sausages, such as the veal or the spicy chorizo brat. Pair this with toppings ranging from sauerkraut, caramelized onions, sautéed peppers, relish or local shredded cheese. You’ll have yourself an exceptional bratwurst experience.
OSS Madison, 910 Regent St, Madison, WI, USA, +1 608 709 1000
As the name suggests, Hot Dog Avenue is perhaps one of the best place to get your sausage fix in the Wisconsin Dells. Run by a Chicago dog enthusiast, there are eight varieties on offer here, from the famous Chicago dog, to the child Texas dog. There is also the Italian beef, gyros, Philly cheesesteak sandwiches and burgers to cater to every taste. For those on the move or wanting to satisfy the kids, pick from one of the meal deals which also include fries and a fountain drink.
Hot Dog Avenue, 1321 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy, Wisconsin Dells, WI, USA, +1 608 253 2728