Doc Kelly’s Public House in Waupaca offers more than just a meal; it delivers an experience steeped in local charm, hearty flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere. Known for its commitment to quality and a diverse menu that caters to every palate, Doc Kelly’s stands as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike.
Whether you’re craving traditional pub fare, innovative chef specials, or a refreshing beverage to accompany your meal, this establishment ensures each visit feels both familiar and exciting. The menu is thoughtfully curated, blending comfort food staples with contemporary twists, all served in a rustic yet refined setting that reflects the spirit of Waupaca.
Dining at Doc Kelly’s is about more than just food; it’s about community and connection. The extensive menu is designed to appeal to a broad audience, including families, couples, and groups of friends looking to unwind.
Each dish highlights fresh ingredients sourced locally whenever possible, creating a farm-to-table feel that enhances every bite. The culinary team prides itself on balancing traditional Irish pub influences with Midwestern favorites, resulting in dishes that feel both nostalgic and innovative.
For those who appreciate a well-rounded dining experience, Doc Kelly’s Public House menu offers a variety of appetizers, main courses, desserts, and beverages, each with its own distinct personality. The menu is continually evolving to incorporate seasonal ingredients and customer favorites, making every visit a new adventure.
Whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, Doc Kelly’s ensures that quality and flavor remain at the forefront of every meal served.
Appetizers and Starters
Doc Kelly’s appetizers set the tone for the meal, offering a range of flavors that are perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. These starters showcase a mix of classic pub favorites alongside unique creations that highlight the kitchen’s creativity.
Each appetizer is thoughtfully prepared to be both satisfying and a great introduction to the meal ahead.
The menu includes a variety of options catering to different tastes and dietary preferences. From crispy fried offerings to lighter, vegetable-forward plates, there is something for everyone.
The use of fresh, local ingredients in these starters ensures vibrant flavors and satisfying textures.
Some popular choices include traditional Irish nachos, loaded with melted cheese, bacon, and green onions, and the house-made pretzels served with a tangy mustard dip. Vegetarian options are also available, such as the roasted vegetable flatbread, which combines seasonal produce with a blend of cheeses and herbs.
Popular Appetizers
- Irish Nachos: Crisp potato slices topped with cheddar, bacon, and scallions
- House Pretzels: Soft pretzels served with Dijon mustard and beer cheese sauce
- Roasted Vegetable Flatbread: Seasonal vegetables, mozzarella, and fresh herbs on a crispy crust
- Buffalo Chicken Dip: Spicy, creamy dip served with toasted baguette slices
“Our appetizers are designed to be the perfect start to your meal, combining comfort with a touch of innovation.”
Signature Entrees
The heart of Doc Kelly’s menu lies in its signature entrees, which blend traditional Irish pub classics with American comfort food. These dishes are crafted to deliver bold flavors and generous portions, making them ideal for those seeking a satisfying, well-rounded meal.
Each entree highlights the kitchen’s dedication to quality ingredients and expert preparation. From slow-cooked meats to expertly seasoned seafood, the variety ensures that both meat lovers and pescatarians find appealing options.
The menu also emphasizes rich sauces and accompaniments that elevate each dish beyond the ordinary.
Special attention is given to presentation and taste balance, with sides that complement the main ingredients perfectly. The entrees are perfect for pairing with one of the many craft beers or signature cocktails available at the pub.
Entree Highlights
- Shepherd’s Pie: Ground beef and vegetables topped with creamy mashed potatoes
- Fish and Chips: Beer-battered cod served with tartar sauce and coleslaw
- Steak and Guinness Pie: Tender beef braised in Guinness, encased in flaky pastry
- Grilled Salmon: Served with lemon-butter sauce and seasonal vegetables
| Dish | Main Protein | Accompaniments | Flavor Profile |
| Shepherd’s Pie | Beef | Mashed potatoes, peas, carrots | Hearty, savory, comforting |
| Fish and Chips | Cod | Fries, tartar sauce, coleslaw | Crispy, tangy, fresh |
| Steak and Guinness Pie | Beef | Pastry crust, gravy | Rich, robust, flaky |
| Grilled Salmon | Salmon | Vegetables, lemon-butter sauce | Light, zesty, tender |
Burgers and Sandwiches
Burgers and sandwiches at Doc Kelly’s Public House offer a perfect blend of hearty, flavorful ingredients served on fresh, quality bread. Ideal for casual dining or a fulfilling lunch, these menu selections showcase the kitchen’s ability to elevate familiar favorites.
The burger selection features juicy patties cooked to order, paired with an array of toppings ranging from classic cheddar and bacon to unique house-made sauces. Sandwiches are crafted with attention to texture and flavor, ensuring a satisfying bite every time.
Vegetarian and gluten-free options are thoughtfully included, reflecting Doc Kelly’s commitment to accommodating diverse dietary needs without sacrificing taste or creativity.
Must-Try Burgers and Sandwiches
- The Kelly Burger: Angus beef with cheddar, caramelized onions, and house sauce
- BBQ Chicken Sandwich: Grilled chicken breast with smoky BBQ sauce and coleslaw
- Veggie Delight: Grilled portobello mushroom with roasted peppers and goat cheese
- Reuben Sandwich: Corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing on rye
“Our burgers and sandwiches are crafted with fresh, quality ingredients to deliver maximum flavor in every bite.”
Soups and Salads
Doc Kelly’s soups and salads offer lighter dining options bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. Perfect as a starter or a meal on their own, these dishes emphasize seasonal produce and house-made dressings.
Soups are often made from scratch daily, featuring hearty stews or creamy blends that reflect both Irish and Midwestern culinary traditions. Salads combine crisp greens, fresh vegetables, and complementary proteins or cheeses, creating well-balanced plates that satisfy without heaviness.
The menu accommodates various dietary preferences, including gluten-free and vegetarian options, ensuring all guests find something fresh and delicious to enjoy.
Featured Soups and Salads
- Classic Irish Potato Soup: Creamy potato base with leeks and herbs
- House Salad: Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and house vinaigrette
- Caesar Salad: Romaine lettuce, parmesan, croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing
- Beef and Barley Stew: Slow-cooked beef with barley and root vegetables
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Calories (approx.) | Dietary Notes |
| Irish Potato Soup | Potatoes, leeks, cream, herbs | 250 | Vegetarian |
| House Salad | Mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, vinaigrette | 180 | Gluten-free, Vegan option |
| Caesar Salad | Romaine, parmesan, croutons, dressing | 320 | Contains gluten and dairy |
| Beef and Barley Stew | Beef, barley, carrots, onions | 350 | Gluten-free option available |
Desserts
The dessert offerings at Doc Kelly’s Public House provide a sweet conclusion to any meal. They combine traditional Irish favorites with American classics, each crafted with care and quality ingredients.
Whether you prefer something rich and indulgent or light and refreshing, the dessert menu caters to all cravings.
Each dessert is presented with an eye for detail, ensuring that the final bite leaves a lasting impression. Seasonal specials frequently rotate, offering guests the chance to enjoy unique treats alongside staple favorites.
Popular choices include the classic Irish bread pudding, a rich chocolate stout cake, and homemade apple crisp served warm with vanilla ice cream. These desserts beautifully balance sweetness with texture, making them memorable highlights of the dining experience.
Sweet Selections
- Irish Bread Pudding: Traditional pudding with whiskey sauce
- Chocolate Stout Cake: Moist chocolate cake infused with stout beer
- Apple Crisp: Warm baked apples topped with oat crumble and ice cream
- Vanilla Bean Cheesecake: Creamy cheesecake with a graham cracker crust
“Dessert at Doc Kelly’s is not just an afterthought—it’s an essential part of the experience, crafted to delight every palate.”
Craft Beers and Beverages
Doc Kelly’s Public House boasts an impressive selection of craft beers and beverages, perfectly complementing the rich flavors found throughout the menu. The drink offerings emphasize local brews alongside classic favorites, ensuring a diverse range of options for every guest.
The beer list features rotating taps of Wisconsin’s finest microbrews, as well as select international imports that align with the pub’s Irish roots. For those who prefer non-beer options, the cocktail menu includes expertly mixed drinks, house-made infusions, and whiskey selections that celebrate Irish tradition.
Non-alcoholic beverages are also given thoughtful attention, including craft sodas, fresh lemonades, and specialty coffees that round out the beverage program. Each drink is served with an eye for quality and presentation, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Featured Beverages
- Local Craft Beers: Rotating selection of IPAs, stouts, and lagers
- Irish Whiskey Flights: Curated tastings of premium Irish whiskeys
- Signature Cocktails: Classic and creative drinks featuring fresh ingredients
- Non-Alcoholic: House-made sodas and specialty coffees
| Beverage | Type | Flavor Notes | Price Range |
| Guinness Draught | Stout | Rich, creamy, roasted malt | $6 – $8 |
| Lakefront IPA | IPA | Hoppy, citrus, pine | $5 – $7 |
| Irish Coffee | Cocktail | Whiskey, coffee, cream | $8 – $10 |
| Homemade Ginger Ale | Non-Alcoholic | Spicy, sweet, refreshing | $3 – $4 |
Family and Group Dining Options
Doc Kelly’s Public House understands the importance of dining as a shared experience, offering family and group dining options that cater to larger parties without compromising on quality or service. These options make it easy for groups to enjoy a variety of dishes in a relaxed environment.
Group menus are customizable and designed to showcase the best of Doc Kelly’s offerings, providing a balance of appetizers, entrees, and desserts that satisfy diverse preferences. The staff is attentive to dietary restrictions and special requests, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Family-style platters and shareable dishes promote a communal dining atmosphere, encouraging guests to sample a range of flavors and textures. This approach fosters connection and celebration, making Doc Kelly’s a popular choice for gatherings and special occasions.
Group Menu Highlights
- Appetizer Platters: Selection of favorites including pretzels, wings, and flatbreads
- Mixed Entree Trays: Combination of shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, and grilled chicken
- Dessert Sampler: Mini portions of bread pudding, chocolate cake, and cheesecake
- Customizable Beverage Packages: Beer, wine, and non-alcoholic options
“Sharing a meal at Doc Kelly’s is about more than food—it’s about creating memories with the people who matter most.”
Conclusion
Doc Kelly’s Public House in Waupaca offers a menu that embodies the warmth and richness of traditional Irish pub fare while embracing the local flavors and culinary creativity of the Midwest. The diverse range of dishes ensures that every guest, from the casual diner to the discerning foodie, finds something to delight their palate.
From flavorful appetizers to hearty entrees, indulgent desserts, and a carefully curated beverage selection, each element of the menu is crafted with dedication and care.
The emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, combined with a welcoming atmosphere, makes dining at Doc Kelly’s an experience that goes beyond just eating. It’s about community, comfort, and quality—values that shine through in every bite.
Whether gathering with family, sharing with friends, or enjoying a quiet meal, Doc Kelly’s Public House offers a menu that invites you to savor every moment and every flavor. This is a place where tradition meets innovation, making each visit a memorable culinary journey in the heart of Waupaca.
