Nestled along the shimmering waters of Osthoff Lake, the Osthoff Lake Deck Menu offers an exquisite dining experience that blends breathtaking views with an extensive selection of culinary delights. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely lunch, a refreshing cocktail, or a sumptuous dinner, the menu is thoughtfully curated to cater to a diverse palate.
The ambiance of the deck, combined with the fresh, locally sourced ingredients, elevates every dish to a memorable occasion. Guests can enjoy the gentle lake breeze and panoramic vistas while savoring flavors that highlight both traditional favorites and innovative creations.
The menu is designed to complement the tranquil setting of the lake, emphasizing fresh, seasonal produce and expertly prepared dishes. From light appetizers to hearty entrées and decadent desserts, the Osthoff Lake Deck Menu ensures a balance of taste, texture, and presentation.
Every item is crafted with care, aiming to satisfy both casual diners and culinary enthusiasts. The outdoor setting invites guests to relax and indulge in a food experience that is as much about the environment as it is about the cuisine.
Appetizers: A Perfect Start
The appetizer section of the Osthoff Lake Deck Menu is designed to awaken your taste buds and set the tone for an unforgettable meal. These starters feature a variety of flavors, from crisp and refreshing to warm and comforting, all prepared with fresh ingredients sourced from the surrounding region.
Whether you prefer something light or a bit more substantial, the appetizer offerings provide a great way to sample the kitchen’s creative approach. Many of these dishes are ideal for sharing and pair beautifully with the menu’s selection of beverages.
The emphasis on seasonality means the appetizers often highlight local produce and catch-of-the-day seafood.
Signature options include hand-cut calamari with a zesty aioli, a classic cheese and charcuterie board showcasing Wisconsin’s finest selections, and a vibrant beet salad with goat cheese and candied pecans.
Each dish is thoughtfully plated, combining aesthetics with bold flavors.
Popular Appetizers
- Calamari Fritti: Tender calamari rings lightly breaded and fried, served with a house-made lemon garlic aioli.
- Wisconsin Cheese & Charcuterie Board: A curated selection of local cheeses, cured meats, nuts, and artisanal crackers.
- Beet & Goat Cheese Salad: Roasted beets, creamy goat cheese, candied pecans, and a balsamic reduction drizzle.
- Lake Perch Sliders: Mini sandwiches featuring crispy fried perch, tangy slaw, and a dill tartar sauce.
“Our appetizers are crafted not just to start your meal, but to immerse you in the rich flavors of the region and the freshness of the lake’s bounty.” – Executive Chef
Entrees: Hearty and Flavorful
The entree options on the Osthoff Lake Deck Menu are a celebration of both land and lake. These dishes feature robust flavors, generous portions, and a perfect balance of textures.
They are designed to satisfy a wide range of preferences, whether you crave a succulent steak, fresh fish, or a vegetarian delight.
Each entree is paired with seasonal sides that complement the main ingredient without overwhelming it. The kitchen’s dedication to quality and presentation shines through in every plate, with careful attention to seasoning and cooking techniques.
The menu also offers gluten-free and lighter options to accommodate various dietary needs.
From grilled salmon with a citrus glaze to a classic ribeye with herb butter, the entree section showcases the best of Midwestern cuisine infused with modern culinary twists. The use of fresh herbs, locally sourced vegetables, and house-made sauces elevates these dishes beyond the ordinary dining experience.
Signature Entrees
- Grilled Lake Trout: Served with lemon butter sauce and a side of sautéed seasonal vegetables.
- Herb-Crusted Ribeye: A 12-ounce prime cut, grilled to perfection, topped with garlic herb butter.
- Vegetable Risotto: Creamy arborio rice cooked with seasonal vegetables and finished with Parmesan.
- Chicken Marsala: Pan-seared chicken breast in a rich mushroom and Marsala wine sauce.
| Entree | Preparation Style | Pairing Suggestion |
| Grilled Lake Trout | Grilled with citrus glaze | Chardonnay or light lager |
| Herb-Crusted Ribeye | Grilled, herb butter topping | Cabernet Sauvignon or stout beer |
| Vegetable Risotto | Creamy, slow-cooked | Sauvignon Blanc or pilsner |
| Chicken Marsala | Pan-seared, Marsala sauce | Pinot Noir or amber ale |
Seafood Specialties
Given its lakeside location, the Osthoff Lake Deck Menu features an exceptional range of seafood dishes that capitalize on the freshness of the catch. These specialties highlight the versatility of fish and shellfish through creative preparations and complementary flavors.
From delicately pan-seared whitefish to hearty seafood boils, the selection caters to lovers of both subtle and bold tastes. The emphasis on sustainable fishing practices ensures that every seafood dish is not only delicious but also responsibly sourced.
Seafood entrées are accompanied by house-made sauces and side dishes that enhance the natural flavors without overpowering them. The menu encourages diners to explore lesser-known lake fish varieties, offering a unique culinary adventure.
Notable Seafood Dishes
- Pan-Seared Whitefish: Lightly seasoned, served with lemon caper sauce and wild rice pilaf.
- Lake Perch Basket: Crispy fried perch with tartar sauce and seasoned fries.
- Seafood Boil: A mix of shrimp, clams, and crab simmered in a spicy broth.
- Crab Cakes: Jumbo lump crab, lightly breaded and pan-fried, served with remoulade.
“Our seafood menu is a tribute to the lake’s bounty, offering fresh, sustainable options that celebrate local flavors and textures.” – Head Chef
Salads and Light Fare
For those seeking lighter options or a refreshing complement to their meal, the salads and light fare section offers a range of healthy and flavorful choices. These dishes emphasize fresh greens, vibrant vegetables, and house-made dressings.
Whether as a starter or a standalone meal, these options are perfect for warm days on the deck, providing nourishment without heaviness. Many salads incorporate seasonal fruits, nuts, and cheeses to add complexity and variety.
The menu also includes wraps and sandwiches that are crafted with care, featuring high-quality ingredients and balanced flavors. These lighter dishes maintain the commitment to freshness and presentation seen throughout the menu.
Featured Salads and Wraps
- Osthoff Garden Salad: Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions with a house vinaigrette.
- Grilled Chicken Caesar Wrap: Romaine, parmesan, and Caesar dressing wrapped in a soft tortilla.
- Strawberry Spinach Salad: Baby spinach, fresh strawberries, feta cheese, and candied walnuts with poppy seed dressing.
- Turkey Avocado Club: Sliced turkey, avocado, bacon, lettuce, and tomato on toasted sourdough.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Calories (Approx.) |
| Osthoff Garden Salad | Mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers | 180 |
| Grilled Chicken Caesar Wrap | Chicken, romaine, parmesan | 450 |
| Strawberry Spinach Salad | Spinach, strawberries, feta, walnuts | 320 |
| Turkey Avocado Club | Turkey, avocado, bacon | 550 |
Signature Cocktails and Beverages
The beverage menu at the Osthoff Lake Deck is carefully designed to complement the food offerings and enhance the overall dining experience. From refreshing cocktails to a curated selection of wines and craft beers, there is something for every preference.
The cocktail list features both classic and innovative drinks, often incorporating local flavors and seasonal ingredients. Bartenders pride themselves on using fresh herbs, house-made syrups, and quality spirits to create memorable concoctions.
Non-alcoholic options are equally thoughtful, including freshly squeezed juices, mocktails, and artisanal sodas. The drink menu is an essential part of the deck’s social atmosphere, encouraging guests to relax and savor the moment.
Popular Cocktails
- Lakeside Mule: Vodka, ginger beer, fresh lime, and mint.
- Osthoff Old Fashioned: Bourbon, bitters, orange zest, and a touch of maple syrup.
- Blueberry Basil Smash: Gin, muddled blueberries, basil, lemon juice.
- Seasonal Sangria: Red or white wine infused with fresh fruit and spices.
“Our cocktails are designed to capture the essence of Osthoff Lake — fresh, vibrant, and inviting, perfect for enjoying with friends or a quiet moment alone.” – Lead Mixologist
Desserts: Sweet Endings
The dessert menu offers a selection of indulgent treats to complete your meal on a sweet note. Every dessert is crafted with the same attention to quality and flavor as the savory dishes, using fresh, seasonal ingredients whenever possible.
From classic favorites like homemade cheesecake to more inventive options like lavender-infused panna cotta, the desserts balance richness with freshness. Many are perfect for sharing, allowing guests to explore several options.
Seasonal specials rotate regularly, incorporating fresh berries, local honey, and artisanal chocolates. These finishing touches ensure that your dining experience ends with a memorable flavor and a satisfied palate.
Popular Desserts
- Classic New York Cheesecake: Creamy and dense with a graham cracker crust, topped with fresh berries.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Warm chocolate cake with a molten center, served with vanilla ice cream.
- Lavender Panna Cotta: Silky custard infused with lavender, paired with a honey drizzle.
- Seasonal Fruit Tart: Crisp pastry shell filled with custard and topped with fresh, seasonal fruits.
| Dessert | Main Ingredients | Sweetness Level |
| New York Cheesecake | Cream cheese, graham cracker, berries | Medium |
| Chocolate Lava Cake | Dark chocolate, eggs, sugar | High |
| Lavender Panna Cotta | Cream, lavender, honey | Low to Medium |
| Seasonal Fruit Tart | Pastry, custard, fresh fruit | Medium |
Family-Friendly Options
The Osthoff Lake Deck Menu thoughtfully includes options tailored for younger guests and families seeking a relaxed dining experience. These dishes are flavorful yet approachable, designed to please children and adults alike.
Portion sizes are adjusted to suit smaller appetites, and the ingredients focus on familiar favorites with a gourmet twist. The menu encourages families to enjoy the lakefront atmosphere together without compromising on quality or taste.
Additionally, the staff is attentive to dietary needs and special requests, ensuring that all family members feel welcome and satisfied. This focus on inclusivity and comfort makes the deck a popular choice for multi-generational gatherings.
Kid’s Favorites
- Mini Cheese Pizzas: Made with fresh tomato sauce and mozzarella on a hand-tossed crust.
- Chicken Tenders: Crispy breaded tenders served with honey mustard and fries.
- Macaroni & Cheese: Creamy cheddar sauce over elbow pasta, a comforting classic.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Melted American cheese on toasted sourdough bread.
“Creating a menu that welcomes families is key to our mission — everyone deserves a great meal with a view, no matter their age.” – Restaurant Manager
Conclusion
The Osthoff Lake Deck Menu is a harmonious blend of local flavors, seasonal ingredients, and culinary craftsmanship designed to enhance every dining experience by the lake. Its diverse offerings—from fresh appetizers to hearty entrees, innovative cocktails to decadent desserts—ensure that every guest finds something to delight their palate.
The attention to detail in preparation and presentation reflects a deep respect for the natural beauty surrounding the deck and the community it serves. Whether visiting for a casual lunch, a celebratory dinner, or a family gathering, the menu caters thoughtfully to all occasions and preferences.
Dining at the Osthoff Lake Deck goes beyond just food; it is an immersion into a lifestyle that values quality, freshness, and the joy of sharing good meals in a stunning setting. This commitment to excellence guarantees that every visit leaves a lasting impression, inviting guests to return time and again.
