Elkhart Lake’s culinary scene boasts an enticing gem known as The Garage BBQ Pit and Saloon, a hotspot that perfectly blends the rustic charm of a classic barbecue joint with the lively atmosphere of a local saloon.
Nestled in the heart of this quaint Wisconsin town, this eatery offers a menu that promises a memorable dining experience for both locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re craving smoky, slow-cooked meats or a refreshing craft cocktail, The Garage delivers with a unique combination of flavors and ambiance that captures the essence of Midwestern hospitality.
From the first bite to the last sip, the menu at The Garage BBQ Pit and Saloon is thoughtfully curated to cater to a variety of tastes. It’s a place where traditional barbecue techniques meet inventive twists, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
The welcoming vibe invites diners to relax, savor the food, and soak in the spirited environment that encourages good conversation and great company. For those exploring Elkhart Lake, stopping here is a culinary experience that resonates long after the meal is finished.
Signature BBQ Entrées
The core of The Garage’s menu lies in its signature barbecue entrées, where slow-smoked meats take center stage. Each dish is crafted with care, using time-honored smoking methods that infuse deep, rich flavors.
The pitmasters emphasize quality cuts and a balance of seasoning, smoke, and tenderness to deliver plates that satisfy even the most discerning barbecue aficionados.
Popular choices include mouthwatering ribs, juicy brisket, and tender pulled pork, each accompanied by a selection of house-made sauces. The sauces range from tangy and spicy to sweet and smoky, allowing guests to customize their experience with every bite.
The Garage also offers combo platters, perfect for those who want to sample multiple meats in one sitting.
Must-Try Items
- St. Louis Style Ribs: Slow-smoked to perfection and glazed with a rich, smoky barbecue sauce.
- Beef Brisket: Hand-trimmed and smoked for 12 hours, served with a tangy chipotle sauce.
- Pulled Pork Sandwich: Tender pork shoulder piled high on a toasted bun, complemented with house-made coleslaw.
- Combo Platter: A generous portion of ribs, brisket, and pulled pork, ideal for sharing.
“The slow-smoking process at The Garage brings out the natural flavors of the meat, creating a depth you can taste in every bite.” – Local Food Critic
Appetizers and Starters
The Garage BBQ Pit and Saloon’s appetizers set the tone for the meal with bold flavors and satisfying textures. These starters are designed to pair well with the main courses or to be enjoyed on their own during a casual visit to the bar.
The menu offers a variety of options, from classic fried favorites to inventive dips and shareable platters.
Many appetizers feature house-smoked ingredients, adding a signature smoky note even before the main course arrives. Crispy wings, loaded nachos, and smoked sausage bites are among the favorites that keep guests coming back.
The portion sizes are generous, making them perfect for groups or as a hearty snack alongside a cold beverage.
Popular Starters
- Smoked Wings: Tossed in your choice of sauce, from buffalo hot to honey BBQ.
- Loaded Nachos: Tortilla chips piled with smoked pulled pork, cheese, jalapeños, and fresh pico de gallo.
- House-Smoked Sausage Bites: Served with a tangy mustard dipping sauce.
- BBQ Quesadilla: Filled with smoked chicken, cheese, and caramelized onions.
| Appetizer | Flavor Profile | Portion Size |
| Smoked Wings | Spicy, smoky, sweet | 12 wings per order |
| Loaded Nachos | Savory, cheesy, smoky | Large platter, serves 2-3 |
| House-Smoked Sausage Bites | Smoky, tangy, savory | 8 pieces with sauce |
| BBQ Quesadilla | Cheesy, smoky, slightly sweet | Half or full order available |
Saloon Favorites and Sandwiches
The Garage’s saloon section offers an enticing array of sandwiches and handheld favorites that capture the spirit of casual dining. These dishes combine hearty portions with bold flavors, perfect for those looking for a satisfying meal that’s easy to enjoy.
The sandwiches are made with freshly baked buns and quality meats, often featuring their signature smoked options.
The menu also includes inventive twists on classic pub fare, incorporating smoked meats and unique sauces to elevate the experience. Whether you prefer a messy pulled pork sandwich or a crisp chicken sandwich, these options provide a perfect balance of comfort and creativity.
Pairing these with one of the many local brews on tap enhances the overall flavor journey.
Top Sandwiches
- The Garage Pulled Pork: Slow-smoked pork, BBQ sauce, and crunchy slaw on a toasted bun.
- Smoked Brisket Melt: Brisket with melted cheddar and caramelized onions on grilled rye.
- Blackened Chicken Sandwich: Spicy chicken breast with lettuce, tomato, and garlic aioli.
- Classic Cheeseburger: Juicy beef patty topped with cheddar, pickles, and house sauce.
“The Garage sandwiches are a masterclass in balancing smoky flavors with fresh, crisp ingredients.” – Regular Patron
Fresh Salads and Lighter Options
For those seeking lighter fare without compromising on flavor, The Garage BBQ Pit and Saloon provides a well-rounded selection of salads and healthier choices. These options showcase fresh, locally sourced ingredients combined with smoky accents that keep the menu balanced and appealing to all tastes.
Salads are crafted with attention to detail, offering a variety of greens, vegetables, and proteins. The dressings are house-made, adding a fresh, tangy twist that complements the smoky elements prevalent throughout the menu.
These dishes provide a refreshing contrast to the heavier barbecue plates while maintaining the signature Garage flavor profile.
Salad Selections
- Smoked Chicken Caesar: Crisp romaine, smoked chicken breast, parmesan, and creamy Caesar dressing.
- BBQ Ranch Salad: Mixed greens with pulled pork, cheddar, tomatoes, and tangy ranch dressing.
- Garden Fresh Salad: Seasonal veggies, mixed greens, cucumbers, and a balsamic vinaigrette.
- Southwest Quinoa Bowl: Quinoa, black beans, corn, smoked chicken, and chipotle-lime dressing.
| Salad | Main Ingredients | Calories (Approx.) |
| Smoked Chicken Caesar | Romaine, chicken, parmesan, croutons | 520 |
| BBQ Ranch Salad | Greens, pulled pork, cheddar, tomato | 600 |
| Garden Fresh Salad | Mixed veggies, cucumbers, balsamic | 350 |
| Southwest Quinoa Bowl | Quinoa, black beans, corn, chicken | 480 |
Hearty Sides and Accompaniments
No barbecue meal is complete without the perfect sides, and The Garage excels in offering a variety of hearty accompaniments that complement their smoked meats beautifully. The side dishes range from classic barbecue staples to creative vegetable options that balance richness and freshness.
The emphasis is on bold flavors and textures, with options that cater to both traditional palates and those seeking something a little different. Whether you opt for creamy mac and cheese or a crisp coleslaw, each side is prepared with the same care and attention as the main dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Popular Side Dishes
- Mac and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection.
- Smoked Baked Beans: Slow-cooked with a hint of smoky sweetness.
- Coleslaw: Crisp, tangy, and refreshing, made fresh daily.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Seasoned with garlic butter and smoked paprika.
“The sides at The Garage aren’t just additions — they’re essential partners to the main dishes, each bringing its own burst of flavor.” – BBQ Enthusiast
Desserts to Satisfy Every Sweet Tooth
Ending the meal on a sweet note is a priority at The Garage BBQ Pit and Saloon, where the dessert offerings provide just the right amount of indulgence. The dessert menu features classic southern-inspired treats and inventive creations that complement the smoky, savory flavors experienced earlier in the meal.
From rich chocolate cake to tangy fruit cobblers, these desserts are designed to satisfy a wide range of preferences. The portions are generous, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo after a hearty barbecue feast.
Many desserts are served with homemade ice cream or whipped cream, adding an extra layer of decadence.
Dessert Highlights
- Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie: Rich pie with a hint of bourbon, topped with pecans and whipped cream.
- Peach Cobbler: Warm peaches baked with a crumbly topping, served with vanilla ice cream.
- Smoked Apple Crisp: Apples with a smoky twist, topped with oats and brown sugar.
- Classic New York Cheesecake: Creamy and smooth, served with a berry compote.
| Dessert | Key Ingredients | Price Range |
| Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie | Chocolate, pecans, bourbon | $7 – $9 |
| Peach Cobbler | Fresh peaches, crumb topping, vanilla ice cream | $6 – $8 |
| Smoked Apple Crisp | Apples, oats, brown sugar, smoked cinnamon | $6 – $8 |
| Classic New York Cheesecake | Cream cheese, graham cracker crust, berry compote | $7 – $9 |
Craft Beverages and Cocktails
The Garage BBQ Pit and Saloon complements its robust food menu with an impressive selection of craft beverages and cocktails. This bar section is carefully curated to enhance the dining experience, featuring local brews, classic cocktails, and unique house specials that reflect the spirit of Elkhart Lake.
Guests can enjoy a rotating lineup of craft beers on tap, including IPAs, stouts, and seasonal offerings from Wisconsin’s best breweries. The cocktail menu blends traditional recipes with innovative flavors, often incorporating smoky or spicy elements to echo the barbecue theme.
Non-alcoholic options are also thoughtfully included for those seeking refreshment without the buzz.
Bar Highlights
- Smoky Old Fashioned: Bourbon, smoked bitters, orange zest, and a cherry garnish.
- Garage IPA: Local craft beer with hoppy, citrus notes.
- Spicy Margarita: Tequila, fresh lime, jalapeño, and agave syrup.
- House-Made Lemonade: Freshly squeezed with a hint of mint.
“The beverage program at The Garage is a perfect match for the food—bold, flavorful, and thoughtfully crafted.” – Beverage Director
Family and Group Dining Options
Recognizing that dining is often a shared experience, The Garage BBQ Pit and Saloon offers menu options tailored for families and larger groups. These selections make it easy to enjoy a variety of dishes together, showcasing the best of the menu while accommodating diverse tastes and appetites.
Group platters, family-style meals, and shareable sides are designed to encourage communal dining and festive gatherings. This flexibility makes The Garage an ideal destination for celebrations, casual get-togethers, or simply a hearty meal with loved ones.
Group-Friendly Offerings
- Family Combo Platter: Ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and three large sides, serving 4-6 people.
- Party Wing Bucket: 50 smoked wings with assorted sauces.
- Build Your Own BBQ Platter: Customize meats and sides to suit the group’s preferences.
- Kids’ Menu: Smaller portions of favorites like pulled pork sliders and grilled cheese.
| Menu Option | Serves | Price Range |
| Family Combo Platter | 4-6 | $60 – $75 |
| Party Wing Bucket | 8-10 | $50 – $65 |
| Build Your Own BBQ Platter | Varies | $40 – $70 |
| Kids’ Menu | 1 | $6 – $10 |
Conclusion
The Garage BBQ Pit and Saloon in Elkhart Lake stands as a shining example of how traditional barbecue and a lively saloon atmosphere can come together to create a truly exceptional dining experience. Its menu showcases a rich tapestry of smoky, savory, and sometimes sweet flavors that cater to a broad audience—from devoted barbecue lovers to those seeking fresh, lighter fare.
Every dish is crafted with intention, from the slow-smoked meats to the house-made sides and desserts, complemented perfectly by a thoughtfully curated beverage selection. The welcoming environment encourages guests to relax and savor their meals, whether dining solo, with family, or in a group.
For anyone visiting Elkhart Lake, The Garage BBQ Pit and Saloon offers more than just a meal—it offers a memorable culinary journey that celebrates community, flavor, and the art of barbecue.
