The best restaurants in Outagamie County

Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.

When the craving hits, Chopstix Hibachi keeps it classic with fried rice, lo mein, and chow mei fun, plus plenty of chicken, beef, and seafood options. Start with apps and soup, then let the comfort-food carbs carry you through practice runs, yardwork, and whatever Wisconsin throws at you.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, August 8, 2026

If your morning needs a win, Maple Tree Restaurant & Pancake House delivers with a family-style menu that runs from light starts to full-on, multi-plate breakfasts, plus hearty burgers and delicious gyros. Their scrambled eggs get shoutouts, so pencil in a breakfast or lunch this week.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, August 3, 2026

Texas-style BBQ joint dishing up slow-smoked meats, plus housemade sauces and sides.

Mill City Public House keeps things simple and seriously tasty with chef-driven pub fare, from gourmet smash burgers to house-smoked BBQ, plus eclectic daily features. Pair it with a craft cocktail or local brew, enjoy the warm vibe and friendly staff… your weeknight go-to.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, October 5, 2026

GingeRootz Asian Grille brings vibrant Chinese staples and other Asian favorites in a colorful, contemporary space that actually matches the food's energy. Perfect for Fox Cities weeknights with a kids menu in your back pocket, plus catering when the crew decides your place is the spot.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, September 12, 2026

For those nights when cooking feels optional, Lil Taco in Appleton turns out Americanized tacos and burritos that lean comfort over purist. It’s the kind of casual, no-fuss spot where you can plop down with friends or snag takeaway and keep the evening rolling.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, October 24, 2026

Easygoing farm-themed operation offering traditional American dishes & a full bar.

Farm-to-table eatery featuring local, seasonal ingredients and a cozy atmosphere.

Vince Lombardi’s Steakhouse blends Packers history with a chef-driven menu of premium steaks, fresh seafood, and impeccable sides, set among wood paneling and Lombardi-era memorabilia in downtown Appleton. Settle into the Brunswick-style lounge, then raid the curated wine cellar for a bottle worthy of overtime.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, October 29, 2026

Appleton staple since 1991, Stuc's Pizza turns scratch-made dough and a sweet, heavy tomato sauce into pies that actually fill you up, plus legit Chicago-style deep dish, loaded calzones, and pastas from pesto chicken to spicy rigatoni, with beer, wine and house-made desserts... hello, carrot cake.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, October 3, 2026

Breakfast and lunch eatery serving gluten-free options and baked goods.

California raised, Texas trained, High Kaliber BBQ & Catering brings craft barbecue to our backyard with smoked wings, brisket burgers, sandwiches and bowls that don’t mess around. Keep an eye on their fully outdoor Appleton spot opening soon, or tap them for full-service or drop-off catering when the crew gets hungry.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, September 25, 2026

Whether you’re craving a true Fox Valley supper-club vibe or a serious cut of beef, The Red Ox Seafood and Steakhouse delivers with 21-day aged 22oz steaks, haddock 14 ways, and scallops that come by the ten. Award-winning, locally loved, and perfect for game-day hangs in the lounge.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, September 20, 2026

Family-owned for 40 years, Victoria's Italian Cuisine is that go-to Fox Cities spot when you want Italian favorites in giant, shareable portions. The dining room’s fine art murals set the vibe, and the plates do the talking... perfect for easy weeknights, birthdays, or when leftovers tomorrow sound like a plan.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, September 14, 2026

Casual bistro for Italian fare made with Midwest ingredients, artisanal Italian wine & craft beers.

When a proper Chicago dog, juicy burger, or Italian beef dunked in au jus is calling, Downtown Chicago Grill answers with big flavor and zero fuss. Treat yourself this week and let Appleton’s own slice of the Windy City handle dinner.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, October 10, 2026

Steak and other upscale offerings in a cozy atmosphere, plus brunch, cocktails, and catering.

George's Steak House is Appleton’s longtime go-to for award-winning steaks and prime rib, with seafood, chicken, veal, lamb and pork riding shotgun. Classic cocktails, a legit wine list and the ever-popular Friday Fish Fry with Boston clam chowder make it a weeknight upgrade you won’t regret.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, October 16, 2026

Fresh-made margaritas, hand-crafted tableside guac, and molcajetes that arrive sizzling make Sangria's Mexican Grill a weeknight win.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, October 4, 2026

Chain dishing up wings, tenders & burgers, plus sauces ranging from sweet to very spicy.

Ellinor keeps things upscale casual without the fuss, centering an open kitchen and a wood-fired oven that touches pretty much everything. Expect crisp-edged pizzas, burgers, steaks, and seafood built on locally sourced ingredients from nearby farmers, which means the menu feels like Appleton on a plate.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, September 19, 2026

Make this week’s hangout tastier with hibachi sizzle and fresh rolls at Katsu-Ya of Japan. From hibachi that brings the heat to creative sushi and yakiniku, it’s a laid back spot for catching up with friends, celebrating small wins, or just treating yourself because Tuesday deserves better.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, October 18, 2026

Between imported Italian flour, Wisconsin mozzarella, and dough made fresh daily, Christianos Pizza turns weeknights into a brick-oven victory. Grab a pie in Appleton and linger for summer patio music, or order in when life is chaos, because real-deal slices beat decision fatigue every time.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, October 19, 2026

Craving a midweek dinner upgrade? This week, Broken Tree Taproom & Pizza of Appleton is slinging Italian-inspired, American-style Neapolitan pies on homemade hand-stretched dough alongside 48 taps pouring craft beer, ciders, seltzers and wine on tap, with locally sourced ingredients and friendly vibes that just...

From the Fox Cities newsletter, October 9, 2026

When your group can't agree on one cuisine, Author's Kitchen and Bar keeps the peace with international plates, a legit brunch, and cocktails that don’t try too hard. Keep an eye on their pop ups, and grab takeout when the couch calls.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, September 28, 2026

When the sushi craving hits midweek, check out Sushi Lover Appleton for an all-you-can-eat lineup of made-to-order rolls and hibachi, built on premium seafood and a modern vibe. Settle in, pace yourself, and graze your way from first bite to last without the premium price shock.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, October 11, 2026

Counter-serve chain specializing in chicken dishes, plus Southern sides & desserts served in jars.

Glass Nickel Pizza Co. – Appleton keeps weeknights easy with creative, craveable pies and classic pastas made by folks who actually have fun doing it. They run their own delivery crew, lean into green efforts, and stay plugged into the community, so dinner feels good and tastes better.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, October 23, 2026

Apple Valley Pancake House Appleton keeps it classic with fluffy pancakes, loaded omelets, and their self-proclaimed biggest skillets in Apple Valley, all from a family that’s been feeding the Fox Valley since 1990. Cozy vibe, friendly service, and enough breakfast to fuel the whole day.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, September 18, 2026

Casual counter-serve chain serving a variety of chicken wings & sides.

Tomaso's keeps Fox Cities pizza nights easy with local-ingredient pies plus apps, salads, and subs for the whole crew. They cater and host private parties, and when the NFL is on you can catch the big games here while that slice disappears suspiciously fast.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, September 26, 2026

Akame Sushi does all-you-can-eat that’s actually made to order, not sitting in steam trays, with 200-plus options from sashimi and nigiri to soba, teriyaki and teppanyaki. Great for Appleton nights when your group can’t agree on anything except wanting to leave happily, very full.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, September 11, 2026

Artful, contemporary chain outpost serving inventive sushi rolls & traditional hibachi grill fare.

Rye Restaurant keeps Appleton eaters on their toes with a chef-driven menu that changes with the seasons, everything made from scratch right down to the ice cream. Settle in for urban rustic vibes, house-crafted cocktails with house-grown herbs, eight rotating drafts, and a whiskey list that means business.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, October 25, 2026

Lively casual eatery featuring all-you-can-eat buffet options of Korean barbecue and hot pot.

Dong Po Restaurant keeps Appleton happily fed with traditional Chinese favorites and fresh sushi in a welcoming atmosphere, from zippy Kung Pao Chicken and rich Mongolian Beef to specialty pork and family-style tofu. Perfect for that midweek craving or an easy share-with-friends feast.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, October 2, 2026

Angel's Restaurant is the kind of Fox Cities standby where fluffy pancakes, made-to-order omelets, and cinnamon-swirl French toast share the menu with solid burgers and salads. Come for generous portions, stay for the warm, unpretentious vibe, and yes, you can bring the crew for easy group get-togethers.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, September 13, 2026

Whether you’re catching the Pack or just craving something crispy, The Bar - The Avenue nails the combo of famous wings, pizzas, and plenty of HDTVs. Add celiac-friendly options, two handy function rooms, and a breezy summer patio, and you’ve got an easy Fox Cities go-to.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, September 7, 2026

Fast-food chain doling out baked pastas, subs, pizza & other casual Italian fare plus custom combos.

Galvan's Restaurant & Pancake House has been a north Appleton staple since 1998, serving truly big breakfasts, jumbo burgers, and those famous gyros locals swear by, plus a Friday Fish Fry. Family-style, kid friendly, and known for generous portions… this is the week to bring an appetite and settle in.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, October 8, 2026

Family-owned Luigi's Pizza of Appleton turns out decked-out pies like the fiery NEW Volcano and the hometown-nod Green Bay Style, plus calzoni, lasagna, and hefty sandwiches. Perfect for weeknights when the fridge feels judgy... grab breadsticks and call it a win.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, September 6, 2026

Built in 1922, this easygoing eatery offers steaks, seafood & classic American fare, plus a patio.

Since 2006, Cinder's Charcoal Grill Kensington Dr has been Appleton’s go-to for smoky, from-scratch goodness, grilling fresh burgers and that tender ground sirloin steak sandwich over real charcoal.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, September 17, 2026

When the midweek slump hits, Tipsy Taco & Tequila Bar delivers a Frida-themed hangout with original margaritas, creative tacos, and that cult-favorite Double Decker Birria Taco layered with slow-cooked goodness and aged Wisconsin cheddar... basically a Fox Cities hug in tortilla form.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, October 26, 2026

Kid-friendly chain known for baked goods, breakfasts & other standards in dinerlike digs.

Otōto is the small, family-run ramen shop you end up recommending to everyone in Appleton, with broth simmered fresh daily, an open kitchen, and pork buns that disappear fast. Vegan and gluten-free options keep the crew happy, and there’s sake and beer when you want to linger or takeout for weeknights.

From the Fox Cities newsletter, September 21, 2026

Lively chain steakhouse serving American fare with a Southwestern spin amid Texas-themed decor.

Easygoing standby serving handcrafted burgers & many beers on tap, plus shakes, wings & cocktails.