CANOE BAY
This retreat is perfect for a special occasion. Couples may reserve a candlelit table for two in the dining room—and a room at the inn—and savor the chef’s tasting menu of regional flavors. Chetek, Wisconsin, 715-924-4594, canoebay.com
CHACH’KA
This boutique and restaurant has charming and unusual dining options. A courtyard café serves breakfast, lunch, and wine-bar fare, while a historic jail cell in the basement holds private, five-course dinners. 121 S. Washington St., St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin, 715-483-3228, chachkaboutique.com
FERMENTATIONS
Hidden in the tiny country town of Dundas, just south of Northfield, is this surprisingly chic wine bar and bistro with European fare and more than fifty wines by the glass or flight for sampling. 236 N. Railway St., Dundas, 507-645-8345, fermentations-bistro.com
HARBOR VIEW CAFÉ
This summer favorite for stunning river views and acclaimed rustic American cuisine will change hands in late summer, but the new owners are longtime staffers and no major changes are in the offing. 1st & Main Sts., Pepin, Wisconsin, 715-442-3893
ST. JAMES HOTEL
Book a room and unwind while dining at downtown Red Wing’s historic hotel—breakfast or lunch on the sunny veranda perched above the Mississippi River or dinner in the elegant Port restaurant. 406 Main St., Red Wing, 651-388-2846, st-james-hotel.com
TANGLED UP IN BLUE
Head north along the St. Croix River to this casual bistro in Taylors Falls. With an eclectic menu that changes monthly and all-blue décor, it’s an affordable and funky stop. 425 Bench St., Taylors Falls, 651-465-1000, tangledupinbluefoods.com
WILD RICE RESTAURANT
With its stunning design, wine collection on display, and tempting modern menu, this sleek lakeside dining room is Bayfield’s gourmet destination and architectural showpiece. 84860 Old San Rd., Bayfield, Wisconsin, 715-779-9881, wildricerestaurant.com
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