Restaurants Worth the Drive

The Dam Bistro
This quaint restaurant serves dishes made from local ingredients in a cozy environment, complete with wood floors and a fireplace. Head out to the tiny deck to view the falls of the St. Croix while enjoying a glass of wine. 115 N. Washington St., St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin, 715-483-5003

The Harbor View Cafe
This gem is located along the bluffs of the Mississippi River and offers a daily-changing menu of seafood specialties, chicken dishes such as coq au vin, and vegetarian options. Wooden booths, chalkboard menus, and walls adorned with hundreds of books create the ambiance. 1st & Main Sts., Pepin, Wisconsin, 715-442-3893

Native Bay
Chef Nathan Berg’s seasonal menu features—almost exclusively—fresh, local, and regional ingredients. The restaurant is situated on Lake Wissota and takes advantage of its beauty by renting out pontoons for exploring the lake and nearby Chippewa River. 9504 Co. Hwy. S S., Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, 715-726-0434

Nosh Restaurant & Bar
Nosh has relocated to Lake City from Wabasha. With an upscale, daily-changing menu, plus regional and local ingredients, it’s the premier dining option on the Minnesota side of Lake Pepin. 310-1/2 S. Washington St., Lake City, 651-345-2425

Tangled Up In Blue
Executive chef Ross Reed took ownership of this eclectic bistro in January. French entrées, Midwestern classics, and seafood are all served up in a colorfully decorated and inviting space. 425 Bench St., Taylors Falls, 651-465-1000

Trempealeau Hotel
This small, old-fashioned hotel has a dining room with a Mississippi River view and boasts a diverse menu of upscale seafood, Mexican dishes, and pastas, plus favorites such as ribs, pork loin, and coconut shrimp. Our favorite, though, is the trademark walnut burger. 150 Main St., Trempealeau, Wisconsin, 608-534-6898