The Nova

After a lazy day spent on the St. Croix River, The Nova is the perfect spot for an evening's repast, and it's all the more convenient to summertime boaters since it's just a short walk from Hudson's marina. The comfortable wine bar features a seasonally changing menu of light snacks, including several appetizers that are perfect for sharing, and priced around $10 per plate. When we visited, a platter of bruschetta had tasty lids of homemade ricotta and red pepper confit as well as prosciutto, Gorgonzola, and apples. Another, called "The Border Battle," featured a face-off between Minnesota and Wisconsin cheeses sided with whole-wheat crackers, stuffed peppers, and a tasty local salami. More hearty dishes, including a green salad topped with marinated flank steak or a bowl of chunky beef barley soup, range between $6 and $8. There are two dozen or so wines by the glass and a comprehensive list by the bottle, categorized by flavor. The cabinlike interior makes Nova an apropos summertime stop as well as a cozy spot for a glass of wine during the colder months, and there’s plenty to keep both locals and passers-through coming back, including live music (that sparkly baby grand isn’t just for show), regular wine tastings, and a book club.

Open W-Sa, 236 Coulee Rd., Hudson, Wisconsin, 715-386-5333.