For more than ten years, when we wanted the greatest of all Door County craft cocktails, we’d head to Wickman House in Ellison Bay. They were just that good. The drinks at the James Beard nominated Wickman House even got a mention in the New York Times. The hardest part was deciding which one to order. The menu was vast and each concoction, a temptation. Sadly, Wickman closed in 2023.
Craft cocktails with a view
Why did we go on about a cocktail bar that no longer exists? Because we found a new menu that includes some Wickman originals! And plenty more beyond that. The Shoreline Restaurant in Gills Rock recently went through an ownership change, and, to our delight, a cocktail menu makeover. Bar manager Matt and owner Mekaila put together a menu that “brings you timeless classics and fun new twists.”
The restaurant invites to try their Blue Cheese Martini where Matt fat-washes the vodka with blue cheese. While we were tempted, we opted for Chef Bob’s Old Fashioned. It’s a “proper” Old Fashioned just the way we like it. And in our quest to find the best margarita in the peninsula we ordered the Shoreline Margarita. It’s made with fresh squeezed orange and lime juice AND egg whites. It was fresh and creamy and definitely makes our list of top Door County margaritas. (Read to the end to see #1).
The restaurant was in the middle of creating a beautiful outdoor patio when we last visited. It should be a great place to visit on a nice day! By the way, the two cocktails Wickman shared with Shoreline are the “Corpse Reviver #2” and the “Aviation.” Whatever you get, may we suggest you pair it with the whitefish dip, take in the stunning views, and enjoy!
Craft cocktails in the heart of Sister Bay
If you’re looking for a “Wisconsin Style” Old Fashioned, (but also make it high end), head to Chop in Sister Bay! There’s something about the feel of the place, and that green velvet, that makes you want to start with a great cocktail. And Chop has one of those cocktail menus that makes it hard to pick just one. The “Door County Mule” with cherry and lime sounds delicious. But so does “In Dew Thyme” with Thyme Liqueur, Blackberry Liqueur and ginger ale.
Between three of us, we sampled several! “Rooted In The Garden” with Rhubarb Liqueur was a winner. Chop has some happy hour specials and outdoor seating for optimal people watching in the heart of Sister Bay.
Sip a craft cocktail by the outdoor fire…
Speaking of great people watching, one of our favorite spots is just off the main drag in Fish Creek. Nestled in between Bayside Tavern and Alibi Marina, the foot traffic going by Barringer’s is constant. But you still feel nestled in with the beautiful stone fireplace and the lush landscaping.
In our group of friends, we’ve ordered more Dirty Bleu Doors than we can count. It’s just the right amount of salty brine and comes with a perfect hand stuffed olive. If you’re looking for something refreshing on a hot summer day, try the muddled mojito or the Cherry Bramble served over crushed ice. If you’re hungry, may we suggest oysters, the lobster bisque or a lobster roll!
Alexander’s for a tried and true happy hour
If you’re exploring Door County’s craft cocktail scene, don’t miss Alexander’s in Fish Creek. It’s upscale fine dining. But it’s also super welcoming and the bar is a hidden gem. Although, if you are a local, it’s not so hidden. We like the sweeping bar and the extensive cocktail menu. It offers some local flavors, like the Door County Cherry Margarita made with juice from Lautenbach’s Orchard. Or the Door County Cherry Martini made with Door County Cherry Vodka. Speaking of martinis, there are plenty to choose from, even if you’re in the mood for chocolate and peanut butter!
The Old-Fashioneds here are Wisconsin style made with Chef Bruce’s pre-muddled mix. Your choice of whiskey or brandy. Your choice to make it sweet, sour or press. We like to belly up to the bar, order one of those Door County craft cocktails and pair it with some appetizers. You could make a meal of the shrimp tempura and baked brie.
Craft cocktails on Door County’s “quiet” side
In the last few years, one of our absolute favorite places to eat and drink is Chives in Baileys Harbor. The restaurant recently went through a “glow up” with its interior design. It’s a little moodier, which we think makes for the perfect spot to enjoy a craft cocktail. The view of Lake Michigan doesn’t hurt, either.
We’ve sipped on Manhattans and some of their signature cocktails, like the Velvet Revolver, seen below, with tequila and velvety stuff! Our friend Rebecca, says the Bees Knees was “the bees knees.”
The cocktail menu at Chives changes seasonally. If you’re not sure what to get, let the knowledgeable bartenders do the thinking for you!
You can’t go wrong with any of the above Door County favorites for a satisfying sip. Some honorable mentions include Hill Street for their Painkillers and the best Margarita and Husby’s for a Bloody Mary (especially during Fall Fest.) If wine is more your thing, get yourself to Twelve Eleven. Now you just need a designated driver and a reservation at one of these luxury homes. Cheers!
