Eat Hearty this Winter in Northern Door County

Heirloom Cafe and Provisions' deli case has plenty to discover.

Heirloom Cafe and Provisions’ deli case has plenty to discover.

After enjoying one of Door County’s excellent outdoor experiences, like a stroll through a picturesque village, a glide through a state park on skis or a hike through a land trust on snowshoes, you’re sure to need some sturdy grub. True, Wisconsin is known for heavy comfort food laden with cheese and washed down with a cold brew. But Northern Door County’s winter meal options are getting a facelift. Several newer spots in Baileys Harbor and Sister Bay marry hearty and healthy in their breakfast, lunch and dinner fare.

Heirloom Cafe and Provisions

Heirloom's to-go options

Heirloom’s to-go options

I recently visited Heirloom Cafe and Provisions, a health-and-convenience-conscious eatery just off of Highway 57 on County Road F in Baileys Harbor. I walked in at lunch time to find several tables booked and a friend already in line to order ahead of me. She said it wasn’t her first visit, and she really loves the food. I ordered a turkey sandwich from the deli and a container of pumpkin and farro salad. While waiting for my order, I chatted with some more friends and they raved about their loaded everything bagels with salmon. I knew I had to return to try this option. My lunch was flavorful and satisfying—the farro salad a little sweet and deliciously seasonal. Besides a breakfast and lunch menu for the sit-down restaurant, Heirloom’s deli boasts house-made take-away sandwiches, salads and plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Have dinner at Heirloom in December when their La Cena series kicks off with four Friday night dinners featuring cuisine from the Oaxaca region of Mexico.

Distance from the Blacksmith Inn: Walkable in 5 minutes or drivable in 1 minute (.2 miles)

Reservations: Not required, but recommended for the La Cena dinner series

 

Cloud Nine Juice Bar & Cafe  

Centrally located corner of County Road Q and Highway 57 just south of Sister Bay, Cloud Nine Juice Bar and Cafe is committed to providing “the cleanest, most nutritious food possible.” Owners Miranda and Taylor grow what they can in their expansive garden out front. When you order a juice or a smoothie, you’ll watch it come together before your eyes, from whole fruit or vegetable to delicious drink. Their small but well-curated menu presents sweet and savory breakfast and brunch fare. The gluten-free waffle is unforgettable, the Pick-Me-Up juice fantastic when feeling under-the-weather, and the Feel Good Milkshake smoothie the perfect post-ski refuel.

Distance from the Blacksmith Inn: Driveable in 8 minutes (6.4 miles)

Reservations: Not needed

 

McEvoy’s Culinaria

Great meat! McEvoy’s Culinaria on Highway 42 in Sister Bay is a real, fully-stocked deli. It boasts loads of freshly-sliced meat and cheese options for fresh build-your-own sandwiches or hot paninis. The deli case teams with homemade salads, and the shelves are stocked with unique European treats. The eatery also makes paella, the Spanish rice dish packed with meat and seafood. Choose a sit-down meal or take a boxed lunch to go.

Distance from the Blacksmith Inn: Driveable in 12 minutes (8.8 miles)

Reservations: Not needed

 

All of these restaurants have winter hours, though be sure to check their websites for specifics. After a delicious meal that won’t make you feel like hibernating, cozy up before a fire at the Blacksmith Inn. Check our availability for your visit.