Welcome to Golden Nugget
Golden Nugget, located in Pine River, WI, is a nostalgic gem that transports visitors back in time. Celebrated for its authentic Wisconsin Friday night fish fry, this beloved establishment features a simple yet delectable menu, including hand-breaded fish and homemade German potato salad. With an old-school ambiance and the longest bar in Wisconsin, Golden Nugget creates a lively atmosphere where friendly conversations flow freely. The welcoming service, paired with generous portions and fair prices, makes this spot a must-visit for locals and travelers alike. Be sure to experience the charm and flavor that define this cherished restaurant.
Golden Nugget: Reviews & Ratings
You're driving through a teeny town, and coming up to this building makes you feel like you're going back in time. Thank God they haven't renovated a thing to "modern" (yuck) standards. This is old school as good as it gets - the way things used to be, and the way a WI Friday night fish fry should be. There is nothing fancy here, and that's a good thing. This place is the happening spot on a Friday night in Pine River. Known as having the longest bar in the state of WI. Serving Fridays only, 4-7:30. Get there early, because they fill up fast. Friendly service. A fun place to visit with people sitting near you, and the food is outstanding! Homemade German potato salad, coleslaw and tartar. Hand-breaded fish. Very simple menu. Just an ice cream sundae for dessert, or there were slices of homemade desserts packaged and stacked on the bar. Two fish plates for us were 23. With 2 sodas, we spent a total of 27. History on the building: Built as a general store by Alanson Mellen Kimball (1827-1923), who is listed on Findagrave as a "famous burial" in the Pine River Cemetery. Info on him: U.S. Congressman. He was elected to represent Wisconsin's 6th District in the United States House of Representatives, serving from 1875-1877. He also served as a member of the Wisconsin State Senate from 1863-1864, and as a delegate to the Republican National Convention from Wisconsin in 1884.
The place to be for a Friday night fish fry and to experience the unique One of a Kind atmosphere that you feel up north and in the middle of nowhere. All of the fish fry on the menu are delicious.
It's a step back in time. Awesome fish and awesome old fashioneds.
One of the best dive bar/restaurants you'll find in Wisconsin. Big food portions fair drink prices. You walk away hungry there its your own fault!! Only open on Fridays. Say hi to Theresa when your there! She cooks all the fish dinners.
Golden Nugget has the best fish fry around! The haddock is good but I prefer the perch.
It is an interesting experience. Excellent food at a very reasonable price. For this reason, it is a little different venue..very country and old-fashioned. You get your own drink and head to a table. All the neighbors are there and it is only open for fish on a Friday night.
This place is family friendly, and Hidden gem, affordable fish fry and cocktails.
The fish was amazing. Perfectly cooked the german potato salad phenomenal and the coleslaw Homemade. I like everything else they make in the house. The French dressing they also make. Some of the lowest prices anywhere in the state. A dozen shrimp for 6 bucks, and the fish dinner you get a good amount of pieces of fish it's definitely worth the trip #fishfry #shrimp # Perch #Walleye #hallabit
Location
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Pine River, WI 54965, United States Hotline: +1 920-987-9097
Welcome to the Golden Nugget, an iconic gem nestled in the heart of Pine River, Wisconsin. This charming establishment transports you back in time, offering an atmosphere rich in nostalgia and tradition. As you approach, the unassuming facade hints at the captivating experience that awaits inside.
Golden Nugget is renowned for its legendary Friday Night Fish Fry, serving from 4 PM to 7:30 PM. A popular spot for locals and visitors alike, this dive bar is always buzzing with energy as diners gather to enjoy hefty portions of expertly hand-breaded fish, whether you prefer haddock or perch. The menu remains refreshingly simple, focusing on what it does best: serving delicious fish with homemade sides like German potato salad and coleslaw, complemented by tartar sauce that enhances every bite.
The ambiance evokes a sense of community, where friendly service thrives, and conversations flow freely. It’s the kind of place where you sit shoulder to shoulder with fellow diners, sharing stories over delicious food and drinks. Speaking of drinks, the old-fashioned cocktails are highly praised, adding a classic touch to your dining experience. The generous portions ensure you leave satisfied, with many extolling the virtues of their vast and affordable menu spread. As Kristin Radtke poignantly notes, “there is nothing fancy here, and that’s a good thing.” This simplicity resonates throughout the dining experience, creating a genuine connection between the patrons and the food.
A poignant piece of history adds depth to your visit. Golden Nugget was originally built as a general store by Alanson Mellen Kimball, a notable figure in Wisconsin's political arena, giving an air of historical significance that few can rival. This connection to the past, combined with its authentic offerings, captivates all who step through its doors.
In today’s fast-paced world, Golden Nugget stands as a bastion of tradition, reminding us to appreciate the art of simplicity and community dining. Whether you’re a local or passing through, this establishment is a must-visit for any fish fry fan. Mark your calendar for Fridays, and be prepared to indulge in what many consider the best fish fry around!