When it comes to great restaurants, you won’t find a shortage in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. From restaurants to beachside sandwiches, there’s a little bit of everything. Popeye is one that stands out from the rest. Its large menu full of specialties and staples has made it a staple in this coastal city for more than 40 years.
Popeye story
In July 1971, Nick and Veronica Anagnos had the idea to open Popeye’s Galley and Grog across the street from the beach on Lake Geneva. At the time it first opened, Popeye’s, as it was later simply called, was just a 60-seat pub. As the business became more successful, the couple continued to expand. They bought adjacent buildings and put in more dining areas until the restaurant could seat 660 seats.
The original owner, Nick Anagnos, passed away in 2011, but the restaurant continued without much change. Popeye’s is being run by his sons, Michael and Dimitri, with the same traditions as their parents before them.
Selection of drinks
As much as Popeye’s of Lake Geneva is known for its food, the fully enclosed lakefront location makes it a popular hangout for drinks year-round.
The Bloody Marys at Popeye’s are famous throughout the city of Wisconsin for much more than Sunday brunch. The most popular is Popeye’s Spicy Bloody Mary, made with a house-infused tomato juice and Skyy’s lightly spiced citrus vodka. They also have six other Bloody Mary options for those who want to experiment with flavors.
Popeye also has a Margarita menu and additional specialty cocktails, such as Jean & Amos’ famous Mai Tai, made with light rum, amaretto, and pineapple and orange juices, then topped with grenadine and a dark rum float.
If you want to try local beer, you can find a selection on tap at Popeye’s on Lake Geneva. They keep drafts of Lakefront Brewery, Geneva Lake Brewing, and Capital Brewery available at all times. Local Wisconsin wines can also be purchased here.
Must have menu items
You’ll find plenty of burgers and sandwiches on the Popeye’s menu, but some of these special items are a must-have while you’re there, whether it’s for lunch or dinner.
This Lake Geneva restaurant is the best known steakhouse and they do it right outside. It began cooking here in 1985, paying homage to the Greek Easter tradition of the Anagnos family. They use a family spice recipe, which is an undisclosed secret, and charcoal for this distinctive flavor. Popeye’s roast lamb, pork and beef, but roast chicken is considered the signature dish.
The rotisserie is available in plates and combos, as well as sandwiches. The pulled pork is amazing.
Other menu items worth a visit at Popeye’s include Baked Brie, available on its own or with shrimp, served with their popular hot and fresh buns; the Reuben Sandwich, stacked on fresh marbled rye; and the broccoli cheese soup. On Friday nights, Fish Fry is also something locals and visitors to Lake Geneva should not miss.
As much as there is on the menu for lunch and dinner, you’ll want to save room for Popeye’s desserts, too. Their banana cream pie is the specialty. It’s creamy and delicious, with fresh bananas and whipped cream.
Location of Popeye’s restaurant
Popeye’s Restaurant is located at 811 Wrigley Drive in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. It’s just across a short street to Riviera Beach, so it offers stunning views of Lake Geneva regardless of the season.
Don’t let the term “Midwestern seaside town” keep you from headlining it in the winter. Like many places on Lake Geneva, Popeye’s is open at 11:30 am, seven days a week, year-round. The restaurant is family-friendly, making it a perfect stop on your Wisconsin vacation, whether it’s a special occasion or Monday through Friday dinner.
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