Dining Folio

Far from being just a flash in the pan, this long standing establishment has become synonymous for both Mexican food and margaritas in the Green Bay area. Offering a location on each side of town, Los Banditos has something for everyone looking to add some spice to their dining experience.

The bar selection is far from typical, offering all of your common drinks as well as a wide array of margaritas varying from the classic original to the more exotic mango or red raspberry. Other margarita flavors include watermelon, blue raspberry and of course the popular strawberry margarita which is served by the glass or pitcher. The atmosphere is fun and the decorations lend a south of the border feel to the experience.

The deep bar at both locations allows adequate room to socialize with friends or order an appetizer before dinner. It is no wonder this place was voted “Best Bar To Wait For Your Table” in the 2005 Bay City Magazine. In addition, Los Banditos was voted “Best Mexican Restaurant” in the same publication and once you taste the famous Chili Con Queso, Beef Burrito or Pollo En Mole you will freely hand over your vote.

Mexican dishes are extensive and flavorful and whether you are interested in typical Mexican food or want to venture out to something more intriguing, like the Burrito Del Mar stuffed with cod and shrimp and topped with a white sauce, this is the menu to order off of. If you are not in the mood for Mexican or have someone in your group that wants something else the menu offers the traditional Hamburger, Grilled Portabella sandwich or a tempting Italian pasta menu including favorites like the savory Cart Driver Special and the spicy Marisco Cart Driver. The full menu is sure to please the most discriminating palate.

Once everyone has had a chance to drink, eat and socialize make sure you save room and time for postres, Mexican desserts. It is more than a dish it is a memorable part of the evening and it is best if you don’t rush either your selection or your consumption, unless of course you order the house favorite, Deep-Fried Ice Cream, because others at your table may steal a bite of this delicious whipped chocolate or vanilla ice cream deep fried and than drizzled with your choice of chocolate or honey. Sopapillas, deep-friend pastries served with honey, cinnamon and sugar, and Helado, ice cream served with Kahlua and slivered almonds, are worthy rivals for your attention. If you are looking to pamper your belly and your senses this is the place to be.

Both the East and West locations have become mainstays and offer the same great salsa, CCQ and extensive menu. Both locations are equipped with a full bar but if you are looking for a quieter setting or a family event you may opt for the location on the West side which separates the bar from the main eating area. The East side is a popular meeting place for diners of all ages and the open setup allows a nice transition from drinks at the bar to dinner at a table.

Far from being your ordinary Green Bay restaurant, Nukeo Thai, serves the freshest, tastiest and most authentic Thai food in the area. Conveniently located off Main Street on the East side of Green Bay, this place has easy access and lots of parking space. Nukeo Thai is owned and operated by Nuk, a twenty nine year old female who gave up her profession as a biologist to ensure the area has both an ethnic and healthy place to eat. Open for lunch and dinner, Nukeo Thai also offers carry out.

Nuk has a passion for low fat food and with her parents assistance they have created an eatery that is Thai to the hilt. The open room lends a spacious comfortable feel and the deep rich colors of the unique cultural decorations make you feel as if you are dining in a museum surrounded by historical artifacts. Make sure you check out the impressive elephant tusk hanging on the west wall.

The menu has traditional Chinese names for many of the items but the preparation takes place Thai style. Don’t miss out on the appetizers and rush right to an entrée because even though you receive a generous entree portion for the price, the appetizers shouldn’t be overlooked. The Fresh Spring Roll is a real treat and chances are you may never think of a spring roll the same after this incredible and healthy take. The presentation is as impressive as the flavor which includes mint, cilantro, nuts and a delicious sauce that will leave you considering a second order. Other popular appetizers include Crab Cakes, Thai Rolls and spicy Chicken Wings.

The entrees are generous in portion and reasonably priced. The menu emphasizes the level of spice but feel free to ask your server for suggestions because most have tried everything on the menu and are eager to share their favorites. The noodle and rice dishes are cooked with very little oil and Nuk captures much of the authentic flavor by using eggs. If you have ever had great Pad Thai your head will turn with how impressed you are with this selection. The Curry is spicy and hot but don’t worry it is not so hot that you lose the flavor. The coconut milk is fresh and seems to have the perfect portion to make the dish tantalizing. Red, Green, Yellow and Mussamun Curry can all be purchased plain or with chicken, beef, tofu or shrimp added.

Fresh vegetables, ginger, cilantro, scallion, papaya and other great ingredients make the house specialties very attractive. Consider trying the Yum Seafood served with shrimp, mussel, squid, onion, carrot and lemon grass tossed in Thai spice. The Flame Duck and Curry Duck are delightful and leave you wondering why you didn’t check out this place sooner. Papaya Salad is a refreshing dish that leaves you full but not feeling heavy.

Whatever you do save room for the famous Mango Rice dessert. This is a phenomenal dish that arrives looking like a piece of art ready to be photographed. As good as it looks, don’t waste time diving in because the flavored ice cream, rice cakes and fresh sliced mango drizzled with strawberry sauce won’t last long. This is by far the best dessert in the area both in presentation and taste. Nuk creates the flavors for the rice herself and while the traditional flavors are coconut and raspberry rice don’t be surprised if you bite into strawberry, mango or some other delicious fruit.

This bright Mexican style restaurant may just be the new favorite Southwest hangout in Green Bay. The exterior stands out and makes you feel like you are meeting friends in Arizona instead of the east side of Green Bay. The interior décor is deep with red and burnt orange and if you are gathering for happy hour the only argument you may have with friends is whether you want to lounge on the patio or sit in the relaxing bar.

Tucson’s is very generous with their drink portions and regardless of what you order it couples nicely with the complimentary chips and salsa. This place doesn’t mess around when it comes to making margaritas and if you don’t try the signature drink, The Prickly Pear margarita, you are missing out on a delicious drink experience. Staff and bartenders have a sense of humor so feel free to joke around when you order the The Donald, Horny Margarita or Taxico. This place is about presence and the bigger the better so don’t hesitate to make it a jumbo margarita. The bar is fully stocked so if you prefer beer, wine or another mixed drink they are happy to accommodate any beverage need you may have.

Whether you just want some appetizers with Happy Hour or a snack before your meal, the Queso Ranchero is highly recommended. Full of melted jack and Mexican cheese, this dish is served with warm flour tortillas and homemade chips. It may you remind you of a sophisticated CCQ. The Sticky Bones and Wings of Fire are tasty and the Southwest Egg Rolls leave a pleasant taste of chicken, cilantro and the perfect blend of cheese.

Extensive selection of wraps, salads, sandwiches and soups combined with the easy location make this a popular place for business meetings. The Speedy Gonzalez lunch break menu keeps lunch time fun, fast, convenient and affordable. There is no way you will go for fast food again once you realize the taste and quality you get for the same price of a combo at some of the chain restaurants. Heavier options like steak, ribs, chicken and of course, southwest menu items will satisfy any healthy appetite for lunch or dinner.

The Plank Sirloin is grilled on a red hot hardwood plank and creates a nice smoked flavor. Baby Back Smoked Ribs are a savory option and the dry rub makes this a flavorful yet clean meal. Enchiladas, Chimichangas, Tacos, and Burritos are served full of freshness and with the signature sauces: Green Tomatilla, Red Chile or Creamy Pepper Jack. If you’re not sure how spicy you want something be sure to ask the knowledgeable staff and they will be happy to let you know if they can tone it down for you. Children are welcome and even encouraged. The atmosphere is open and family friendly and the children’s menu for kids under 12 offers several Southwest and American food options.

The end of your visit may be the cherry on top of the cheesecake, fried ice cream, key lime pie or any other delicious dessert you order. They offer a large selection of cheesecake all prepared in town by The Cheesecake Factory! Think you don’t have enough room for dessert? Once you see the Grande Margarita Brownie you are going to force yourself to find room. Ice cream and brownies served in a huge margarita glass and covered with chocolate sauce, caramel and whipped cream will leave your tummy feeling like it has never experienced anything so divine.

The brick walls, wooden floors, spacious booths and inviting tables give a warm feel to this establishment that has been a part of Green Bay since the 1950’s and chances are after your first visit you will be asking how to be part of the club. The good news is at the Ten O One Club there are no dues, orientation rituals or stuffy airs’, you can come as you are and as often as you would like and feel free to bring a few friends. A great place to meet colleagues for lunch, friends for dinner or even bring the family for an amazing Sunday breakfast.

Positioned on the corner of Main Street and Webster Street, this establishment is a mix between the The Horse and Plow restaurant at the American Club and the fondly comfortable Cheer’s on television where everyone knows your name. Greeted by a full sized, life-like chef at the door announcing the tempting daily specials, you may have to force yourself to open the menu before making up your mind. It is worth your time to check out the menu since the choices cover the full spectrum and guarantee a selection you will be happy with no matter what your taste buds may be hankering for.

If you can arrive early for a few drinks in the beautifully appointed bar area you won’t be disappointed with the atmosphere or the beverage selection. Pick something off the elaborate martini menu ranging from tantalizing choices like Damsel in Distress and After 8 to the more traditional Cosmopolitan and Perfect Martini. They also carry a nice selection of wine as well as beer from around the world and with bartenders willing to make any mixed drink you desire there is no question you may have a hard time pulling yourself from the spacious wooden bar and comfortable stool when your friends arrive for dinner. The famous Friday night fish fry and other homemade lunch and dinner items will quickly fill the void from leaving the bar and don’t despair because the courteous staff will make sure your beverage needs are met once you have been seated at your booth or table.

The menu begins with a large selection of appetizers including the signature homemade Guacamole and Chips which has become a popular favorite especially on Thursday nights when steak, tuna and chicken lime fajitas along with margaritas are featured. Other pleasing appetizers to kick off your dining experience include Hand Breaded Calamari served with marinara or a garlic butter full of robust flavor, Crab Stuffed Mushrooms that will leave a cheese and seafood experience in your mouth that you won’t soon forget and the Fiesta Chicken and Four Cheese Quesadilla with a cilantro cream sauce is highly suggested as a must try item. If you are in a group try the Happy Family Combo with mucho nachos, chicken fingers and mozzarella sticks.

Entrees are colorful and creative in name, flavor and presentation. Hot Chicks, The Chop House, Sittin on the Dock of the Bay, Heading South and Pasta La Vista give insight to the chicken, steak, seafood, pasta and southwest dishes offered. If you enjoy fish make a point to order the Stuffed Grouper because it is the best in town. The Angus beef cuts are impressive and if you have a hearty appetite you can’t go wrong with the Famous 10-01 Pounder offered at a great price considering the taste and quality of the 16 oz. Portion.

Looking for something on the lighter side? Try one of the famous sandwiches, wraps, burgers or delicious salads. The Texas Chili and Donado’s Homemade Chicken Booyah are always on the menu and the booyah itself is worth the trip. Carrot Cake, Cheesecake and Ultimate Chocolate Cake are standing desserts but if you want to shake things up a little order an ice cream cocktail. Grasshoppers and Brandy Alexander’s are the favorites but the Strawberry Dream, Creamsicle and Banana Boat prove pretty cool and smooth competition.

This is a great place to grab a quick bite to eat and an even better place to spend the evening enjoying great food and good company. Once you have been to this neighborhood establishment you may consider moving into the neighborhood so you can be closer to the good times.

The moment you step through the heavy wood and glass doors of A’s Music Restaurant and Café you will know you are in for a great experience. Brick walls, classy decoration, full bar with character and magnificent baby grand piano give the feel of an establishment on Broadway in New York City instead of Broadway in De Pere, Wisconsin.

Located in the historic Falk Building in De Pere, A’s offers more than fine dining - this is a unique experience like no other in the area. Whether the focus of your visit is food, drink or entertainment you will be delighted with your options. The friendly and hospitable staff ensures your every need is met and will make you feel like an old friend often remembering your drink and food preferences. Victoria, the owner of A’s, circles around to the tables to say hello and will check in on you a couple times throughout the evening.

The bar choices are extensive and Victoria prides herself on offering her patrons a variety of wine options. Not in the mood for a glass of wine? Settle down with a domestic or imported beer or ask for one of A’s famous homemade Old Fashions. They were recently voted as the establishment that makes the best Old Fashion in De Pere.

The staff is professional and describes the specials so well that you feel as if you were part of the preparation. The ingredients are fresh and the menu is full of options like Seafood Provencal, Chicken Northwood’s, Raspberry Salmon and Stuffed Tenderloin. Each entrée comes with soup, salad and bread served with mouthwatering honey butter. All of the soups are made fresh on the premise by the chef, Tina, who also takes the initiative to offer a creative appetizer menu ranging from pesto scallops to brie in a puff pastry and crab cakes.

There is absolutely no question that the quality of the ingredients, chef’s touch and personality of the establishment will leave you feeling as if you have had the creamiest scallop, tenderest duck or most savory lamb by the end of the evening. While the food is delicious and plentiful, don’t forget to leave room for dessert, which you may choose to eat at your table or take into the bar and have over a coffee drink as you listen to the soft chords of the baby grand piano playing. On the weekends live entertainment is common and is not limited to piano players. Expect to hear amazing local vocal talent, acoustic guitars and even cabaret – the possibilities are endless and in 2006, A’s received the Bay City award for best live entertainment.

Keep in mind that the focus of the establishment is their patrons and everyone from the chef to the owner is dedicated to making your experience enjoyable. If you have any questions don’t hesitate to ask and if you are unsure of what to choose you can’t go wrong by asking for a recommendation.

Looking for a hip place to monkey around and meet friends for drinks, a Packer game or even dinner? Located on the corner of Reid and Main Street, this establishment is heavy on large flat screen televisions and monkeys. Large enough to allow a nice size crowd and small enough to offer an intimate feeling, Mojo’s is fast becoming a popular hangout.

The beautifully restored antique tin ceiling and full wall wooden bar with background mirrors add some character to the place and if you are looking to be entertained pick up some darts, shoot some pool in the back or check out the Monkey Hall of Fame. That’s right, if you ever wondered about the first monkey in space or the first monkey to be on a television show stop by this wall and check out their photo and story. Marcelle, the famous monkey from Friends even made the wall.

Owners Curt Cornell and Bobbi Jo Roy want this to feel like your neighborhood bar whether you are from the area or not and with great drink specials on a regular basis it is easy to think every night is a weekend. Be sure to listen for the theme song from Tarzan because when it plays $1.00 shots come out. Mojo’s also offers a great venue for Packer games with large flat screen televisions located nearly every location you look in the bar and the full menu will keep any football fan satisfied.

The full menu includes a wide variety of sandwiches and wraps including the famous Cowboy Burger served with BBQ sauce, bacon and a fried onion ring. If you are looking for something to share with the group tackle some of the more traditional appetizers like chicken strips, fries, cheese curds and onion rings or order one of the many delicious pizzas on the menu. In the mood for something a little more on the healthy side, don’t worry because with the variety of salads you are sure to find something to suit your taste buds. As is the tradition in Wisconsin on Friday night, expect to see plates of fish coming from the kitchen as Mojo’s has added a Friday night fish fry to the menu.