Nightingale Supper Club in Sturgeon Bay continues to serve locals and travelers with timeless charm. As one of Door County’s most respected dining establishments, it blends tradition, community, and flavor into a unique supper club experience. Known for its prime rib, fresh seafood, and cozy Wisconsin-style setting, Nightingale stands as a true reminder of old-school hospitality with modern appeal.
Nightingale Supper Club: Classic Door County Eats
| Founded | 1913 |
| Location | Sturgeon Bay, Door County |
| Dining Hours | Dinner only, opens daily around 5 PM |
| Known For | Prime rib, fish fry, bacon-wrapped scallops |
| Style | Classic Wisconsin supper club |
| Ambience | Warm, family-friendly, vintage setting |
| Special Events | Live music, group dining, holiday gatherings |
A True Wisconsin Supper Club Since 1913
Nightingale Supper Club traces its roots to over a century ago. What started as a simple roadside stop has grown into one of Door County’s most iconic dinner destinations. Generations of families have celebrated birthdays, anniversaries, and reunions within its walls. Despite modern updates, the supper club keeps its original personality: welcoming, unpretentious, and focused on serving hearty, memorable meals.
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Dining Experience with a Local Touch
The moment guests walk through the front door, they notice the classic supper club design. The dimmed lighting, red leather booths, and a central bar create an inviting, nostalgic atmosphere. Long-time staff often greet returning guests by name, which adds to the personal and relaxed experience.
Guests typically begin with a drink at the bar, a common supper club tradition. Wisconsin’s brandy old-fashioned is a house favorite. After a short wait, diners move to their tables where menus feature a wide range of classic dishes.
Signature Starters and Entrees
Nightingale’s dinner menu reflects both tradition and taste. Appetizers like cheese curds, shrimp cocktails, and loaded potato skins open the evening with bold flavor.
Top entrees include:
- Prime Rib: Offered in various cuts, tender and slow-cooked
- Ribeye Steak: Flame-grilled and full of flavor
- Bacon-Wrapped Scallops: Sweet, smoky, and perfectly seared
- Fish Fry: Walleye, cod, perch, and whitefish served crispy or broiled
- Pasta and Chicken Dishes: Sauced generously with home-style sides
Every meal includes soup or salad and a side, often a baked potato or mashed with gravy. Daily specials may include crab-stuffed salmon, pork ribs, or chef-inspired surprises.
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Friday Fish Fry and Saturday Prime Rib
The supper club tradition comes alive each weekend. On Fridays, the fish fry becomes a community gathering. Locals line up for golden perch, fried cod, and homemade tartar sauce. Served with rye bread, coleslaw, and potato choices, this meal is both comfort food and cultural ritual.
On Saturdays, the focus turns to prime rib. Cooked slow and sliced thick, it’s served with au jus and creamy horseradish sauce. For many, this dish defines the weekend.
Family-Friendly and Community-Oriented
Nightingale serves all ages. Families feel welcome, and children often find familiar options like grilled cheese or chicken tenders. Older guests appreciate the steady service and no-rush pace. Holiday meals, graduation dinners, and retirement celebrations fill the calendar each year.
Special events include live music evenings, especially during summer months. These casual performances add a layer of enjoyment without taking over the dining experience.
Trusted Staff and Consistent Service
A major part of Nightingale’s success comes from its staff. Many servers, cooks, and bartenders stay with the restaurant for years. This consistency means that food remains reliable, service is smooth, and guests return with confidence.
Even during busy seasons, the restaurant maintains its calm tone. Wait times may occur during peak weekends, but most agree the food and environment are worth it.
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Planning Your Visit
Guests planning to dine at Nightingale Supper Club should know a few key points:
- Open Hours: Dinner only, usually starting at 5 PM daily
- Reservations: Advised for weekends and holidays, walk-ins welcome when space allows
- Attire: Casual to smart-casual, depending on the evening
- Parking: On-site and free
- Large Groups: Accepted with prior booking
The restaurant does not serve lunch and closes during certain off-season dates in winter, so it’s wise to check ahead during colder months.
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FAQs
Prime rib and Friday night fish fry are the most popular and longstanding favorites.
No. It only serves dinner, starting around 5 PM.
Yes. Group reservations are welcome, but should be made in advance.
Some pasta and salad options may suit vegetarian guests, but the focus is mainly on meat and seafood.
Live music is featured mainly during summer weekends or special event nights.
Nightingale Supper Club continues to define what it means to enjoy a classic Door County meal. Its rich history, traditional supper club menu, and loyal customer base make it more than just a restaurant. It stands as a piece of local culture, offering guests a chance to slow down, eat well, and enjoy time with others.
Whether you visit for a Friday fish fry, a special family dinner, or just a night out with friends, Nightingale delivers an experience that stays true to its roots.