Door County, Wisconsin, is known for its scenic beauty, small-town charm, and unique culinary experiences. For over a decade, Wickman House stood at the heart of that food culture. It served farm-to-table meals in a warm, historic setting and gained a loyal following from visitors and locals. As of late 2023, Wickman House closed its doors, but its legacy continues through a fresh chapter.
In spring 2024, a new restaurant called Osteria Tre Tassi took its place, bringing new flavors, ideas, and energy to the same beloved space in Ellison Bay. This article explores the journey from Wickman House to Osteria Tre Tassi and explains why this location remains a top dining destination.
Wickman House Closed, Osteria Tre Tassi Now Shines in Door County
| Feature | Wickman House | Osteria Tre Tassi |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Ellison Bay, Wisconsin | Same location |
| Cuisine | American farm-to-table | Italian and Mediterranean |
| Status | Closed in late 2023 | Opened in spring 2024 |
| Known For | Seasonal menus, cocktails | Scratch-made pasta, local produce |
| Owners | Mike Holmes | Robin Brown, Joey Ouimet, Jack Gross |
| Setting | Vintage house, garden view | Preserved with refreshed decor |
The Legacy of Wickman House
Wickman House opened in 2012 and quickly became a favorite for those who appreciated seasonal dishes, local ingredients, and a cozy, welcoming setting. Located inside a restored century-old home, the restaurant served elegant yet simple meals. Its menus featured local meats, fresh seafood, and vegetables grown on-site or nearby.
Craft cocktails, thoughtful wine pairings, and peaceful garden views added to the dining experience. For over ten years, Wickman House defined Door County’s fine dining scene. In late 2023, it closed permanently, leaving behind warm memories and a respected name in the local food world.
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A New Chapter: Osteria Tre Tassi
The historic property reopened in spring 2024 as Osteria Tre Tassi, an Italian and Mediterranean-style restaurant. While the name and menu changed, the spirit of local sourcing, warm hospitality, and fresh flavor remained.
The new ownership team includes chef Robin Brown, manager Joey Ouimet, and investor Jack Gross. Together, they brought new life to the space, focusing on scratch-made pasta, classic Italian dishes, and a strong garden-to-table philosophy. Their goal is to respect the past while offering something new and exciting.
Design and Ambience
The building still feels like home. Original wood floors, large windows, and a timeless layout make the space comfortable and familiar. Only light updates were made, such as fresh paint and layout improvements. The peaceful outdoor garden still welcomes diners in the warmer months.
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Inside, guests find a blend of elegance and simplicity. The space works for romantic dinners, small gatherings, and relaxed nights out. The dining rooms feel cozy but never crowded, and the natural light adds charm.
Culinary Focus: Italy Meets Door County
Osteria Tre Tassi offers a mix of traditional and modern Italian dishes, inspired by fresh ingredients and coastal flavors. Everything is made from scratch, including the pasta, sauces, and sides.
Popular dishes include:
- Handmade pappardelle with a slow-cooked meat ragù
- Fresh Door County whitefish cooked with lemon and herbs
- Seasonal ravioli filled with burrata or vegetables from the garden
- Starters like warm focaccia, marinated olives, and grilled vegetables
Each plate reflects care, flavor, and balance. The menu changes with the seasons, depending on what’s growing in the on-site garden or available from local farms.
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Garden and Sustainability
The property includes a 1.5-acre garden, which supplies herbs, greens, and seasonal produce. This garden plays a key role in shaping the daily menu. The team behind Osteria Tre Tassi believes in respecting nature and minimizing waste.
By growing food on-site and supporting local producers, the restaurant keeps its footprint small and its food fresh. This sustainable approach continues the traditions first built by Wickman House.
Beverage Experience
Along with the food, Osteria Tre Tassi serves carefully crafted cocktails and a refined wine selection. Ingredients for the drinks include garden herbs, citrus, and homemade syrups. The cocktail menu offers both classics and original blends.
The wine list leans toward Italian and Mediterranean varieties, designed to pair well with the meals. Servers are trained to help guests choose a drink that matches their taste and food selection.
Service and Dining Experience
Dining here feels warm and thoughtful. The staff takes time to explain the menu, make recommendations, and ensure that every guest feels welcome. Meals arrive at a comfortable pace, allowing guests to enjoy every bite and conversation.
Reservations are encouraged, especially during summer weekends and fall colors season. The restaurant serves dinner Thursday through Monday and is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. While it focuses on evening service, the atmosphere remains relaxed, not overly formal.
Continuing a Culinary Tradition
Even though Wickman House has closed, the legacy of great food, local pride, and honest hospitality continues. Osteria Tre Tassi brings a new flavor and vision to the space, building on what made the property special in the first place.
For those who loved Wickman House, this new chapter offers a familiar setting with fresh experiences. For first-time visitors, it’s a chance to explore one of Door County’s best dining destinations in a beautifully reimagined way.
FAQs About Wickman House
1. Is Wickman House still open in Door County?
No, Wickman House closed permanently in 2023. It has been replaced by Osteria Tre Tassi.
2. What is Osteria Tre Tassi?
Osteria Tre Tassi is an Italian and Mediterranean restaurant that opened in spring 2024 in the same building that once housed Wickman House.
3. What kind of food does Osteria Tre Tassi serve?
It offers scratch-made pasta, seafood, and vegetable dishes using seasonal, local ingredients.
4. Who owns Osteria Tre Tassi?
The restaurant is run by a team including chef Robin Brown, manager Joey Ouimet, and investor Jack Gross.
5. Do I need a reservation to eat at Osteria Tre Tassi?
Reservations are highly recommended, especially during the busy tourist season in Door County.
Wickman House left a lasting mark on Door County’s food culture. Now, Osteria Tre Tassi steps in to carry the tradition forward. With homemade pasta, fresh produce, and a cozy garden setting, it provides a dining experience that feels both local and world-class.
Whether you’re planning a special occasion, a romantic date, or a casual evening with friends, this spot in Ellison Bay remains one of the county’s most delightful places to eat.
