Unearth The Voyage
Cheese curd fame in Wisconsin doesn’t stop at Milwaukee’s city limits, some of the most talked-about bites are sizzling in Eau Claire. Northern Tap House has locals and travelers buzzing with its bold spin on curds, wood-fired pizzas, and a craft beer lineup that keeps conversations flowing. With 2,300+ reviews and a steady 4.4-star rating, this relaxed spot pairs comfort-food classics with creative twists. If you’re curd-curious or a diehard devotee, this is the destination to taste, and debate, what Wisconsin cheese dreams are made of.
1. Signature Beer-Battered Aged Cheddar Curds
Northern Tap House’s signature “giant beer-battered aged cheddar” curds are the conversation starters of Eau Claire. These aren’t petite squeakers; they’re indulgent, shareable spheres with a shattering crunch and a molten cheddar center that oozes nostalgia and novelty. The batter nods to classic Midwestern beer heritage, delivering a malty aroma and amber hue. Dip them into the house sauce for a creamy, tangy counterpoint that cuts through richness. While purists may expect smaller Ellsworth-style curds, these bold orbs offer a bar-food twist that dares you to rethink the category. Order them fresh, eat them hot, and pair with a crisp lager. They’re the reason this stop sidesteps Milwaukee chatter and writes its own cheesy headline in Eau Claire.
2. Ellsworth State Fair-Style Curds Alternative
For traditionalists, Northern Tap House also serves Ellsworth curds—the bite-sized, fair-style classic many Wisconsinites expect. These smaller curds squeak, stretch, and crunch with that familiar light batter, giving a nostalgic nod to county fair tents and Friday night fish fries. They’re a great counterpoint to the signature giants, letting you run a side-by-side taste test at one table. Order with ranch or a zesty house dip to amplify the dairy sweetness. If you came seeking the state’s quintessential curd texture, this option keeps you grounded. It’s also ideal for sharing alongside wings or a burger, creating a well-rounded pub spread. The friendly staff will steer you right if you want to compare styles and discover your definitive Wisconsin bite.
3. Craft Beer Pairings That Make Curds Sing
Cheese curds deserve a worthy pour, and Northern Tap House’s rotating craft taps deliver. A crisp pilsner slices through fried edges, a citrusy IPA lifts the cheddar’s richness, and a malty amber complements the beer batter’s caramel notes. Ask your server for a flight to explore complementary styles—start light, then build to hop-forward. The tap list balances regional favorites with seasonal releases, making each visit a new pairing adventure. Craft beer nuance enhances texture, resets the palate, and lets you keep snacking without fatigue. If you’re curd-touring Wisconsin, document pairings and compare results; Eau Claire’s lineup stands up to bigger-city scenes. The synergy here proves why pub grub and craft beer remain one of the Midwest’s most reliable culinary duos.
4. Beyond Curds: Smashburgers, Wings, and Wood-Fired Pizza
Yes, come for the curds—but stay for the breadth. Northern Tap House builds craveable smashburgers with lacy, griddled edges and melty cheese. Boneless wings arrive hand-cut, with sauces ranging from sticky garlic gochujang to classic buffalo. Wood-fired pizzas emerge with blistered bubbles and a crisp, smoky bite—perfect with mushrooms, sautéed onions, and garlic oil. The menu is a crowd-pleaser for mixed groups, making it easy to satisfy everyone while you center the visit on curds. Portion sizes encourage sharing and sampling across categories. Pair a pizza with a beer flight and curds for a balanced, indulgent spread that shows off the kitchen’s strengths beyond the headline snack.
5. Insider Tips: Timing, Freshness, and Seating
To experience curds at their best, aim for peak freshness: dine-in when the kitchen’s humming and eat them hot. Northern Tap House opens at 11 AM daily, closing at 10 PM most nights and 11 PM on Friday and Saturday—plan around rushes for quicker service. Booths and high-tops provide a casual, game-friendly vibe with TV views. If you’re exploring beer pairings, request a seat with good server access for refills. Mention whether you want signature giants or Ellsworth-style so expectations align. For groups, start with a double order of curds to avoid reordering after the first basket vanishes. Freshness and timing elevate the crunch and keep the cheese luxuriously gooey.
6. What Locals and Travelers Are Saying
With over 2,300 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, Northern Tap House sparks lively debate—in the best way. Visitors rave about the massive curds, smashburgers, friendly service, and wood-fired pies. Some out-of-towners expect traditional curds and are surprised by the giant beer-battered version; staff can guide you to the Ellsworth option. When service is humming, beer flights and hot baskets create a memorable evening. Compliments often spotlight the fun atmosphere and value-driven pricing. Even mixed reviews reinforce one truth: this is a destination that inspires opinions—and repeat visits—because the menu dares to be different while honoring Wisconsin favorites.
7. Plan Your Visit: Hours, Prices, and Contact
Find Northern Tap House at 5020 Keystone Crossing, Eau Claire, WI 54701—easy access, plenty of parking, and a relaxed entrance. Hours run 11 AM–10 PM Sunday through Thursday, and until 11 PM on Friday and Saturday. Expect approachable pricing (roughly $10–$20) across apps, burgers, wings, and pizzas. Call +1 715-895-8226 for wait times, large-group accommodations, or to confirm tap selections. Check the latest menu and specials at northerntaphouse.com. If you’re curd-focused, ask directly about the signature giants versus Ellsworth fair-style to match your expectations. With clear timing and a quick call, you’ll optimize freshness, seating, and pairings for the tastiest cheese-curd experience.
8. Why Eau Claire’s Curds Are Stealing Milwaukee’s Spotlight
Milwaukee may dominate the skyline, but Eau Claire is punching above its weight in curd credibility. Northern Tap House’s dual approach—giant beer-battered aged cheddar and classic Ellsworth—gives diners a choose-your-own-curd-adventure that sparks conversation. The craft beer program accentuates flavors, while a full menu turns a curd pilgrimage into a full evening. Add consistent hours, fair prices, and a welcoming staff, and you’ve got a reliable stop on any Wisconsin food trail. Critics and fans alike keep the buzz alive, which only fuels curiosity. If you’re chasing the state’s most talked-about curds, start here, taste both styles, and decide which version deserves the crown.
