Where should we eat? Sound familiar? Whenever I’m traveling, that’s the first question I ask.

And I bet it’s one you ask too.

If you’re currently visiting Bayfield you may even be asking yourself, “What are the best restaurants in Bayfield right now?”

Without a doubt, Bayfield has entered one of its quieter months. The excitement of summer and Bayfield’s famous apple festival have died down.

Some of Bayfield’s businesses have closed for the season. There are signs on the doors reading, “Thank you for a fabulous season. We look forward to seeing you in 2023.”

Some businesses have closed temporarily to give a much-needed break to owners after the summer and fall rush. Plus the chance to catch up on some overdue cleaning and maintenance.

But other businesses keep their doors open, greeting visitors looking for a quieter Bayfield experience.

One question we get time and time again from guests staying at Seagull Bay in November is:

“What restaurants are open?”

This week we’re sharing the best restaurants still open in November.

Where to eat Breakfast and Lunch in Bayfield in November

Wonderstate Cafe in Bayfield

Start your day off in downtown Bayfield sipping your favorite style of coffee as the sun creeps its way into Bayfield’s only coffee shop.

Wonderstate Cafe is one of our favorite restaurants to eat breakfast, no matter what time of the year it is.

They feature:

• A full coffee and tea menu
• Mouth-watering artisan baked goods
• Bagel sandwiches
• Delicious fruit smoothies
• Healthy Grain Bowls

Wonderstate Cafe is a cozy place to sit back and watch our little town wake up.

Cafe Coco – Artisan Bakery and Good Eats in Washburn

Cafe Coco has been a favorite local restaurant serving breakfast and lunch since 2009.

Owner and pastry chef Noreen Ovadia Wills has tantalized our taste buds with bakery classics like made-from-scratch cinnamon rolls, scones, and flakey turnovers with seasonal fruit filling. And has introduced us to favorites like delicious babka and kolache.

Although pastry may be her passion, Noreen has created an eclectic menu filled with savory breakfast and lunch dishes. From American favorites to Banh Mi, there’s something for everyone. Cafe Coco also offers a variety of gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.

But don’t skip the soup. Noreen’s homemade soups are served with fresh homemade bread. These soups are transformational, especially on a chilly November afternoon.

Starlit Kitchen Carry-out Cuisine in Bayfield

Starlit Kitchen is a secret gem found in a tiny shop around the corner from Howl Downtown on 1st street.

Small in size but bursting with flavor, Starlit Kitchen serves:

• Rich soups
• Mega-stacked sandwiches
• Bursting burritos

All menu items are made with local and organic ingredients.

Designed for the person on the go, you will not sacrifice flavor or your health when ordering from Bayfield’s “fast food” restaurant.

Our Favorite Dinner Restaurants in Washburn

Washburn is a short 10-minute drive from Seagull Bay on south highway 13. Several restaurants stay open year-round. Your options expand when venturing to the town’s next store – from pizza restaurants to a bar and grill and a new Mexican restaurant.

Here are two favorite restaurants we recommend time and time again.

Dalou’s Bistro – Home of Wood-Fired Pizzas in Washburn

Dalou’s will make our list of best restaurants every time, no matter the time of year. Dalou’s has been a long-standing favorite to all.

Chef and owner Dale Hansen and Lois Stensvad have labored and loved this most popular restaurant. Together they have created a cult-like following of locals called “Dalunatics.”

Whether it’s your first time or your 587th time, Dalou’s won’t disappoint. Scratch-made everything from crusts, sauces, sausages, and vinaigrettes.

And let’s not forget Lois’s unforgettable desserts.

• Freshly churned gelato
• Tiramisu
• Chocolate tortas
• Key lime pie

We promise you’ll walk away with a memorable meal every time.

Good Thyme Restaurant in Washburn

Good Thyme Restaurant in Washburn bridges the gap between casual and fine dining. Their upscale atmosphere sets the mood to have you sit back and relax while being comfortable in your favorite pair of jeans.

On the menu, you’ll find duck, mussels, and steak shared with Wisconsin cheese curds and their famous “All You Can Eat Fish Fry.”

Good Thyme offers a truly enjoyable dining experience. Whether you’d like to commune with the locals while sitting at the copper-top bar or experience a more intimate dining experience with white tablecloths and a tall glass of wine.

Dining in Bayfield, WI, in November 2023

Lakeside Dining at The Bayfield Inn

Located on the shore of Lake Superior the Bayfield Inn’s Lakeside Dining Room offers panoramic views of the Bayfield City Harbor.

Chef Duey has crafted a menu of classic comfort food and contemporary cuisine reminiscent of your favorite steak restaurant. That’s one of the many reasons The Bayfield Inn makes it on our best restaurants in Bayfield list.

Menu items feature freshly caught fish out of Lake Superior, seafood, steaks, and more.

Old Rittenhouse Inn Landmark Restaurant

This is where victorian and gourmet meet to offer casual elegance and a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

The Old Rittenhouse Inn is an 1890s victorian mansion perched above Bayfield’s main street. It offers a unique dining experience not found anywhere else in the Bayfield area.

The Old Rittenhouse Inn Landmark Restaurant offers both an ala carte menu and a curated 5-course dining experience.

All menu items are homemade and feature seasonal and locally sourced ingredients when available. Accompanied by a full bar menu, victorian decor, and cozy fireplaces, The Rittenhouse Inn Landmark Restaurant will leave you with an unforgettable dining experience.

Stay and Dine in Bayfield in November

Come to Bayfield in November and fall in love with the quiet. During this time of year, you’ll experience unobstructed views of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands.

Slow down and wander the streets to jump-start your holiday shopping. Or hike along creeks, Lake Superior, and sandstone cliffs on uncrowded trails. And, of course, eat delicious food at some of our best restaurants in Bayfield and Washburn.

Take a weekend to get away from it all, and let us help you experience a vacation that’s truly relaxing at Seagull Bay.

BOOK NOW to reserve your room at Seagull Bay Lakeside Motel. Located on the edge of Lake Superior, our 1940s-style motel is filled with old-school charm and modern touches.

We look forward to greeting you!

Mollie, Isaac, Axel, Ridge, and Banks

QUICK LINKS:

Bayfield Cafe – Wonderstate Coffee

Cafe Coco – Washburn

Starlit Kitchen Bayfield Wisconsin

DaLou’s Bistro

Good Thyme Restaurant, Washburn, WI – Reservations Encouraged.

Lakeside Dining Room | Dinner in Bayfield, WI

Old Rittenhouse Inn