All for the Best — WI Venues Famous for Their Fare

Imagine you’ve chosen the most stunning Wisconsin venue with grand architecture, expansive event space, and superior service. Then imagine that the meal you serve in these magnificent surroundings is completely forgettable, or worse, absolutely awful? When choosing your event venue, why not focus on a space that is not only impressive, but known for serving only superior cuisine as well? Consider these Wisconsin venues famous for their fare:

The Venue:  Originally serving as the Grain Exchange in the old Chamber of Commerce building, the historic center opened its doors in 1880. With a truly breathtaking interior, the crowning jewel is the 10,000-square foot, three story, central room known for its frescos, stunning granite, limestone, sandstone, and 175-foot bell tower at the center of the room. The room radiates with the elegance and grandeur of a by-gone era and is an impressive space in which to host any event.

The Fare:  Bartolotta Catering + Events is the exclusive caterer for the Grain Exchange, providing four-star, restaurant quality food with superior service. From hors d’oeuvres of Bruschetta and Prosciutto and cheese, to a mouthwatering menu of buffets and stations, plated dinners, desserts and even gourmet food to go, the talented culinary staff makes this place a local favorite.

The Venue:  With ample space for as many as 1000 guests, the EEA interiors can be transformed from corporate to classic. Operating since 1953, multiple room options and open and airy layout can be decorated to suit your theme or style with everything from fairy lights to decorative draping.

The Fare:  The unique, one-of-kind space at the EAA Aviation Center demands that the quality of the food served be as superior as the surroundings. As such, EEA Aviation Center works exclusively with a select group of preferred caterers, including notable, award-winning chefs from Becket’s, Hilton Garden Inn, The Roxy, and Premier Waterfront Catering.

The Venue:  The iconic architect, Frank Lloyd Wright originally proposed the design for Monona Terrace in 1938, but his vision was not realized until 1997. The curvilinear gathering place links the shore of Lake Monona to the Wisconsin State Capitol. Stunning views of the lake, the downtown skyline, and the State Capitol dome can be enjoyed from the center’s crowning jewel, the 68,000-square foot rooftop garden.

The Fare:  Monona Catering is the exclusive catering partner for the Monona Terrace Convention Center. Their cuisine is renowned for its flavors and is created with organic and locally-sourced items.  Preparing your feast with the highest quality ingredients, Monona’s on-site kitchens ensure the food is hot and delicious when served.

The Venue:  Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, The Milwaukee County War Memorial Center was dedicated on Veteran’s Day, 1957. Designed by renowned architect, Eero Saarin, the classic modern structure features cantilevers that allow for breathtaking panoramic views from the interior. With meeting rooms, the memorial hall, or the outdoor plaza, the Memorial Center welcomes up to 300 of your guests for your event.

The Fare:  The Milwaukee County War Memorial Center partners with a select group of preferred caterers, including All Occasions Catering, Carl’s Catering, and Creative Catering to name just a few. All the caterers provide fine food, exceptional service and offer the experience of having previously catered events at the Center.

The Venue:  Accommodating up to 524 guests, the Florian Gardens Conference Center offers elegant décor in its three spacious ballrooms, all with views of the exquisite gardens. Rustic charm is evident throughout the Center along with ample meeting space and free parking.

The Fare:  On-site catering enables you to offer guests a wide range of cuisines and menu options. Choose from full-plated breakfasts, breakfast service a la carte, continental breakfasts or even breakfast buffets. Lunch and dinner choices range from casual salads, sandwiches, and wraps to more formal plated entrees.

The Venue:  The Marq Banquet Center boasts outdoor patios that can be accessed from the meeting rooms. The beautiful Garden Gazebo and Arbor Under the Willows are ideal for corporate events, with room to set up tents and outdoor exhibits.

The Fare:  The Marq’s experienced chefs offer a wide variety of menu options, from elegantly plated dinners to dinner buffets to family style dinners. Choose from existing menu options or work with the chef to design a custom menu specifically for your event. 

The next time you’re tasked with choosing a Wisconsin venue, be sure to ask, “What’s on the menu?” You’ll be glad you did.