Exploring Eau Claire’s North Side, it’s easy to see why this neighborhood is a rising star for local food lovers. Tucked away north of the Chippewa River, the North Side provides an authentic taste of Wisconsin—literally. Beyond its friendly streets and close-knit vibe, you’ll find cozy diners, hip cafés, heritage bakeries, and unpretentious joints where comfort food reigns. Whether you’re after flaky pastries at sunrise or barbecue when the sun goes down, the North Side serves up flavors that keep both locals and visitors coming back.
Main Street Classics: Comfort and Community
Much of the North Side’s culinary charm clusters around the intersection of Birch Street and North Hastings Way, a hub for everything from easy breakfasts to late-night bites.
- Egg Roll Plus (1611 Bellinger St.)
- A longtime North Side favorite, Egg Roll Plus is famous for its enormous, crave-worthy egg rolls—savory, perfectly crisp outsides with a rich pork-and-veggie filling. This spot is a local legend for Laotian and Hmong comfort food at wallet-friendly prices ($-$$). Order the pho, a steaming noodle soup layered with flavor, or the spicy chicken wings for something bold and memorable.
- *Why go?* Family-owned atmosphere, quick service, and a menu perfect for groups.
- Charly’s Market Deli and Café (1419 Birch St.)
- Equal parts modern convenience store and community deli, Charly’s is the lunch break hero of the North Side. Their sandwiches, piled high with premium meats and Wisconsin cheese, keep regulars lining up. Try the turkey club or classic Italian sub—both feel like an upgrade from your usual grab-and-go fare. Sandwiches and salads generally run under $10.
- *Why go?* Family-run, friendly staff, and hearty portions with a local touch.
Bakery Finds and Morning Musts
Start your day on the North Side with a serious pastry game. These bakeries and cafés serve up more than just caffeine—they create neighborhood rituals.
- Bohemian Ovens Northside Bakery (1928 N. Oxford Ave.)
- Known for: Poppy seed kolache, sourdough breads, and nut rolls that channel European grandmothers’ kitchens. The scent alone lures walkers down Oxford Ave., especially in the morning. Treat yourself to a gooey caramel roll or rustic rye ($-$$).
- *Why go?* Scratch-made, local ingredients, and vintage-bakery charm.
- The Living Room Coffee House (2006 Cameron St.)
- With its mismatched couches and neighborhood buzz, The Living Room is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a North Side gathering place. Their espresso drinks are expertly crafted, but don’t miss out on the housemade scones or the cult-favorite cinnamon swirl bread. Coffee, tea, and pastries range from $2 to $7.
- *Why go?* Creative vibe, local art on the walls, and the friendliest bakers in town.
Fast Bites, Big Flavor: Food Trucks and Casual Eats
When you’re craving fast bites or a spontaneous food adventure, the North Side never disappoints. Food trucks and casual eateries often pop up near the old railroad crossing on Galloway Street or parked at local breweries.
- Taqueria La Picante (usually at 2020 Birch St. during lunch/dinner)
- For authentic Mexican tacos and burritos, La Picante’s truck is tough to beat. Their al pastor is juicy, packed with tropical flavor, and served in fresh, soft corn tortillas. Most items are $2–$8, making it easy to sample the menu.
- *Why go?* Authenticity, friendly service, and the best street tacos on this side of the river.
- Smoky’s North BBQ (pop-up style, check their social media for spots)
- Hidden gem alert! When you see the Smoky’s smoker rolling near Boyd Park on a Friday or Saturday night, pull over for slow-cooked brisket and tangy, secret-recipe sauces. Portions are hearty, and everything is smoke-kissed.
- *Why go?* Authentic BBQ with a North Side twist—ribs, brisket, and sides that rival the South.
Hidden Gems: Only-in-North Side Eats
Some spots cater almost exclusively to neighborhood regulars—until you discover them and immediately become a convert.
- Ray’s Place (838 Water St.)
- An old-school Wisconsin tavern, Ray’s Place actually lies on the edge of the North Side but worth the detour. Find classic Friday fish fries, locally brewed beer, and giant baskets of cheese curds. It’s not fancy ($$); it’s just real, honest-to-goodness good.
- *Why go?* True “Up North” experience and a great place to watch Packers games.
- Kountry Kettle Café (1802 Princeton St.)
- This homespun café serves the best biscuits and gravy in town—no exaggeration. Breakfasts come with heaping hash browns, and lunch sandwiches are big enough to split. Daily specials (under $10) keep the menu fresh but comforting.
- *Why go?* Old-fashioned hospitality and killer homemade pies.
Local Traditions and Food Festivals
The North Side isn’t just about individual eateries. Stop by during summer to enjoy the community’s food festivals—many hosted around Mount Simon Park and Boyd Park—where you can sample fried cheese curds, brats, and mini donuts from local vendors. The North Side Farmer’s Market on Bellinger St. is a Saturday-morning staple, brimming with farm-fresh produce and specialty bakers like “Granny’s Hearth.”
The North Side: Eau Claire’s Most Delicious Secret
While the North Side of Eau Claire might not boast the white-tablecloth dining of downtown, it’s perfect if you want real food, made by locals who take pride in every bite. The mix of heritage recipes, new food trucks, and gathering places makes the neighborhood a culinary adventure for everyone—families, solo diners, and anyone seeking genuine flavor.
Next time you’re on the hunt for an inspired breakfast, a quirky food truck lunch, or comfort food with history, point yourself north of the river. Friendly, flavor-packed, and never pretentious—the North Side’s food scene is Eau Claire’s best-kept secret.