Dining al Fresco
Outdoor options abound for summer-loving diners by Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT
One of the most pleasurable summer activities is having a great meal while dining outdoors on a beautiful day. In the southern Wisconsin area, there are many opportunities to dine al fresco where one can enjoy the ambience of the beautiful scenery with a lakefront view or a quiet sequestered patio. This year being outdoors and enjoying time with friends and family has a special meaning. After several months of social isolation, while trying to control the coronavirus pandemic, everyone is looking for some safe and enjoyable social interaction. If you are ready to journey out and enjoy a tasty meal with family or friends, while soaking up the summer sunshine, here are a few of Spirit magazine’s favorite places for outdoor dining.
MARS RESORT
W4098 S. Shore Drive Lake Geneva, WI • 262-245-5689
Located on the south shore of Lake Como, Mars Resort has been a favorite
place for great food, unique drinks and a beautiful lake view. Inside dining is in the traditional Wisconsin supper club fashion. Known for their special Manhattans and Old Fashioneds, which were so popular in the supper club era, many diners begin with a cocktail reminiscent of the past. Inside a panoramic view of the lake can be enjoyed, as there are windows on three sides of the building. A huge rectangular bar looks out onto the lake and local pianist Will Ulrich entertains diners on Fridays at the separate piano bar. From Thursday to Sunday, diners are often asked if they would enjoy an afterdinner cruise on the lake. If there are 10 people interested they will be given a ride on the Mars Resort 45-foot Pontoon boat – a relaxing way to end the evening and enjoy the beauty of the lake. The outside dining area is where the true beach feeling is enjoyed by visitors. With three decks of seating on three sides of the building, there is a marvelous view of the water and sunsets. The front outside deck just holds four tables. Here the full Mars Resort menu is served. The other two decks are the more casual beachfront style, offering a special
beach menu. There are several choices offered on this menu. “The favorite always seems to be the ribs,” shared owner Scott Pohl. “The grilled jumbo shrimp are another popular choice. Each basket is served with chips and cole slaw.” Outside seating is first-come, first-served. According to Pohl, if you see an empty table, it is yours, no reservations needed. Weekends feature live music with a variety of local musicians entertaining the diners on Saturday from 4 to 7 p.m. and on Sunday from 3 to 6 p.m. They play a variety of calming and relaxing types of music. The Mars Resort Pontoon is also available as a rental for private parties. The boat, which holds up to 30 guests, can be rented for $295 for one hour or $495 for two hours. An ala carte menu serving pasta, shrimp or other items can be arranged on the boat for an additional fee. Or one can just order a beverage bar to enjoy on the cruise. Tables have been placed to encourage social distancing and both chairs and tables are sanitized between use. Mars resort is open from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily
To really enjoy the beach feeling at Mars Resort, consider a ride on the 45-foot pontoon boat for a complete view of Lake Como. COURTESY OF MARS RESORT Spirit of Geneva Lakes
SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES
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