Sip Local: 8 Places to Enjoy Cocktails and Wine in the Fox Cities

Sip, sip, hooray to the Fox Cities brewery and cocktail scene. Raise a glass to good times and good health surrounded by friends and family.

1. Mondo! on the River – Appleton - 425 W Water St, Appleton
You can’t beat the wine selection or the views at Mondo! on the River. Located along the Fox River, Mondo! is part wine bar, part wine shop. Owners Jane and David Oliver have carefully curated a wine list that even those with the most discerning palate will appreciate. Their menu is elevated, there’s something for every palate, and features locally sourced ingredients. Of course, there are pairing suggestions for each item.

2. Santé Wine Bar and Bistro - 108 W Wisconsin Ave, Neenah
Nestled in the heart of downtown Neenah, Santé is known for exceptional wines, artful cocktails, and delectable small plates. Winner of a 2023, 2024, and 2025 Best of Wine Spectator Restaurant award that recognizes restaurants with outstanding wine programs, Sante is a great place for curious drinkers, is anti-snobbery, and features local ingredients whenever possible.

3. Xe54: A Wine & Cocktail Lounge – 1350 W American Dr, Neenah

The cozy lounge at Xe54 welcomes you as you peruse their extensive wine list, craft cocktail offerings, or local beers. The perfect place to unwind with friends over a custom charcuterie board. Join them for themed trivia nights or wine tasting events. Soak in the sounds of smooth jazz as you sip on one of their monthly Pay it Forward cocktails.

4. Ambassador – 117 S Appleton St, Appleton

Located just off College Avenue, The Ambassador has the eclectic vibe everyone’s looking for. Sophisticated and unexpected cocktails are handcrafted to perfection. In addition to classic cocktails, The Ambassador features craft beers and a growing selection of bourbon.

5. Calaveras Fine Fusions - 511 W College Ave, Appleton

With over 50 hand-picked tequilas and mezcals, the folks at Calaveras are sure to find one that’s just right for you. Their passion and knowledge are reflected in every handmade cocktail or flight. Pair your favorite drink with a selection from their tapas menu. Not a tequila aficionado? Calaveras serves a variety of other alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Enjoy Open Mic night every Thursday.

6. 313 Dodge - 313 Dodge St, Kaukauna

313 Dodge offers a unique space with rotating featured cocktails that are available to enjoy in their space, on their heated, dog-friendly patio or to-go! Proudly serving all craft, Wisconsin beers on tap and serving a seasonal creative menu that uses fresh and local ingredients.

7. Cleo's Brown Beam - 203 W College Ave, Appleton

A trip to the Fox Cities wouldn’t be complete without stopping at Cleo’s Brown Beam Tavern, where it’s Christmas every day. Famous for their Dirty Snowball cocktail, you’ll delight in this dreamy milkshake-like concoction. Known for creative, spirit-forward cocktails, this is a place you don’t want to miss.

8. Kerrigan Brothers Winery - N2797 WI 55, Freedom

Family owned and operated since 2000, Kerrigan Brothers Winery produces wines crafted from a variety of Wisconsin-grown fruit; Door County cherries, cranberries from Merrill, and apples from Appleton.

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Bri Depies

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