Just off the pines of Hazelhurst, a humble Northwoods tavern is stacking up national-caliber acclaim—one cheeseburger at a time.
Pickles Bar & Grill has become a pilgrimage for burger lovers chasing crisp-edged patties, soft buns, and craveable house-made sides.
With a 4.6-star rating and a 2024 Wisconsin Beef Council best-burger win, the buzz is more than small-town hype. Ready to plan your next delicious detour?
Award-Winning Cheeseburger Bragging Rights
Pickles Bar & Grill’s cheeseburger has earned serious hardware, including a 2024 nod from the Wisconsin Beef Council—fueling road-trip itineraries and burger bucket lists statewide. Guests rave about tender, perfectly cooked beef, melty cheese, and a soft, fresh bun that hugs every bite.
The balance is the magic: beef-forward flavor, clean seasoning, and toppings that enhance rather than overwhelm. Reviewers note the crisp edges and juicy center, with fries that complete the experience.
Whether you’re a purist or a topper fanatic, this cheeseburger meets the moment. Come hungry, leave converted—and tell your friends to get in line early.
The Northwoods Tavern Vibe
Step into a classic Northwoods tavern—wood-paneled warmth, friendly chatter, and a bar where locals and travelers swap trail stories. Pickles in Hazelhurst blends casual comfort with serious kitchen chops, inviting guests to settle in without pretense.
It’s the kind of place where a great burger pairs with an easy smile, where the atmosphere elevates simple pleasures. Reviewers call it a gem off the main drag, worth the nine-mile detour from Minocqua.
Expect relaxed service, cold drinks, and a lively hum as plates land and fries crackle. It’s not just a meal; it’s an Up North moment.
What Makes the Cheeseburger Shine
Great burgers are about details: a well-seasoned patty, a proper sear, and a bun that supports the journey. At Pickles, the cheeseburger hits those marks with precision.
The beef is tender and flavorful, cooked to order with a beautiful Maillard crust. Cheese melts seamlessly into every ridge. Add crisp lettuce, ripe tomato, and house sauces that amplify without masking. Fries—hand-cut, hot, and well-salted—complete the plate.
Guests also praise the soft, fresh bun that stays intact through the last bite. It’s an honest, expertly executed burger where every component matters—and earns that second visit.
House-Made Sides and Pickled Perks
Beyond the burger, Pickles’ sides have their own fan club. House-made fries are crisp outside and fluffy inside, while the potato chips—also made in-house—arrive golden and addictive.
Then there are the namesake delights: fried pickles, tangy house pickles, and sweet-heat cowboy candy that guests rave about. These accents add crunch, acidity, and a playful kick that brighten rich burgers. It’s clear the kitchen loves craft—balancing textures and flavors throughout the menu.
If you’re deciding between fries or chips, bring a friend and split both. Either way, you’ll understand why these sides inspire repeat visits.
Menu Highlights Beyond the Burger
While the cheeseburger steals the spotlight, Pickles showcases range with sandwiches like the smoked Reuben and specialty builds such as the Cowboy from Hell. Reviewers praise the tender meat, balanced toppings, and big, satisfying flavors.
Daily offerings lean hearty and straightforward, priced comfortably in the $10–20 range. The kitchen’s skill with smoke, seasoning, and crunch shows across the board. Whether you’re a classicist or an adventurous eater, there’s depth here—enough to plan multiple visits.
Pair with a cold beer and settle into the rhythm of the room. You’ll leave plotting what to try next.
Planning Your Visit
Find Pickles Bar & Grill at 5507 Co Rd Y, Hazelhurst, WI, tucked amid tall pines near 45.7322637, -89.7657585. Hours vary: open Wednesday and Thursday 11 AM–8 PM, Friday and Saturday 11 AM–9 PM; closed Sunday through Tuesday.
Expect peak times and consider arriving early for prime seating. Prices hover around $10–20, making it a high-value stop. Call +1 715-358-5738 to confirm hours or wait times.
If you’re exploring Minocqua or cruising the Northwoods, plan a quick detour—your future self (and taste buds) will thank you.
Tips for the Best Experience
Come hungry and customize your cheeseburger—add pickles, cowboy candy, or extra cheese to dial in your favorite bite.
If you care about doneness, clearly state your preference and confirm with your server. Split fries and house chips to sample both. Weekends can be busy, so arrive on the earlier side. Save room for fried pickles, and don’t skip the sauces.
If service is stretched during rush, patience pays off—the kitchen delivers. Most of all, soak in the Northwoods charm: friendly banter, clinking glasses, and a burger worth the miles.
What Locals and Travelers Say
Reviews paint a vivid picture: “best burger in the Northwoods,” “perfectly cooked,” and “lived up to the Best Burger rating.” Guests celebrate the house fries, pickles, and lively tavern atmosphere.
Some note rush-hour service hiccups—smart communication and timing help. Still, the consistent refrain is flavor and value, confirmed by a 4.6-star average over hundreds of reviews.
Travelers from Minocqua and beyond call it a must-stop; locals call it a keeper. If your road trips revolve around great burgers, Pickles Bar & Grill deserves a permanent pin on the map.