Welcome! Experience Cultural Influences Right Here in Door County

By Danielle Braff

This winter, embark on a journey around the globe — without leaving Door County! Discover the customs, cuisine, and timeless traditions brought by immigrants from Europe and beyond.

Inhabited for over 11,500 years, Door County was originally home to eight different Indigenous groups who fished, hunted, and thrived in the woodlands for centuries. French explorer Jean Nicolet arrived in 1634, paving the way for a wave of European settlers in the mid-19th century. Today, the echoes of these rich traditions come alive in Door County’s warm, colorful shops, savory dishes, and festive celebrations found throughout the county.

Where to Dine

The best way to experience Door County’s international heritage is by tasting it.

Swedish Food

Drömhus is Swedish for “dream house,” and the Sturgeon Bay restaurant lives up to its name with its intimate space — it was built in 1900 as a chapel — and its comfort-food menu. Start with the lingonberry and baked brie, then dive into a creative pizza, like the one topped with smoked Gouda, apples, bacon, and honey.

Craving Swedish pancakes? Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant & Butik in Sister Bay serves thin pancakes topped with lingonberries all day long. You’ll also find meatballs and a menu of sandwiches and burgers. Don’t forget to explore the boutique, stocked with Swedish clothing, candy, books, and more.

Asian Food

Sister Bay’s Fat Belly serves classic Asian flavors with a unique twist. The flavorful sushi, ramen, and poke bowls are crafted with locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Pair your meal with a local craft beer, a glass of wine, or sake. Indoor seating is inviting and welcoming while the outdoor space boasts picnic tables and yard games, making it an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy a casual meal. With carryout and online ordering available, Fat Belly makes it easy to savor a taste of Door County.

Italian Food

Osteria Tre Tassi in Ellison Bay blends Italian culinary traditions with Door County’s local bounty. Housed in the historic 11976 Mink River Road building, this fine dining farm-to-table restaurant embraces sustainability by using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, many of which are grown on-site in the restaurant's outdoor garden. The rustic yet elegant décor creates an inviting atmosphere for family gatherings, romantic dinners, or special celebrations.

Irish Food

Kitty O’Reillys Irish Pub in Sturgeon Bay is famous for its loaded Bloody Mary, which is essentially a drink and an appetizer in one. If you’re still hungry and want to sample traditional Irish fare, try their Reuben sandwich, corned beef and cabbage, or a pint of Guinness.

German Food

In Sturgeon Bay, The Mill Supper Club combines classic supper club fare with a German twist. Burgers are served on pretzel buns, and entrées come with a side of kaese spaetzle (pasta with onions and cheese).

Belgian Food

Belgian Delight in Brussels is beloved for its old-fashioned, home-cooked specialties and hearty breakfasts (Belgian waffles, anyone?). Be sure to try a slice of traditional Belgian pie or the trippe sandwich, made with pork sausage, cabbage, and nutmeg.

Where to Shop

Take some international goods home with you.

Celebrate Year-Round

Step into Sister Bay’s Tannenbaum Holiday Shop for Christmas ornaments and home décor, including German nutcrackers, smokers, and candle displays. You’ll also find items for nearly every other holiday you can imagine.

A Touch of Dublin

Visit O’Meara’s Irish House for all things Celtic, including Aran wool sweaters, soda bread mixes, Nicholas Mosse pottery, and more. For a truly unique experience, book a stay in the cozy B&B cottage loft located above the Fish Creek shop to enjoy genuine Irish hospitality.

Colorful Imports

Fish Creek’s eclectic shop, Castle Art, specializes in fine henna from Pakistan and is packed with treasures like majestic Turkish lamps, vibrant saris from India, Thai mats made from recycled plastic, and artwork by local creatives.

Where to Play

This winter season, celebrate Door County’s multicultural heritage, then plan a return trip for more festivities throughout the year.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade – March, Sturgeon Bay
Dress in your finest green and join the town in a bit o’ Irish cheer. Local restaurants offer live music and Irish fare specials to keep the celebration going.

Maifest – May, Jacksonport
Celebrate the arrival of spring with a traditional maypole dance, parade, fireworks, fun runs, children’s games, and live music at this German-inspired festival.

Fyr Bal Festival – June, Ephraim
Welcome summer and burn out the winter witch at this celebration of Scandinavian heritage, featuring crafts, music, bonfires, and fireworks.

Belgian Days – July, Brussels
Honor the Belgian immigrants who settled here in the 1850s with a festival celebrating their rich heritage.

Belgian Kermiss – August, Brussels
Enjoy a multigenerational fall harvest festival in Southern Door County, complete with music, dancing, and Belgian delicacies like booyah stew and jutt (cooked cabbage).