Door County Wisconsin Restaurant With Goats On The Roof
Door County, Wisconsin, is famous for its picturesque landscape, quaint towns, and delectable cuisine. One restaurant that has become a must-visit for tourists and locals alike is Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant & Butik, known for its delightful menu and an unusual attraction - goats on the roof. Yes, you heard that right! Al Johnson's has live goats grazing on its roof, making it an unforgettable dining experience. In this article, we'll take a closer look at what makes this restaurant so special and why you should add it to your travel itinerary.
The Fascinating Story Behind Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant & Butik
Al Johnson's has been a part of the Door County food scene since 1949. The restaurant was founded by Al Johnson, a young Swedish immigrant who arrived in the United States with $50 in his pocket. In 1950, he purchased the restaurant from its original owners, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Al Johnson's has a unique ambiance and is famous for its Swedish cuisine. The restaurant's menu features traditional dishes like Swedish meatballs, lingonberry pancakes, and gravlax. It's also known for its homemade limpa bread, a sweet rye bread served warm with butter.
Al Johnson's has gained nationwide attention for its goat roof. The tradition of having goats on the roof began in 1973 when Al Johnson brought two goats to the restaurant to attract more customers. The goats soon became a beloved attraction and a part of the restaurant's charm.
What to Expect When Dining at Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant & Butik
When you visit Al Johnson's, expect to be transported to a Swedish village. The restaurant's interior is adorned with traditional Swedish decor, including colorful rosemaling and wooden Dala horses. The staff is dressed in traditional Swedish attire, adding to the authentic experience.
The real showstopper, however, is the goat roof. You can watch the goats from inside the restaurant, or if you're lucky, you may even get to see them climb up or down the ramp to the rooftop pasture.
When it comes to food, Al Johnson's menu has options for everyone. If you're not in the mood for Swedish cuisine, the restaurant also offers seafood, burgers, sandwiches, and salads. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable.
Tips for Visiting Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant & Butik
With its popularity, Al Johnson's can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season. To avoid long wait times, try visiting during the off-season or make a reservation beforehand.
When dining at Al Johnson's, don't forget to try the lingonberry pancakes or Swedish meatballs. If you have room for dessert, order the traditional Swedish princess cake, a light sponge cake layered with raspberry jam and custard, covered in marzipan.
Don't forget to take a stroll through the restaurant's Butik, where you can purchase Scandinavian gifts, souvenirs, and clothing. You can even take home a jar of lingonberry jam to remember your visit to Al Johnson's.
Conclusion
Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant & Butik is more than just a place to grab a bite to eat. It's an experience that combines delicious food, Swedish ambiance, and live goats on the roof. If you're planning a trip to Door County, be sure to add Al Johnson's to your list of must-visit spots. It's a dining experience unlike any other.