The atmosphere was classy and unique. The bartender was super friendly, the drinks were well…read morecrafted, and the prices aren't super high. Tucked away from the crowded college street, it's nice to wander off the beaten path to try this hole in the wall.

They make a mean sazarac. Hipster vibe but not trying to hard. Good hang. Music was a bit techno…read morefor my taste I'm more of a meters guy if when enjoying a Nola cocktail. Great service.

If you want a unique and intimate experience in Appleton, this place is next level.With only 14…read moreseats in the entire restaurant you are the focus in this small plate restaurant. With rotating, seasonally adjusted menus, we felt like there was something for every palate. Order what you like or do what we did and order it all. Lovely!

This was the best meal I've had in YEARS. Also the best dirty martini I've ever had, hands down…read more The service was excellent and the staff was so friendly. The food was soooo good. It's very cozy in there so be prepared to sit literally right next to someone you don't know, but it was fine. Also not as expensive as I would have thought...for two of us, we got 5 items, plus a dessert, 2 beers, a glass of rosé and the martini, and it was only $165.

I don't think I could love this place any more if I tried! We were staying in Appleton for a game…read moreup at Lambeau, and we found Cleo's just wandering the streets looking around. The painted window saying "Home of the Dirty Snowball" absolutely piqued my interest! LOL! Actually, it was that, plus the two giant nutcracker decorations out front that caught my eye. I'm a fan of (Christmas) holiday decorations, so I wanted to see what else they had, after spying some string lights through the window. Inside, it's like a wonderland of holiday cheer! Lights and ornaments and decorations everywhere! Sitting at the bar under the lights, I really felt like I'd discovered some secret bar under the Christmas tree! The staff were friendly, helpful, and quick with the libations! Kind of that "keep it real" attitude, but not in the rude way... in the honest and up front way! There is no food to speak of, save for a Chex-pub mix blend, but the drinks are why you want to visit! The famous Dirty Snowball is like a shake, but without ice cream, made with cocoa and related liqueur flavors (I can't remember what-all is in it, but it's GOOOOOOOD!). I highly recommend it! I also tried the Cleo's Trio, which is one part Dirty Snowball, one part Brandy Old Fashioned, and one part Suffering Bastard, I think? Not in the same glass! But, more like a flight. You get a little taste of Wisconsin or at least Appleton. Each drink is basically a full version, though, so you might need only one! I don't know what your favorite bar looks like, but if I lived in Appleton, this one would be mine. I would be in there at least once a week, if for no other reason the ambiance and the company. Great people, great drinks, and a legacy for holiday décor that I hope lives on forever!

Stopped because someone suggested this place to us. Cool Christmas lights leave a warm red glow…read morethat gives the bar an intimate cozy feel. Love the dim lighting as it feels like a place I could stay forever Service is okay. And we are asking for nearby food recommendations

Commodore Club is a newer establishment in the downtown Appleton area. There are not many cocktail…read morelounges in Appleton and Commodores is one of the firsts to fill that gap. It's trendy with a more upscale vibe vs other comparable places like Cleo's and Deja Vu. The drinks are carefully curated with thought behind each one's concept. The bartenders are knowledgeable and service is typically fast. This has quickly turned into our go to spot for a drink or two when in town.

Food, atmosphere and service all exceeded our expectations. It was exceptional. Highly recommend…read morethem!

Walking into Author's Kitchen + Bar in Appleton, WI feels like stepping into a warm memory. The…read moremoment we opened the door, the creak of the original wooden floors greeted us alongside the cheerful hum of a bustling kitchen. Laughter rang from somewhere behind the counter, a sound that immediately set the tone for a visit rooted in hospitality and heart. Kailin welcomed us with a smile that matched the inviting aroma wafting from the kitchen. After guiding us to our table, we settled into the comfort of the cozy dining room, accompanied by the subtle percussion of footsteps on those charming old floors. Within moments, our server appeared, effortlessly balancing warmth and efficiency as they presented a glass of fresh-brewed iced tea, beads of condensation catching the afternoon light, and a steaming mug of coffee rich with the scent of roasted beans. We began our lunch with a bowl of tomato cream soup. It arrived piping hot, its vibrant color promising comfort. The first spoonful delivered on that promise: velvety and rich, with a gentle heat balanced by a quiet sweetness, each bite coating the palate in layers of flavor. Before we could fully finish savoring the soup, our empanadas made their entrance. Today's lineup included cheese and quinoa, chicken and cheese, and beef. The empanadas were a feast for the senses--golden, flaky crusts that crunched delicately beneath the fork, releasing steam fragrant with seasoned fillings. Each bite was a perfect contrast of textures: the crisp pastry giving way to molten, well-seasoned centers. The trio of sauces elevated the experience--the truffle aioli luxuriously earthy, the tomato cream sauce echoing the soup's comforting warmth, and a third option adding a playful zip. From the first creak of the floorboards to the last satisfying bite, the meal at Author's was a five-star journey. It wasn't just service; it was service from the heart, guided by intuition and a genuine love for the craft. In a world of transactional dining, Author's stands apart as an experience where every sensory detail is curated with care.

My friends and I went here after grabbing dinner across the street. The atmosphere is amazing with…read morethese cute little booths that offer more privacy. I love getting mock tails here since they offer Ritual zero-proof tequila in their Pa"no"mas. Unfortunately, the night we went(a Saturday), there was only one bar tender at 7pm and so we had to wait 30 minutes for 3 drinks. I will be back, but hopefully they are better staffed!

Absolutely appalling experience. The staff were ignorant and aggressive, and refused to allow a…read moredisabled veteran to enter with their service animal. That kind of treatment is unacceptable and raises serious concerns about compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. A service animal is not a pet or a matter of convenience--it is essential support for its handler. The staff's conduct showed a shocking lack of respect for both people with disabilities and the veterans who have served this country. Please, please support veterans and people with disabilities by choosing not to patronize this establishment.

There are two cocktail lounges in the Fox River Valley that you cannot miss…read more The first is Cleos - downtown Appleton The other first is Michelle's Saint James Cocktail Lounge Outstanding cocktails - and by outstanding - I mean one to many and you will be out standing in a hay field talking to Harvey...you know "The Rabbit". Ambiance A++ Service A++ Cocktails A++

Owner(and bartender) - 5/5 Drinks - 5/5…read morePopcorn - 6/5 (kettle corn) This place is great, comfortable, and has a terrific atmosphere. The owner is so sweet and works very hard! Terrific place every time I've attended.

Superbly super place! Best/most unique decor of any bar not only on the ave but also in Appleton…read more Everytime Ive gone here my ears have been over joyed with the buzz of 80s/90s music gems playing throughout the bar/patio! The beer garden/patio area is beautiful and one of a kind. Hidden gnomes and lawn decorations are perfectly displayed on the patio. Wood tables and chairs make for an authentic and fun feel outside. Ive never had a bad drink, bad bartender, or bad time here!

Taylor was a great bar tender, and she can make a great old fashioned. I would go back again. Thank…read moreyou Taylor

I think this is my first time on yelp reviewing a bar, so yay!…read more Atmosphere: It is a bit dark in here, and the front entrance is very small, we almost missed it. There is a bar in the front room and there are 3 rooms total with machines to play. Pinball up front and center, just the way I like it. Service: Great daily drink and token specials. Our bartender was really awesome, and patient since I was a noob and it was my first time there. The only thing I can think of for improvement in this facility is hand sanitizer stations, one per room. Flu season is upon us and everyone in here is touching the machines. I had my trusty hand sanitizer in my purse so I was okay, but I think it'd be a nice addition to the place since they don't take up much room. Looking forward to coming back here.

Nice selection of pinball machines that we spent most of our time here trying to conquer. We always…read morelove Pac-Man and the old school games we grew up with I k know my photos stink but still have to share them with you lol

Perfect small venue for a concert! They had a great deal of seating & the floor right in front of…read morethe stage was open for standing & dancing. The sound was very good. It was mixed well as I've read from other reviewers. Bar staff were nice & service was fast. Look forward to coming back again for another show.

great staff. quiet listening hall during performances, better performers playing original music.read more