It's a grocery store. First get that into your head…read more After that, the reason it gets a 4, above all else, it has a liquor store inside it. Not a everyday grocery store beer selection of the mass produced everyday borings, better than that. Shelves upon shelves of beer, plus aisles of actually liquor, a great wine selection, some comically large bottles of select alcohol, you know, like a real liquor store. Then you cross the border on the floor and get in line like everyone else who just picked up their family groceries. And for this, I applaud them. Maybe it is a Wisconsin thing, maybe it is a Festival Foods thing. Either way, I love it.

This store has an amazing selection of prepared foods that are restaurant quality. The selection…read morevaried from traditional prepared foods to prime rib - it was flavorful and at a great price to boot! I even bought some items to freeze and bring home to Indiana!

I absolutely love Comma Café--and especially their slogan, "enjoy the pause." Cute, clever, and it…read morereally fits the vibe of the shop. I had the pleasure of meeting the owner, Lisa, who was so personable and welcoming. She shared a bit about her shop and even told me how she learned to make gelato from someone straight from Italy (definitely ask her about it--it's such a fun story!). Speaking of gelato--my $6 portion was huge. I'm so used to city prices and smaller servings, but here you really get your money's worth. They also run great specials; in August, for example, it was two beers for $4--unreal. If we'd been hungrier, I would've loved to try one of their handmade sandwiches too. On top of that, I had one of the best cold brews I've ever tasted--it got me "juiced," as we say. Between the warm atmosphere, generous portions, and Lisa's genuine hospitality, this is a gem of a spot. If I'm ever back in the area, Comma Café will definitely be a planned stop.

This is a charming little spot for lunch. I've been here a half dozen times over the past year and…read moreeverything was fresh, home made and served with a smile. Check hours to make sure they are open as they change with seasons.

Waupaca, Wi. This is a nice cozy setting with a very…read morerelaxed vibe. It's all about the coffee though, which is excellent. For a latte, we went with two shot 12 oz, with the milk held down about 3/4 inch. The result is a perfect latte. Rich and robust, the flavor of the roast is striking. I'm not sure why anyone would add a flavor to this delicious caffeinated beverage, but then that's just me. I like the old jazz coming from the speakers as opposed to some of the crap thrust upon us at other places.

Stopped by this small-town coffee shop while passing through the area. The atmosphere was quiet and…read morelow-key, which suited us fine. Staff weren't overly welcoming or chatty--no carried conversation or small talk--but they were polite and friendly enough. If you're looking for warm, high-energy service, this might not be the spot, but if you're okay with a more reserved vibe, it works. There was a bit of a wait for our drinks, which felt a little long considering we were the only customers being helped at the time. That said, the quality of the drinks made up for it. I had the lavender lemonade--super refreshing and light. My partner tried the orange cream chai and really enjoyed the flavor balance. Both drinks were thoughtfully made and tasty. That said, if I were in the area again, there's another local coffee shop I'd likely choose first--it had a more welcoming atmosphere and a similar drink quality. Still, this spot was a pleasant stop with creative options and might be just right for someone seeking a quieter, more laid-back experience.

ACOCA Cafe & Roastery -- Apparently Appleton got hipster while I was gone…read more Came back to my old stomping grounds for HS reunion week and somehow ended up having one of the most interesting breakfasts of the trip. ACOCA immediately gives off that independent coffeehouse/artsy/creative energy you don't necessarily expect when you're remembering the Appleton of your younger days. We all ordered the Bagels & Lox with salad, and I'm not gonna lie ~ that plate looked damn good. Fresh lox, colorful veggies, pickled onions, greens and an everything bagel. Add some quality coffee and you've got yourself a pretty solid morning. The space was spotless, the service was friendly, the drinks were good and the atmosphere was genuinely cool. But let's talk $$$. This was the priciest morning meal we had in Appleton, and one person in our group felt the price was a little high considering you have to put the sandwich together yourself, and only one of us was given a small ramekin of salad dressing accompanying our meal. Also we wish the bagel was slightly toasted instead of just a sliced everthing bagel. Still, I'd rather pay a little more occasionally for a place with personality than eat somewhere completely forgettable. ACOCA definitely has personality. Would I return? Absolutely!!! This is more my vibe for morning eats & cold/hot brew (Coffee/tea) that is Brews. Views. Food. Sometimes the journey takes you somewhere that doesn't involve beer.

Really awesome vibe in here. There's a lot of open space and really neat decor all over the walls…read more There is a ton of seating. What is really cool is up by the front they have some old wagon wheels that have been turned into tables. There are plenty of food items as well as pastries so no shortage on things to eat here. They also have a good variety of coffees from drip to pour over espresso. You name it. I got a blueberry muffin and a vanilla latte. The blueberry muffin is full of blueberries, super moist and delicious. The vanilla latte is spot on perfectly made. If you're in the area, I highly recommend coming over here.

It's a cute place with pretty good coffee. They have a drive thru which is another plus. Cookies…read moreare pretty yummy too. They lose a star only because the person who took my order didn't seem to understand their menu. I asked for a large black hazelnut iced coffee. The sign with all the flavored syrups was right behind her when she replied with " we only have French roast". I didn't feel like explaining so I just happily ordered a large black iced coffee then... To which she replied with "do you want any cream or milk in that?"....

Great little homey place with good coffee and donuts and pastries to die for. Have to be the best…read morepastries in the area and priced right! I would eat there every morning except for the effect on my waist line.

A small work group ordered paninis for lunch--they were all correct (I admit I was the annoying one…read morewho asked for substitutions) and still nice and warm by the time we picked up and got back to our conference room. The chips are baked ruffles and they threw and extra bag in--even if by accident, it was a nice surprise lol

We enjoyed our sandwiches. It was a very busy spot being Saturday at Mile of Music. We watched Ron…read moreArtis II with the Lawrence University chamber group and it was amazing. We also had gelato which was yummy.

Easily would come back! The space was clean and comfortable. Our coffees were made with care, yet…read moredelivered with speed, and they were incredible! If you're in the area it's definitely worth the stop!

I am a sucker for cute coffee shops on the bank of the Fox River…read more I am a sucker for a space filled with natural light, lush green plants and cozy furniture. I am a sucker for Insta worthy patios and outdoor seating. I am a sucker for a house made treats, fun twists on coffee and deliciously yummy food. I am a sucker for sweet midwestern hospitality and super sweet baristas. I am a sucker for peach lattes, cinnamon rolls and monkey bread. YUM. I am a sucker for great prices for great quality items. When recently in Appleton, we were suckers for this spot and will easily return! :)

Stoped by out of the blue looking for a bakery fresh donut. Did not have a large selection ended…read moreup. With turnovers and scones. Both very yummy!

Very friendly service and the doughnuts are exceptional! Very good prices! It's a family business…read morewith their homemade recipes and one of the oldest ovens in the state!