I've been here twice now and had similar but different experiences. This restaurant is in an old Mexican restaurant location and not much updating was done in between so the ambience is a little incongruous. The first time I was there I had the smokehouse melt and it was pretty good. Overall it wasn't as flavorful as I expected from the menu description but it wasn't overly disappointing, either. The second time I was there my daughter and I ordered Mac wedges and chicken and waffle wings to share. The Mac edges were flavorless. We each had a couple bites then quickly set them aside. The chicken for our entree (chicken and waffle wings) had feathers on it. More than one feather on more than one piece of chicken. I mentioned it to the waitress who took that feedback to the chef, who sent the reply that "they are real chicken wings." While I appreciate the use of real food, I would also greatly appreciate you removing the feathers before serving it to me. We didn't finish our meal and I won't be back. read more

Worst steak I've ever had the unfortunate experience of paying for. The garlic stuffed tenderloin was impossible to cut, it had almost no flavor and was a complete waste of meat. Service was good at least. Won't be back with cooks that butcher a steak that badly. read more

WOW. The atmosphere is great, I love that there are several seating options available depending on your situation which is convenient. The menu is incredible, I finally decided on the lobster Mac and it did NOT disappoint. The Bartender Jacob was so friendly and helpful in making my decision, I'll definitely sit bar side for his service again. Location is great, but will be even better once construction is done! read more

Wilder's Bistro - Seafood Near Me - Appleton, Wisconsin

My wife, daughter and I had a had great lunch with them. Started with fried Gouda bits and fried avocado. Both were nice. My daughter and I did the fish tacos. Very nice flavor & Spicy. My wife had the salmon BLT. It was a large portion on salmon and bacon. Had nice flavor. She really like the fresh potato chips too. Finished with pumpkin cheese cake. It was great. The girls had smoked blueberry cheesecake and they loved it. Would definitely recommend it. One of the best places in the area. read more

Wilder's Bistro - Seafood Near Me - Appleton, Wisconsin

Overall everything was good, the service, favor, portions and variety. Unfortunately they ran out of coffee and I only got one cup. That was a real disappointment. I'll probably come back but that was a strike against them. read more

It's not often you find not only GREAT service, GREAT food, but also a GREAT Old Fashioned! The special the evening we dined was a shrimp risotto. It was so creamy, the shrimp were large and fresh, and it was well prepared. The old fashioned is muddled, (no bar sugar here) and the best we have had in the valley! They do not use a standard maraschino cherry...which was a pleasant surprise. (Try it)! The attentiveness of the waitstaff and knowledge of the food was above average. I did not feel rushed. I was able to enjoy my meal. It was a nice date night with my spouse. The waitstaff was phenomenal, and we will be back! read more

The food here is Wildly impressive. Truffle fries on point. Had a burger with two types of mushrooms and Burre blanc sauce don't remember what it was called but it was lit. Maybe one if the best gumbos I've ever had and that's coming from a Louisiana kid. Atmosphere is really stale and does not reflect the bold flavors and beautiful presentation of the food. I know they are really new so hopefully that changes soon. read more

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This place has always been excellent. Last time I was here I had the smokehouse melt- but the bbq and a mac and cheese are excellent as well. My waiter was really nice and attentive even though I was by myself. I had a lemon thyme whiskey smash which was tasty as well. read more

My husband and I have been waiting for Wilders to open for dining and invited friends to join us. Our friends and myself were served our food and my husband waited about 10 minutes or so for his ribs. The owner came and apologized saying the new chefs overcooked his ribs and wanted to let us know they were redoing them and would discount his meal. They brought him some fresh made sides and then his delicious ribs. We all had outstanding meals and were so appreciative of the owner's honesty and willingness to make it right. Will definitely be going back! The waitress was Super nice too! read more

We ate here about a month ago and really liked it. But last night my smoked prime rib was so tough I could hardly cut it and then after chewing for a while had to spit it out. The fatty top part was all I could eat. My wife's tenderloin was also tough not sure what happened they did give us $20 off so paid $30 for a good side salad and delicious mashed potatoes. read more

Wilder's Bistro - Side salad - Seafood Near Me - Appleton, Wisconsin

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The words "sumptuous," "decadent," and "art" all come to mind when considering the lunch I just had at Wilder's. While in town visiting my family for the holidays, I was so pleased to hear that Chef Terrance Wilder's new location has now opened. To say the least, the man has a gift. My Pat's Shrum burger was the perfect combination of rich and earthy, with a beurre blanc sauce that complemented the generous helping of mushrooms. My father went with the Bistro Melt, electing to have it on a grilled chicken breast that was thankfully moist and flavorful. Finally, my mother's Surf and Turf burger was nearly symphonic in nature, with the hollandaise and spinach emanating freshness and wholeness. The sidewinder fries were lovely, but the real treat, as far as sides were concerned, were the sweet potato tots. Trust me. Our server was so sweet and bubbly, but of course her name has totally escaped me; I blame my food delirium. Wilder's is an essential gem in the Fox Valley. I can't wait to visit again! read more

I came here late on a Monday evening looking for something different with relatively healthy options. As someone who travels for work, it has become increasingly different to find a restaurant that serves unique spins on food without paying an arm and a leg for the high-end chef experience. After a while it seems like every "gastropub," every Mexican restaurant, every Chinese place offers basically the same fare. Wilder's Bistro bucks that trend. The menu and the decor are eclectic. The ambiance suggested intimate, with open space, local art on the walls, well dressed staff, and sparse lighting, but 80's music was playing at a higher than expected volume, and two TV's were on over the bar--one playing a basketball game. So I wasn't sure if this was a place for date night, casual lunch, or a game and a beer. That may be the only criticism I have of this place: decide what you want to be. Ditch the TV's and 80's rock, it doesn't suit your motif. Since it was late on a Monday, there was only one other couple in the restaurant and we were served very quickly. My appetizer was out within 10 minutes, my meal within 15. The menu selections is where this place is really intriguing. The waiter indicated to me that they have a Mississippi/Cajun influence, which was evident, but it certainly was not limited to that. I forgot all about healthy when I saw the pepper jack logs wrapped in wonton. They were awesome. However, I did go with the seared Mahi fish tacos, and I'm glad I did. It was spicier than I anticipated but not overpowering. Cooked and seasoned perfectly, and generous portions. To be honest with the appetizer and two tacos I was stuffed. In addition to the seafood, they also have a smoker and a full burger menu, so there are quite a few options in case you have a group that can't decide what they want to eat. Wilder's offers a little bit of everything, and the diverse options compel me to come back and explore the menu--especially at these prices. You can spend the same amount of money other local restaurants in the area and get a basic fish fry, burger and cheese curds, burrito platter, or whatever, and you'd be full but forget about it soon after because it's nothing memorable. Wilder's is intriguing. High-end food, reasonable prices, and great options. But if you can figure out the atmosphere here, you'll just have to let me know! read more

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We have wanted to try Wilders for awhile. With Covid they don't have sit in dining so we opted for delivery. OMG! We had Jambalaya, fried Okra, greens and cornbread/ garlic bread. The food was amazing, felt like being back home. Thank you so much. So many places try their hand at southern food and don't come close, but your restaurant could give southern grannies a run for their money. Usually don't get much at other places if you do take out or delivery. Not the case here, had plenty left over for the next day. Thank you Thank you so very much. read more

This place has it all! Great surroundings, lots of space, eager and friendly staff... and the food is terrific! Check out the appetizers! The meal was beautifully prepared, and about as tasty as it gets. We will be back! read more

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Excellent food and service. I enjoyed the stuffed mushrooms and wilder burger. The stuffed mushrooms were very unique and delicious. The wilder burger had all kinds of flavor and I could tell the chef put a lot of thought into it. Great atmosphere with a few TVs in the bar area if you want to come and watch a game and enjoy drinks and apps. Good stuff! read more

A hidden gem in Appleton where restaurant food is getting high priced. This is well priced and big portions. The smokehouse entrees were delicious and the homemade soups tasty! Attentive staff as well. I highly recommend. read more

The ribs were so good, they actually made me cry a little. Smoked and sauced so perfectly, you could eat them with a spoon. Pro tip: order the peanut butter and bacon dipping sauce (don't doubt it; run toward it) and dip your garlic points (buttery garlicky nearly Texas toast thickness toast). You might cry a little too. But don't worry; those are tears of unparalleled, unrivaled in the Fox Valley, BBQ joy. read more

We eat Wilders once a week! The Blackened Mahi Tacos are a go-to for my family for delivery. If sitting in restaurant, I do enjoy the shrimp and grits. Would love if they had smoked turkey instead of pork in the greens and/or beans so we could eat them, but thats just me wanting to try everything on their menu because they are so delicious! My partner also likes the Smokehouse Sandwich, Smoked Salmon BLT (minus the B), and we LOVE the wings too! Lobster cakes are a great appetizer and their sauce is sooo good that comes with it! Also for the vegetarians out there, try the Wilders Salad you will not be disappointed it is much more than just a salad!!! A+++ from us every time. Thanks for being consistent!! read more

Candice took great care of us today for lunch! We enjoyed the mushroom caps app and lemon cake for dessert ...its all good!! Relaxing place, wonderful staff and eats! Thank u all..we will be back! read more

Totally horrible service. No on was in the back to serve us so we went to the front. The host/waiter was a nice guy. Thats where it ends. They didn't have the booze to make specialty drinks and the bitch jerk bartender told me I should go back and get it cause she isn't going to. Needless to say we left and will never go back read more

OMG!!! Now my favorite Appleton restaurant!! I don't live on the area, but visit often. Friends recommended take out here last week. Amazing food!! Between us we had the po boy with blackened fish, Smokey waldorf, aunt nenny & the stuffed mushrooms. We all enjoyed our meals. Fresh ingredients & very affordable for all the food you get. I will definitely being going back. read more

Great service and good food, the Wilder burger is 2 meals in one. I got my to-go order before I could finish my drink. Note: GrubHub can't deliver Sundays. read more

.What the hell is Pats Mighty Shrum all about do you know? I'll take the jaMbalya .............I need...........Lobster roll thanks bye

I've been going to Wilders a few times per month for the past couple of years. There are many creative dishes that you just can't get anywhere else. read more

I went with a group from work for lunch, and I can't wait to go back, I ordered the pan seared fish tacos and they were amazing. The lobster mac & cheese looked divine, the burgers are huge, and the ribs were fall off the bone tender (per the guy who ordered them). Service was fast considering there were 12 of us in the group. read more

I wanted to love this place but my first experience today was very underwhelming. We ordered a Fish Po Boy sandwich and the Jambalaya. Jambalaya was tasty. We really liked it. Unfortunately the other dish was a complete disappointment. The fish tasted dirty, the veggies tasted dirty, the lettuce was old (black) and the okra also tasted sad and old. I was looking forward to some fried okra, I like even the lamest fried okra out there, but this one tasted like it was sitting in the fridge for too long. I had my boyfriend taste all of it to get a second opinion and he spit out the Po Boy and said the okra was terrible I'm giving them 3 and noT 2 stars because of the jambalaya, which makes me want to try their gumbo and chili. Their Bloody Mary looks great too. Maybe one day we'll consider giving them another shot to try one Update: it's been about 4 hours since I took a single bite of the Po Boy and my stomach hurts and I've been running to the bathroom every 20 minutes. I will never go back to this restaurant read more

Excellent fish tacos, service was great. Second time there. The only thing wrong is the booths that you sit in, over used and you sink into the seat. Next time we will take a table seat. read more

Stopped in for lunch on a Saturday. We wanted tapas. One person in our party is on a restricted diet, but found an acceptable menu item. We ordered, but that menu item was not available. When we asked the server if we could order a side salad, he said no, not from this side. Apparently even though they advertise a as a lounge and bistro, they are unable to accommodate a customer request. Or so I thought, until another customer came in and ordered, but then realized she wanted to be in the bistro. Then he was able to offer her closing out her bill in the lounge and taking her tapa to the bistro. Why couldn't we order a salad from the bistro, pay for it and then eat on the lounge. Your internal operations shouldn't affect the experience you offer to your guests. Totally turned off from this establishment. read more

Today's curbside lunch was very good. Bella sandwich, Wilder's salad, and blackened fish tacos were excellent. Peanut butter chocolate cheesecake and lemon cake were light and not too sweet. Can't wait to come back! read more

We tried Wilder's for the first time tonight, and I'm already thinking about going back. Started with a Cherry Moscow Mule, had the BEST spinach artichoke dip, and enjoyed the Waldorf sandwich as my entree. My dining companions chose Eli's Chicken and raved about the fig BBQ sauce and creamy risotto. Service was well paced and attentive. Prices are very reasonable! Sorry, no pictures. Go see this amazing food with your own eyes! Don't let the road construction scare you. Valley Road is open, so take the 47 exit off 441 and it's an easy drive via Valley Road to S Oneida. See you there! read more

Delicious food. Ordered delivery and food arrived hot and yummy. Breaded avocado are amazing! Haven't had anything bad on the menu. Would recommend! read more

First time here...service and food top notch at reasonable price points. Time from seated to served is longer than normal, but with good company, the time passes quickly and is worth the wait! We would highly recommend giving them a try, because you will be making another visit just like we will! read more

This is a hard review because our food was good, but the food service was terrible. The sever said 40minute wait for food but we ordered Mac and cheese, and a grilled cheese. Then a couple was sat after us ordered the fish was got their food in about 5minutes. They were eating dessert before we even got entrees and were never offered bread or anything to off set the difference. The table next to us sat for an hour plus. We think maybe reservations got to eat first? But felt rude not to mention anything to us. So food was solid but service would say highly questionable. Because the table next to us now (literally as I write this, waited hour for same meal) just got fish but wait an hour. Why the difference? read more

Visiting family from Vegas. My boyfriend and I ordered the lobster Mac and jambalaya. Drinks and food were delicious! Super flavorful. The staff is very friendly as well. Will come again when we're back. read more

Our first time here, went on a Thursday night, at 5:30. We were the only ones here, which we thought was odd. Hostess informed us that there are two bars and two types of menus, so we chose the front bar. Two for one happy hour was good. Drinks were good and the lonely bartender eavesdropping on our conversation was ok. All four of us ordered different meals and we enjoyed our dinner. Price was on the high side for our typical night out, $48 for two meals and two drinks including tip. Very nice atmosphere, just seemed weird that it was empty the whole time we were there. read more

We love this place! Hostess was very friendly and welcoming. Service was excellent. Very nice cozy atmosphere. A nice place whether you're just looking to grab a bite or have a nice date night. We absolutely LOVED the spinach artichoke dip, and the fried pickles were a delicious alternative to fries. The Bistro Burger is the best! read more

First time here last night & was very impressed. We started with spinach & artichoke dip which was great and then had "the wilder" burger as an entree. It was cooked perfectly and SO tasty. In addition prices were reasonable and service was great. We'll be back. read more

Excellent service and atmosphere. The dining area is expansive and there is a large bar area. Specials are offered, and there is a good variety of dishes and flavors. Our server was very informative and helpful with questions we had. The group I ate with consisted of meat eaters and vegetarians/vegans and everyone was satisfied. The veggie burger I ordered was by far the best I've had in the Fox Valley. read more

Very good food and very good service. I had their aunt Nelly sandwich....bacon, cheese, and apple. Really tasty. Hubby had tenderloin. Perfectly cooked large serving. Pretty interior with local art on the walls. Nice touch. Will be back soon. Staff was so welcoming. read more

This place is amazing. It was my first time going with my fiancé. We live in Waukesha and had to go to Menesha for his work. We are originally from California and love seafood. We saw the lobster Mac and cheese on the menu & decided to give it a try despite the website saying that it took a bit to make food. We were hungry! We got there. Saw the lunch menu even though we knew what we wanted. The waiter was really nice and took the time to explain the menu as well. We ordered and did expect to wait a little longer for the food, but it came out in a timely manner. Nothing too outrageous. The waiter even gave us an update on its progress. Now, the lobster Mac and cheese was amazing. At first, we didn't even think there was lobster in it because it was broken up. Each bite tasted like lobster! The bread was really buttery and had a bunch of flavor. The only problem was that we wish there was a closer location. Guess we will have to have another reason to come up here. read more