Photo of the back from the bar
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Puempel's Olde Tavern

4.5
·495 reviews·New Glarus, United States

Step into a piece of Wisconsin history at Puempel's Olde Tavern, famous for its stunning murals and classic comfort food.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Lunchtime weekdays

Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
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Photo of the back from the bar

Puempel's Olde Tavern

Best Time

Lunchtime weekdays

Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into a piece of Wisconsin history at Puempel's Olde Tavern, famous for its stunning murals and classic comfort food.

4.5
(495 reviews)

"Love the history of the beautiful murals on the walls! Great customer service with a smile."

Vertical photo
TIP

Admire the Wall Art

Take time to appreciate the beautiful, historic murals covering the walls. They tell a story! 🎨

Try the Liverwurst

The liverwurst (Braunschweiger) sandwich on seedless rye is a unique and delicious local specialty. 🍞

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Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.5 · 495 reviews

Type

Bar & Grill

🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Murals

Historic Murals

Interior walls

Stunning, detailed murals depicting local history and culture adorn the walls, offering a visual feast.

Bratwurst Sandwich

Bratwurst Sandwich

Menu

A classic Wisconsin bratwurst, packed with flavor and served with a choice of mustards.

Bloody Maria with Spotted Cow Chaser

Bloody Maria with Spotted Cow Chaser

Bar

A unique twist on a Bloody Mary, often paired with a local Spotted Cow beer for the ultimate Wisconsin experience.

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Embrace the Historic Charm

Puempel's Olde Tavern is a step back in time with its beautiful murals and classic Wisconsin fare. Expect a cozy, historic atmosphere perfect for a relaxed lunch or drink. It's a local favorite, so be ready for a friendly, authentic experience.

Savor Classic Wisconsin Flavors

While the menu is concise, it excels at traditional Wisconsin dishes like bratwurst and liverwurst sandwiches. Don't miss the chance to try their unique Bloody Maria or a Spotted Cow chaser. It's a taste of local heritage.

Best Times

When
Lunchtime weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively local atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

How to have the most Wisconsin trip

I'm coming back into town for a bonspiel, how can I make the most out of a 5 day trip at the end of october? I'm fully convinced Vitense has the best fried curds, but wanting to Wisconsin/Madison MAX while in town. TIA

Admire the Wall Art

Take time to appreciate the beautiful, historic murals covering the walls. They tell a story! 🎨

Try the Liverwurst

The liverwurst (Braunschweiger) sandwich on seedless rye is a unique and delicious local specialty. 🍞

Ask About the Menu

The menu is classic and focused. Ask staff for recommendations if you're unsure what to order. ❓

Enjoy the Atmosphere

Soak in the historic ambiance; it's a key part of the Puempel's experience. ✨

Tips

from all over the internet

Admire the Wall Art

Take time to appreciate the beautiful, historic murals covering the walls. They tell a story! 🎨

Try the Liverwurst

The liverwurst (Braunschweiger) sandwich on seedless rye is a unique and delicious local specialty. 🍞

Ask About the Menu

The menu is classic and focused. Ask staff for recommendations if you're unsure what to order. ❓

Enjoy the Atmosphere

Soak in the historic ambiance; it's a key part of the Puempel's experience. ✨

Friendly Bartenders

Bartenders like Harmony are known for their warm, witty service and can enhance your visit. ❤️

What Travellers Say

4.5
(495 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Puempel's Olde Tavern is lauded for its incredibly charming historic atmosphere, highlighted by stunning wall murals and a genuine, old-time tavern feel. Patrons praise the classic Wisconsin comfort food, particularly the bratwurst and liverwurst sandwiches, and the unique Bloody Maria. Service is often described as friendly and welcoming, with some bartenders being noted as exceptional. While the menu is concise, it delivers on traditional flavors.

"Nice lunch with a friend! Bloody Maria was awesome with a "Spotted Cow" chaser! French onion soup was good also with a half of turkey sandwich. Great customer service with a smile 😃 Love the history of the beautiful murals on the walls!"

DeeAnn Cecchetti

"I was immediately drawn to this place because of the historic look of the outside. I was originally a little nervous of the small menu, but sometimes the best places know exactly what makes them good and they don’t need a huge menu. The menu is classic to the town and they do it well. I got the brat, yet simple, it was delicious and packed with flavor. The inside is full on in the past and that makes it so interesting to look at and completes the experience. The prices are even better and the full bar menu is great as well. Very happy I chose to come here."

Devin Ganka

"Very nice, historic place. Had a very good liverwurst (specifically braunschweiger) sandwich on seedless rye. We also had the "Italuan beef, with hot peppers and au jus" (both on the side) sandwich, which was, well, very different from the juicy, almost shredded pepperoncini‐mixed Chicago-style "Italian beef" we have had many places. Not the same thing, this is just slices of Italian Roast Beef lunchmeat on a bun. The menu needs to describe this better. Overall, a nice historic place, good atmosphere. Dollars tossed up to the ceiling go to charity."

Glenn S.

What People Like

Historic murals
Classic Wisconsin food
Friendly service

What People Dislike

Limited menu variety
Italian beef description

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Puempel's Olde Tavern is located in New Glarus, Wisconsin. It's a scenic drive from Madison, often recommended as part of a Wisconsin road trip. Parking is typically available on the street nearby. Reddit

Public transport options directly to New Glarus are limited. It's best accessed by car, especially if you're exploring the surrounding Wisconsin countryside. Reddit

Many visitors combine a trip to Puempel's with exploring the shops in New Glarus or visiting nearby breweries. It's also a great stop on a longer Wisconsin tour. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Puempel's Olde Tavern is a casual tavern and restaurant, so no tickets are required for entry. You can walk in and be seated. :admission_tickets:

Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open for lunch and dinner. It's always a good idea to check their current hours before visiting, especially on holidays. :clockwithmagnifier:

There is no admission fee to enter Puempel's Olde Tavern. You only pay for what you order from the menu. :moneywithwings:

Puempel's Olde Tavern is a popular spot, especially with locals. While reservations might not always be necessary for smaller groups, it's wise to call ahead if you have a larger party or are visiting during peak times. :telephone_receiver:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Puempel's is celebrated for its classic Wisconsin fare, including delicious bratwurst sandwiches, liverwurst sandwiches, and French onion soup. They also offer a great Bloody Maria. :food_bowl:

The menu is quite traditional, so vegetarian options might be limited. It's best to inquire about daily specials or sides that can be adapted. :leafy_green:

Locals and visitors rave about the Bloody Maria, often enjoyed with a Spotted Cow chaser. They also have a good selection of beers and other beverages. 🍺

Reviews suggest the Italian Beef sandwich is prepared differently than the classic Chicago style, featuring slices of roast beef lunchmeat on a bun rather than shredded beef. It's described as 'very different.' :sandwich:

Prices are generally considered very reasonable, offering good value for the quality and experience. It's an affordable option for a satisfying meal. 💵

📸 📸 Photography

The most striking photo opportunities are the beautiful, historic murals covering the tavern's walls. The exterior also has a charming, old-time look. :camerawithflash:

Yes, you are welcome to take photos inside to capture the unique atmosphere and the stunning murals. Be mindful of other patrons' privacy. :iphone:

Focus on capturing the detail and artistry of the murals. The bar area and cozy seating also make for atmospheric shots. :picture_frame:

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