There’s something electric about the West Side of Eau Claire—a current that zips up the block each time a new food spot opens or a favorite rolls out a seasonal special. Just across the Clairemont Avenue bridge from downtown, the West Side is often overshadowed by hype about Water Street or Barstow, but ask any in-the-know foodie and they’ll say this neighborhood is the city’s true culinary heart. Whether you crave hearty comfort food, artisan pastries, a killer cup of coffee, or ethnic eats with local flair, read on for your insider’s guide to the West Side’s best bites.
An Overview of West Side’s Food Scene
The West Side, stretching along Menomonie Street to Clairemont Avenue and dotted with residential streets and small businesses, has quietly cultivated an impressive collection of both long-standing favorites and innovative newcomers. This area’s food scene thrives thanks to local pride, affordable price points, and creative restauranteurs determined to offer guests something memorable—without pretense.
From morning coffee shops on Cameron Street to food trucks near Carson Park, dining here means discovering variety, value, and plenty of “hidden gem” moments.
Standout Restaurants for Every Appetite
- Mona Lisa’s (421 Water St., just over the bridge): Technically at the edge of the West Side, Mona Lisa’s is where West Siders go for dates, family milestones, or anytime they crave Italian with flair. Expect handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and a wine list that’s the envy of local oenophiles. Prices run $16–$30 for mains—a treat, but worth it for the atmosphere and quality.
- Egg Roll Plus (1611 Bellinger St.): If you ask a local where to grab late-night Asian eats, Egg Roll Plus always tops the list. This family-run spot is a beacon of comfort food, from their crispy egg rolls (arguably the best in town, under $5) to generous pho bowls and flavorful stir fry. Almost everything is under $15, and the vibe is laid-back and friendly.
- Taqueria La Poblanita (1120 Menomonie St.): This Mexican food haven is beloved for its rich tacos, burritos, and tortas—especially the al pastor and the homemade roja salsa. The tacos ($2–$4 each) are stuffed with juicy meat and perfectly seasoned. Look for the little green building right by the bike trail: it’s a frequent pit stop for university students and families alike.
Cafés and Bakeries for Your Coffee, Pastry, and Brunch Fix
- Eau Claire Cheese & Deli (1636 Harding Ave.): An old-school neighborhood deli, it’s famous for cheese curds—fresh or fried—plus stacked sandwiches featuring Boar’s Head meats and Wisconsin cheeses. Grab a soup-and-sandwich lunch special for under $12 and don’t leave without a tub of their signature cheese spread.
- The French Press (2823 London Rd. near Clairemont Ave.): While technically a step past Clairemont’s border, locals treat The French Press as a West Side brunch institution. Their scratch-made pastries (get the pecan roll!), inventive omelets, and locally roasted coffee are served in a bustling, cheery space. Expect to spend $8–$15.
- 360 Degrees Café (630 S Barstow St., at the cusp of the West Side): A cozy spot perfect for a mid-morning study session or casual business meet-up. The highlights? Creative lattes (try the honey lavender), fresh croissants, and lunch salads with locally sourced greens. Prices hover around $5–$12.
Food Trucks & Casual Classics
- Dhimiters Gyros (Mobile, often by Menomonie St. or Carson Park): Watch for this iconic truck at events or regular weekly stops. Their gyros—fresh lamb, beef, or chicken, plus tangy sauce—are legendary for $8–$10 a pop. Pair it with baklava for dessert.
- Westside Market Food Trucks (1300 block of Menomonie St., near soccer fields in warmer months): This semi-regular gathering turns parking lots into a global street food bazaar, featuring everything from Jamaican jerk chicken to classic burgers and even vegan grain bowls.
Neighborhood Favorites & Hidden Gems
- Silvermine Subs (2315 W Cameron St.): A sandwich shop with a cult following that delivers “substantial” subs far and wide. Build your own or try their signature “Yosemite Sam” loaded with roast beef, cheddar, and special sauce. With most subs priced $7–$11, it’s a reliable and speedy lunch go-to.
- Sammy’s Pizza (2812 London Rd.): For many West Siders, this family-owned joint is synonymous with Friday night. Their cracker-thin crust pizzas topped with real Wisconsin cheese and homemade sausage are a taste of genuine Midwestern tradition. A large specialty pie feeds a family for under $25.
- West Ridge Grocery (1701 Truax Blvd.): Not a restaurant, but you’ll want to swing by if you’re cooking at home. This corner market carries hard-to-find international foods, fresh produce, and a takeout counter with daily specials (think pierogis or homemade curry).
Local Eats, Local Traditions
The West Side’s food scene shines not just for its variety, but for its roots in local tradition and community.
- Friday Night Fish Fry: Several local spots—Egg Roll Plus and Sammy’s among them—put out special fry menus on Fridays. Expect light, crisp batter, potato pancakes, coleslaw, and friendly faces.
- Cheese Curds & Brew: You’ll find cheese curds at almost every eatery, best enjoyed with a cold local craft beer (try Brewing Projekt or Lazy Monk).
- Seasonal Flavors: Don’t miss sweet corn stands along Menomonie Street in August, and hot apple cider at neighborhood cafés once the leaves turn in fall.
Where to Begin Your West Side Bite Tour
Start your day with fresh doughnuts or scones at The French Press, then wander Menomonie Street for lunch at Taqueria La Poblanita or an impromptu food truck feast. Finish up with dinner at Mona Lisa’s or grab a pizza from Sammy’s to share. And remember: whether you’re after gourmet or greasy spoon, you’ll find a new go-to on the West Side, where each meal comes with a serving of community spirit.
So next time someone asks where to eat in Eau Claire, wave them over the river and let the West Side welcome them—with a table full of local flavor.