if you're white you might get your food? Can't report on that though I'm white I never got my food as I sat with my friends and bandmates one being Brazilian and the other a black man. Having root in Superior Wisconsin and a frequent visitor i was deeply ashamed of these particular Wisconsinites At Aurora Borealis restaurant. To be clear Both of these guys I was with are highly intelligent people and leaders in their respective lives - we play music together for the love and community of it. I wondered is this a Manitowish Waters thing I'd like not to believe that but not a good look for your town. A bar/restaurant further up the road gave us great service with a smile. So we got fed outside of town a bit. Bad look just go elsewhere read more

We love Aurora Borealis! Absolutely the best menu and every offering is prepared perfectly with the best ingredients. And just as special as the food is the staff- we always look forward to being at A/B. read more

This place sucks! We never received our food. Three other groups of people that arrived after us received their food. We let it slide and the server said she was going to comp our meals. Giving the benefit of the doubt, we waited 10 to 15 minutes more...no meal. The other patrons seated in close proximity noticed we hadn't received our food. We walked out. The band we're in was visiting the area and thought this looked like a nice place to grab breakfast. When we being seated, we were seated close to a trumper with his Trump hat on. Keep in mind we are a mixed band of people one of us was Brazilian, one white and one black. We seriously think that had something to do with it. Can we prove it...no! But what a hell of a coincidence. The rude service happened, Sun., June 29, 2025. read more

I don't write reviews lightly, but what happened during our visit deserves to be called out. We were not overtly refused service--no one had the courage to do that. Instead, we were quietly and deliberately ignored. Orders taken from others. Eye contact avoided. Time passed. Still, nothing. I should have walked out when the kitchen and bar staff glared at us as we walked in. Let me be clear: this wasn't about a busy staff or a mistake. We watched as white people who came in after us were greeted, served, and treated with basic respect. We were simply... not. It's easy to deny racism when it's quiet. When there's no slur, no explicit refusal, just a calculated silence. But that's exactly the point. That kind of discrimination thrives in shadows, protected by plausible deniability. And in today's world--where so many are fighting for equity and accountability--this kind of behavior isn't just outdated. It's shameful. You had a choice. You could have stood by your supposed values and simply refused us service outright. That would have at least required honesty and backbone. Instead, you took the coward's route--silent, smug, and complicit. To others reading this: know what kind of place you're walking into. Racism isn't always loud. Sometimes it just looks like your order never getting taken. Cowardly, Racist Behavior Has No Place in This Community. I wish I could give negative stars. I haven't seen this behavior since being in the south in the 70s. Please ignore these good reviews. No matter if the food is descent. read more

I can only provide a review about service because this morning as I was driving toward the restaurant I called to place an order to go for 4 breakfast sandwiches. When I called to place to order the gentleman (I use this term LOOSELY) informed me "I don't have time for that sh$t." Then I asked if they had availability for 4 to come in and sit he said there was plenty of room. When I asked why can't I just order 4 breakfast sandwiches and put them in a to-go box he again told me "I don't have time to deal with this sh$t." That was the end of the conversation. So I went to the Outdoorsman Restaurant and they had NO PROBLEM with takeout and the food was AMAZING. Go there first. read more

Everything about this place was amazing the food was delicious and the waitresses were very nice! Overall I would recommend coming here because it's amazing! read more

Aurora Borealis Restaurant - This is what I got and it was delicious!:) - New American Near Me - Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin

Service was excellent. Only one minor complaint I can think of is that our waitress forgot the orange juice for one of our party. That said, our waitress was very pleasant, and was in many ways, the perfect waitress... She didn't badger us, but she also did not ignore us ... that is a tightrope a waitress has to walk, and our waitress appeared to be a Wallenda in the waitress world. One other minor complaint: there were three of us in our party and one of us was still eating, while the other two had finished and the waitress began to clear the plates from the two who had finished. This was slightly annoying to the two who had finished eating, but honestly, the person who was still eating didn't even notice. As for the food, which many might feel is more important than nitpicking waitress performance, let me just say that all three in our party thought the food was excellent. The blueberry pancakes were really really good!! The biscuits and gravy were also outstanding (however, it perhaps later resulted in flatulence, but even if there was a causal relationship that is of course no fault of the chef, and likely unique to the person effected) Again , well done on these homemade biscuits !! Service 85 Food. 97 Final score Five stars!!! read more

Every time we are in the north woods we have to pop in here for breakfast! The staff seems a little crabby, but this can be overlooked for the food :) The pancakes are huge and fluffy. The kids love them. I have tried a few things off the menu. The omelets are very tasty as is the breakfast burrito. I'd say this is a solid place to land for a north woods breakfast. Currently they are listed as temporarily closed, but I think they are open during the spring-fall. Crossing my fingers they don't close permanently like a lot of our favorites have been up north. read more

Service was extremely slow- so slow in fact, that I look over before the food arrived, and a cobweb had been strung to my brother's head. The food was good, minus the fact that my order had been forgotten. The restaurant was not extremely busy, with plenty of open tables, but yet we were still there for an hour and 40 minutes at a table for 5. We've been going here every year and it was always good, so this could have just been due to a new waitress. read more

Had a great lunch. Best lunch I've had In Manitowish Waters. Prompt service by an excellent server. Ham and pea soup had chunks of ham in a tasty, creamy base. My BLTA (a for aioli) sandwich had hearty wheat bread and nicely cooked bacon. Nice decor with photos of old M.W. read more

Really good breakfast here and great service. Stopped here on a snowmobile trip. Will go here again.

Very little was open when my husband and I rolled into the north woods after a day of driving. But thankfully Aurora Borealis was! AND the food and service were great to boot! We were basically the last folks in there but we were treated like friends instead of an inconvenience. I was sadly too tired to recall our server's name but he was a delight. Really awesome guy who gave us great suggestions on beer, food, and more. We got the butternut squash bruschetta to start and it was fantastic. For my main course I got the short rib sliders which were great. HUGE portion as well. My husband got the fish and chips and really enjoyed it. We also had some local beers and appreciated the guidance from the staff on picking the right one. Great conversation, fantastic food, cool space in a fun stretch of town? I'm sold! read more

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Great little restaurant in Manitowish Waters - nice variety of options including pasta and seafood. Tried a special with scallops and it was delicious. Not as busy which was a bonus. Definitely will be back! read more

2 stars only because the food was delicious and the place was cute. That was where it ended. Service was absolutely terrible. Incredibly slow with 3 servers and 8 tables. For some reason this popped up on Yelp when I typed in "best blood mary". If you like paying $10 for vodka and Zing Zang, then this is the place for you! Breakfast sandwich, reuben omelette and 2 bloody marys = $50+. read more

Outstanding service, easy-access location, cute spot, quick service. Had a tasty breakfast with plenty of food. Will be a place we return to. read more

Great place to grab breakfast!! Service was great, we will be back next time we are in the area!!

worth the wait! the food was exceptional. the chef is the owner and it's obvious! we had to wait about an hour, which isn't ideal w/ a 16 month old with ants in his pants, but I promise you it won't disappoint. most delicious biscuits and gravy (not spicy, yet meaty, savory, pure gold)! servers were so kind and patient with us, too. might be back tomorrow. wish i had a pic to share. cool decor throughout. read more

Umpteenth visit. Twice for breakfast this week. Our table sampled a good number of menu options. Great omelets: Mexican; Feta and asparagus; gruyere & mushrooms. All excellent, all served with hash browns, choice of toast or pancake (real maple syrup). Basic bacon & eggs or Bacon, sausage & eggs with the same potato & bread choices. Blueberry pancakes with a meat side; very good French toast. Excellent server with a great attitude, Jess, though the kitchen was slow. Restaurant was very full. If I have a complaint, its weak coffee (for my taste). read more

Finally, an up north eatery that doesn't just slap down whatever fell off the Cisco truck! A perfect meal started with bartender Amy making us a blood orange Old Fashioned, and beer comes in a frosted Pilsner glass. A sublime dinner with the highlights being the grilled watermelon salad, perfect mussels, and an lovely halibut with rich saffron rice and crisp, immaculate snow peas. Glassed-in dining Room faces the water. Food is fancy but atmosphere is up north comfy. Our neighbors were a spirited group of older ladies whom we overheard clarifying themselves as "jaguars," which they interpreted to be mature cougars. My only wistful regret is that portion sizes are so generous that we didn't have room for a mile-high fresh blueberry cake that looked like your childhood's imagined cake. Will definitely return. read more

We were on vacation and we did not know the closing times out here. We showed up a half hour before closing, but they were very nice about it, and said whenever you guys finished eating is when we close, no worries. Our waitress was wonderful she was very tentative, The food was very fast & the steak was cook perfectly! Everything was great! We ended up living at 10:05 ! read more

Nice breakfast place. Good coffee. Some people wrote pricey on here but I do not think so. Portions were just fine for the price.

Wow! After reading the reviews, my husband and I decided to give this gem a try for breakfast. We have been coming north for 10 years snowmobiling and can't figure out why we have never been here! The service was speedy and friendly (waited 20 minutes for food) and it is our new favorite! They use fresh ingredients from local places around Wisconsin and you can taste it! My husband had biscuits and gravy with the works, and I had the buttermilk pancakes with a side of cheesy hash browns. The serving sizes are enormous, so come hungry! read more

Stopped here for breakfast on our way out of town. Fantastic! Everything was fresh and appeared to be made from scratch. It was a little bit pricey for a breakfast stop, but we didn't need lunch later. Service was a little on the slow side, but that seems to be routine in the Northwoods. read more

Great atmosphere and good food! Nothing that wow'd me but the food was good and the coffee was flowing

The steamed hams here are the better than any restaurant in Springfield, and that's a fact.

Saturday morning for breakfast around 9:30. There was no wait and we were seated immediately. Friendly service and delicious coffee. I had the biscuits and gravy, which were delicious. Gravy wasn't overly thick, perfect consistency. My husband had the breakfast burrito and said it was the best one he's ever had! Next time we are visiting, we will be back! read more

In our effort to eat local and be sure to spread our time and money at many places, we stopped here for breakfast. We were a casual group, didn't display any urgency, just strolled in and hadn't even said hello, good morning or asked for a table. The waitress came to the host stand, gave us an exasperated sigh and said "well you probably can't get food for 45 minutes." We all smiled and responded that was fine. She looked around and with big, sweeping arm gestures pointing at full tables, added, clearly not wanting us to stay, "I don't even have empty tables for you." So, we took her hint and gladly left. It was an easy Sunday morning, we would have waited, but thankfully this waitress signaled she didn't want any more tables, guests or people to try and enjoy the food. No problem. We enjoyed a great meal elsewhere and now we know not to return. We lucked out. read more

Best food in the Northwoods! Whether you're looking for a quick sandwich/burger while boating or a classy sit down meal, the Aurora Borealis has you covered. I ate there twice in my one week stay in Manitowish Waters and both of my experiences were spectacular. The location is easily reached by both car (just off 51 in downtown Mantiowish Waters) and boat (assuming you're on the Mantiowish Waters chain, park at Kohler Park and walking across the dam). The first time was for dinner. I ordered the crab cakes, a wedge salad, the bleu cheese stuffed pork chop (I think the chop was the special that day), and the homemade cheesecake for desert. Each dish was presented beautifully, with a plentiful amount of sauce drizzled on every plate. The crab cakes were homemade and amazing. (For the record, you're going to want to get 2 orders because the other people at your table will be stealing them.) The rest of the meal was equally tasty and prepared to perfection. Side note: my sister ordered the scallops, and hasn't stopped talking about them since (it's been a month now). The second time I stopped in for a quick sandwich after a long day of boating. I sat at the bar and then realized that the bar menu is different than the dinner menu. The bar menu included gourmet burgers and a number of other tasty sandwiches and finger foods. I selected a burger with Cheddar, caramelized onions, bleu cheese aioli and roasted red peppers. It was so good that I didn't put it down once I took my first bite. Someone I was boating with ordered the duck con fit quesadillas, and they, too, were really good. The (possibly mango) salsa they put on top went perfectly with the flavor of the duck. All in all, I loved the Aurora Borealis and will be visiting them again the next time I'm in the Northwoods. read more

Loved this find in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. Unlike most eateries up around the Eagle River/Minoqua/Rhinelander area, this place has a really impressive menu - not the typical steak/potatoes kind of place. Young owners who've gone to culinary school, adorable waitress (up from Madison for the summer) who was very friendly and helpful for the vegans in our party. Loved the quiet and the sun room's lovely woodsy view. We plan to go back next year! Thanks for a nice addition to our yearly experience. read more

Oh. My. God. What an awesome experience was enjoyed by all in my most recent "Girls Night Out". Food. Ambiance. Non Fussy and Unassuming Flair. Fabulous. If you happen to find yourself up in the north-woods, you might notice that, oftentimes, the exterior of an establishment does not mimic the interior. And vice verse. So, was the case with Aurora Borealis. But what an incredible find it truly is! The bar is warm and cozy with knotty pine and a lighting system that has the ability to not only make you look several years younger, but also ten pounds thinner. That's a good thing because when the food cometh, get ready to be completely seduced. Our little celebratory dinner for three took place on their screened porch, pretty landscaping, and no bugs! Yay. And though we talked non stop, a lot of the conversation was intermingled with groans of ecstasy. For openers, drinks and wine run the gamut; they are paired by wonderful and spicy bread fingers with olive oil and garlic. If you are a lover of garlic, as am I, get out the breath mints because it is sweet and plentiful. The menu at Aurora Borealis is not extensive, on all counts, but for an evenings seating it has a nicely varied menu from appetizers to dessert that will please anyone. The appetizer plate of homemade chips, salsa, and guacamole --- empty! If you enjoy salsa with nicely chopped tomatoes, gentle seasoning, in a pungent oil and a not overly jazzed guacamole your eyes will glaze over after this. The salad course was outstanding, as well. We all picked the Caesar and just grinned when it was deftly served with warm croutons and a snazzy drizzle of dressing that we downed. We could have eaten another .. and another .. and another. And --- on to the main event! Could we possibly outdo ourselves and have a trifecta in the "clean plate club"? Hm-mm. Oh yeah! Two of us opted for the rib eye with a lovely and subtle herb butter, plus Yukon gold spuds and asparagus. One of us chose the spinach stuffed ravioli with sauteed veggies. Excellent entrees, with wonderful side dishes. If I had another stomach to give to my country I would have happily downed another steak. The food was perfectly cooked. You might ask, "could these women even entertain the possibility of dessert?" Yep, and then some! Armed with 3 forks and 3 spoons provided by our very sweet and friendly, young server we commenced into the cheesecake, chocolate flour-less torte, and molasses ice cream cookie sammie with brandy caramel sauce. They also made great coffee. (Well, we had to wash all that down with something.) This was my first time at Aurora Borealis and I'm sure it will not be my last. It also has the type of atmosphere that works for date night, anniversary night, or a family dinner. Our hosts were outstanding, as well. Kudos in all respects. Now, if you'll excuse me ... I will continue my penitential rite of an extra 45 minutes on the elliptical. read more

I ate at Aurora Borealis during my first trip to Manitowish Waters, and suffice to say I was impressed by both the food and the atmosphere. This place effuses an ideal combination of casual friendliness and class that will make you feel at ease. If you're waiting for a table or sitting by the bar, I'd highly recommend the cranberry mohito. It's made with real cranberry juice (not an oversweet cocktail mix) and the bitterness combines well with the zesty mint. Was also a fan of the Bloody Mary--although I'd only recommend it if you can handle spice!--and for those with a sweet tooth, definitely sink your teeth into the Orange Dreamsicle cocktail. As for the food, I'd recommend starting off with the moist crab cakes, and possibly an order of the duck confit quesadilla, which comes with an amazing, citrusy mango chutney. I ate a salmon dish which was well-prepared over a creamy risotto, and also dabbled in some well-priced bar food throughout my stay. If you're in town, I would highly recommend this place as a great combination of value, service and cuisine! read more

We stopped here for breakfast. I had the biscuit and gravey. It was good but I have had better. The coffee was weak for me but others may like it. Service was good too. read more

Love this place. The Northwoods needed fine dining in a casual atmosphere! Joel and Kevin (owners) have done an amazing job putting quality dishes on the table. I have been 3 times and every time the service is great, the prices are fair and everyone is just so gosh-darn friendly! Things to try: - Signature Drink: Cranberry Mojito - Cheese Curd Poutine (I died, for real. It's amazing.) - Duck Breast - Oinker North and South - Handmade Ravioli - Duck Quesadilla - French-Dip Style Sliders - Buscuits and Gravy (Breakfast) Can't wait to come again. Also, can I mention I love the logo and the branded coffee mugs? Super cute. read more

It was pretty quiet when we stopped in, but that is to be expected on a Monday afternoon for lunch. We were seated by a nice young man who was also our server. I don't think he has served for very long (seemed nervous and like he was following his script) but he was certainly trying! Our order came quickly, but not too fast. Our sandwiches were very good. The burger flavorful with two kinds of cheese, and cooked well . The steak sandwich was juicy and well marinated. The only thing I think would have added something would have been homemade chips. Just to take it up a notch. Overall, it was a nice lunch. ** This review is from 7/2011 - it just got stuck in my Yelp account! read more

Finally! Weekends are crazy here, but week days...perfect! Great service, great good! Try the 5 spice French toast...wow!

Bar none, this is best breakfast experience in the north woods. Usually have Eggs Benedict, but menu updates and ended up with the best breakfast burrito EVER!!!! Glad you will be open during snow mobile season!!!! read more

I was floored by our first experience here. The food was amazing and our server Dawn was so friendly. We've have a family cabin in the area and I wish we would've found this place sooner. Unfortunately we've ran into a few spots in the area where the food was good but have had servers that make you feel like you're an inconvenience. So awesome to find both fantastic food AND service at Aurora Borealis. Can't wait to visit on a regular basis! read more

Great fish fry and crab cakes. Ordered food to go last week twice because we were so impressed.Quick and yummy.

We were driving along after a days outing in the north woods. Found this place totally by accident. Its a gem hiding in the woods, disguised as a rustic eatery. This place has fantastic quality food, that is not just fish fry. The food is fresh, and modern.. and its amazingly prepared. To have amazing Poke in the middle of the North Woods is flabbergasting. Service is pleasant, and attentive, as it should be. Make no mistake. This is gourmet fare, with great wine pairings. If your looking for another fish fry, keep driving. Thank you Chef!! read more

What a gem! I have visited Manitowish Waters for the past few years, but only recently dined at this fantastic restaurant. There are fish fry establishments galore in northern WI, but nothing quite like this. Fresh, innovative, and totally yummy. I dream about the fresh pea bruschetta! Thank you chef! read more