Been here before, but it's been a very long time. We were passing through the area and looking for a place to eat. It happened to be a very busy weekend, and the Informalist was one of the few places that did not have a long line to get seated. Got in right away and seated for some brunch. The restaurant is spacious and well designed. It's a bit upscale, but perfectly capable of making people feel relaxed and welcome. We got greeted right away by the server and settled in with menus and waters. Our order wasn't complicated: some of the Custard Battered French Toast, a short stack of pancakes, and two eggs. I also ordered a London Fog Tea Latte (a little lavender, a little vanilla, and extra foam). It didn't take long for the food to come, but the London Fog took a while longer. The French Toast was amazingly good, and the pancakes and eggs were also very good. I was half done with my meal by the time my London Fog arrived, and the server was very apologetic (saying that the coffee shop was very busy). I might have been satisfied with that, but the London Fog was just okay. While there was some extra foam, the drink itself was flat, as if they just heated up the milk and mixed it with the tea. (They need to do a better job with polishing the steamed milk so that it creates a creamy texture, especially if they ar charging $8) Overall, a good experience, and a few tweaks would have made it excellent. Would stop again if I was in the mood for the French Toast.
Overview
Located at 205 S Barstow St in Eau Claire, WI, The Informalist offers a unique dining experience that keeps both locals and visitors coming back for more. With its inviting atmosphere and a menu that combines comfort food with a modern twist, this charming diner stands out in the local restaurant scene. Whether you're stopping by for a quick bite or settling in for a leisurely meal, The Informalist promises to deliver a memorable experience.
Upon entering, the first thing you'll notice is the welcoming vibe that makes you feel right at home. The rustic decor, paired with modern touches, creates a cozy yet stylish environment. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring that you feel comfortable and well-cared-for from the moment you walk through the door. Whether you're dining solo, with friends, or with family, you'll find that the atmosphere is perfect for any occasion.
The menu at The Informalist is an exciting blend of classic diner fare and innovative dishes that cater to a variety of tastes. One of the standout items is their famous “Farmhouse Burger.” This dish combines a perfectly grilled beef patty, fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and house-made pickles, all stacked between a soft, toasted bun. It’s comfort food done right, and it never fails to satisfy. But what truly makes this burger special is the addition of their signature sauce, which brings everything together with a touch of spice and creaminess.
For those who prefer lighter options or have dietary restrictions, The Informalist also offers a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free dishes. The "Crispy Avocado Salad" is a popular choice, featuring perfectly fried avocado slices, mixed greens, and a tangy vinaigrette that brings out the fresh flavors. It's a great option for those looking for a fresh, light meal without compromising on taste.
Of course, no diner experience is complete without a delicious breakfast, and The Informalist does not disappoint. Their “Breakfast Burrito” is a fan favorite, packed with scrambled eggs, bacon, cheddar cheese, and a touch of salsa, all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla. It’s a satisfying way to start your day, whether you're fueling up before a busy workday or enjoying a weekend brunch with friends.
One of the highlights of dining at The Informalist is the seasonal specials that showcase the best of local ingredients. Whether it’s a rich and hearty soup in the winter months or a refreshing summer salad using locally grown produce, the chefs at The Informalist are always committed to using fresh, high-quality ingredients. It’s evident that they take pride in sourcing ingredients locally, supporting nearby farmers and producers while also ensuring the highest level of flavor in every dish.
While the food is certainly the main draw, the drink menu at The Informalist is worth mentioning as well. The bar offers a selection of craft beers from local breweries, as well as a variety of wines and cocktails. The “Signature Old Fashioned” is a must-try for cocktail enthusiasts. It’s expertly crafted, with the perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness, making it the ideal complement to any meal.
As for the overall dining experience, The Informalist consistently receives high marks from both locals and visitors alike. The combination of excellent food, attentive service, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a standout in Eau Claire’s restaurant scene. Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch during your lunch break or enjoying a leisurely dinner with friends, The Informalist offers something for everyone.
When it comes to customer reviews, The Informalist consistently receives praise for its exceptional food quality and friendly service. Many patrons mention the attention to detail in every dish, noting that the flavors are always fresh and well-balanced. It's clear that the staff takes pride in providing a top-notch dining experience, which is why this restaurant has become a favorite for many.
If you're looking for a place in Eau Claire where you can enjoy delicious food in a relaxed, inviting atmosphere, The Informalist is the perfect choice. Whether it's your first time or you're a regular, this diner has everything you need for a satisfying meal.
Good to know
Service options
âś“ Outdoor seating âś“ Takeaway âś“ Dine-in âś“ DeliveryHighlights
âś“ Fast service âś“ Great beer selection âś“ Great cocktails âś“ Great coffee âś“ Great dessert âś“ Great tea selection âś“ Great wine list âś“ Serves local specialtyPopular for
âś“ Breakfast âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Solo diningAccessibility
âś“ Wheelchair-accessible car park âś“ Wheelchair-accessible entrance âś“ Wheelchair-accessible seating âś“ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
âś“ Alcohol âś“ Beer âś“ Cocktails âś“ Coffee âś“ Comfort food âś“ Healthy options âś“ Late-night food âś“ Organic dishes âś“ Small plates âś“ Spirits âś“ Vegan options âś“ Vegetarian options âś“ WineDining options
âś“ Breakfast âś“ Brunch âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Dessert âś“ Seating âś“ Table serviceAmenities
âś“ Bar on site âś“ Toilet âś“ Wi-Fi âś“ Wi-FiAtmosphere
âś“ Casual âś“ Cosy âś“ Quiet âś“ Romantic âś“ Trendy âś“ UpmarketCrowd
âś“ Family friendly âś“ Groups âś“ LGBTQ+ friendly âś“ Tourists âś“ Transgender safe spacePlanning
âś“ Brunch reservations recommended âś“ Dinner reservations recommended âś“ Accepts reservationsPayments
âś“ Credit cards âś“ Debit cards âś“ NFC mobile payments âś“ Credit cardsChildren
âś“ Good for kids âś“ High chairs âś“ Kids' menuParking
âś“ Free of charge street parking âś“ Paid multi-storey car park âś“ Paid street parkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
We were staying at the Lismore (double tree) and decided to come here for dinner. We didn’t have a reservation and did have to wait a while - no problem as it was Friday night and busy at the hotel. The atmosphere was excellent, open kitchen, beautiful decor etc. We started with drinks and fries for an appetizer. The fries were crispy and hot with a tasty bernaise sauce. For dinner I got the tater tot hotdish - this was really good. It was a more elevated version of the traditional hotdish. My girlfriend got the lamb and it was just alright. The flavors didn’t work as well together as expected. The side was quinoa spaetzle with mint and root beer glaze that didn’t pair well. Overall it’s worth a trip especially of you are already staying at the hotel. I would try the pizza next time as those looked really good and were ordered at many other tables.
The only right words...we loved it. Wasn't expecting a hotel to have a terrific restaurant. We were so wrong. I would go here even if I wasnt staying at the hotel. We shared the steak, and ate every it. The sauce with it was sooo good. Make reservations for the word is getting out.
Lovely upscale dining experience. Our party’s selection covered the Informalist’s touted speciality, wood-fired pizza, a cheeseburger with French fries and garlic aioli, a ribeye steak, and gnocchi. Everyone was quite happy with their selection. The lemon tiramisu for dessert was sublime!
Hubby and I came here for dessert to celebrate my birthday and (as usual) this place is fabulous! I love the decor. There is always something beautiful to admire. The service is casual and top-notch all at once. We love their food, but we ordered their gluten-free butterscotch creme Brule and a couple of drinks. The pudding was divine and the perfect size to share and enjoy! Give this place a look: the gluten-free items and accommodations are awesome, and the people are lovely. Perfect date!!
Great location, great atmosphere. I’ve visited EC several times and have always wanted to come. On a weekend morning, there weren’t many servers, and although the restaurant wasn’t crowded, it still felt quite busy. I ordered brunch and a Margherita pizza. The food was delicious, but there were a few flaws, like the eggs Benedict being overcooked, with no runny yolk at all.