Thirsty Whale

We’ve been coming to the Thirsty Whale as a family for many years and have always had amazing food and service! This time was extra special because my boyfriend coordinated with my family to propose to me in Minocqua, then he surprised me with a dinner with all of our family at the Whale! Ella, our server, and the manager were exceptional!!! They were so helpful, kind, and excited for us. They took care of my family like we were their family and ensured that we had an absolutely perfect time. They allowed us to rearrange tables so we could all be together, Ella even put on my favorite music on the jukebox when we were walking in to the restaurant! It was so special. Somehow, they even arranged for a rainbow to appear overhead so we could get some photos!! :) Thank you to Ella and to the management at the Thirsty Whale!!!!

Pretty dang good traditional American cuisine. Excellent burgers and sandwiches. Tasty crispy french fries. Fresh tasting appetizers, nothing to blow your mind but solid fried Wisconsin fare. Service was quick and friendly despite being very busy. Prices were acceptable and portions were satisfactory. Have been here twice, and will likely come again.

I can't speak to the service or food as we visited 3 consecutive nights without getting a table. First night: we arrived at 6:10 and the kitchen was closed. Second night: taco Tuesday so the kitchen was closed. Third night: we're told it would be a 30 minute wait but the call came after 65 minutes and we had moved onto another dinner option. Maybe someday the whale won't be thirsty, but it's not today. 🍻

Classic Minocqua! Been going by this place for 30+ years. The views on the water are great, and there was even a water ski show happening when we were there. It was Friday night so the place was extremely busy. Staff was friendly and kind dispite being understaffed and over-worked during Covid. The food this trip was just ok. I had a burger and my husband had whitefish sandwich. Both were fine but nothing special.

We have been going to the Whale for years and have had consistently good food. But be aware of some policy changes like adding some chips and charging you for a dinner if you order an appetizer for your lunch, charging for the dipping sauce on a cheese curd order (really?), and automatically placing your drink order as a double without asking and then upcharging. We did have one dinner removed from the bill as service recovery. Now I know why there are signs telling you to not complain as you arrive and leave. There are other options in town.