Chicken bacon wrap in a basket with fries

The Goose and Gander opened in early February to rave reviews and continues to grow a loyal clientele. Previously known as The Elias Inn Supper Club, the owners reimagined the space and menu. As described from their Facebook page, the Goose is a “German-style pub and grill serving a full menu of from-scratch dishes PLUS the original Friday Night Fish Fry!” Indeed! The restaurant is open Wednesday-Saturday. Fridays they only serve from their fish fry menu, which I haven’t experienced since they reopened…yet. The buzz in town is real. That fish fry is a must.

Atmosphere

The space is reminiscent of the supper club days with rich wood, low lighting, and heavy furniture. It’s cozy and familiar, yet modernized. The bar area is separated from the dining room, but the bar room includes several high-top tables for dining.

Bar room at Goose and Gander Pub & Grill in Watertown Wi Dining room of Goose and Gander Pub & Grill

Food

The menu is rich with options. The sandwiches and wraps aren’t your average handheld. They include delicious from-scratch sauces and toppings that elevate pub food. I recommend browsing the menu in advance so you can enjoy conversation once seated.

The reviews below are from two separate visits where everything was spot on.

My first visit was with my husband, where we had cocktails at the bar prior to being seated. The atmosphere was perfect, and the drinks were arguably some of the best we’ve had. We ordered from their seasonal drink menu, so there’s no guarantee this exact combination is available. Be sure to check their specials for some delightful flavor combinations. The drinks we chose were a strawberry mojito and maple bourbon old fashioned.

cocktails sitting on a bar with the background blurred

We also chose an appetizer of zesty pickle fries with homemade ranch dipping sauce. If you like pickles, you’ll LOVE these. I’ve never had this cut of pickle fried before. On point!

Fried pickles in a basket with dipping sauce

For dinner I chose the Signature Chicken Sandwich – broasted chicken breast on ciabatta with smoked bacon, avocado chimichurri, crushed potato chips, lettuce, tomato & mayo. My husband chose the Flank Steak Sandwich – soy & Worcestershire marinated flank steak, sliced thin on ciabatta with Swiss, mushrooms & caramelized onions. They were as good as they sound! Both came with fries, cooked to perfection.

steak sandwich in a basket with fries

Our second visit was more handhelds for the group, and I ventured into the pastas. First up, the chicken, bacon, avocado and ranch wrap. Rave reviews on this one!

Chicken bacon wrap in a basket with fries

Two other diners chose the Signature Chicken Sandwich. This time grilled versus broasted. My husband is still talking about the avocado chimichurri topping the sandwich.

chicken sandwich and fries in a basket

I was feeling pasta and chose the wild mushroom stroganoff. It was lovely and I made myself save some for the next day. It was just as delicious as leftovers.

noodles in a white sauce with a fork in the bowl.

Overall

It’s just a cool place to be. The food is great, the atmosphere is a vibe, and it is busy! We could tell by the dress of the patrons that many were there for special occasions, yet the prices don’t dictate that you save up for that special night. Grab some friends and have a memorable evening at The Goose!

About the Author: Robin Kaufmann

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