Black Otter Supper Club

Step inside the Black Otter Supper Club and you’re instantly swept into the classic heart of Wisconsin tradition—wood-paneled walls, a low hum of laughter, and the unmistakable scent of seared beef. Since 1972, this family-owned institution has held court in Hortonville, drawing locals and road-trippers alike with its unapologetic devotion to hearty fare and ritualized Midwestern hospitality. If you come during peak hours, expect a wait; the anticipation only sharpens the appetite. The long bar is where stories are traded over old fashioneds, ice cream drinks swirl in tall glasses, and regulars know precisely when to nab a seat. The prime rib is king here—massive slabs of tender meat that seem almost mythic in size. There’s an almost ceremonial quality to ordering it: choose your cut, brace yourself for the arrival of a plate that dwarfs your expectations, then dive into juicy, perfectly-seasoned beef that sets a new standard for supper club indulgence. Sides like crispy potato skins or parmesan-dusted wedges are more than afterthoughts; they’re essential parts of the experience. The salad bar is a parade of nostalgia—chilled plates piled high with classics, from hot bacon dressing (ask for it by name) to clam chowder thick with potatoes. But what makes Black Otter more than just a restaurant is its role as community anchor. Generations mark milestones here—birthdays, anniversaries, reunions—a testament to its place in local memory. For newcomers and travelers drawn by word-of-mouth legend or sheer curiosity, there’s genuine warmth from staff who greet you like you’ve been coming for years. It’s not about flash or trend-chasing; it’s about abundance, consistency, and the rare comfort of knowing some things are built to last.