Monroe County Eats: Locally Owned Restaurants in Sparta, Tomah & Beyond
Monroe County isn’t just the city of Monroe — towns like Sparta and Tomah host a vibrant, flavorful dining scene. These locally owned restaurants bring heart, creativity, and authenticity to every dish. Whether you're grabbing dinner after a showing, hosting clients on a tour, or simply exploring locally, these are the must-know spots.
1. BP Smokehouse BBQ
Tomah’s standout BBQ destination, BP Smokehouse brings smoked perfection to ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and more. Their sides (like smoked mac & cheese and collard greens) elevate the whole experience, making this a frequent “best BBQ” contender in local polls.
2. Murray’s on Main
Located downtown Tomah, Murray’s on Main blends casual and elevated — steaks, seafood, burgers, sandwiches, and pizza. Their gluten-free fish fry and friendly atmosphere make it a go-to for locals and visitors.
3. Smitty’s Overtime Inn
A hometown favorite, Smitty’s Overtime Inn delivers comfort food with heart: prime rib, homemade pizza, ribs, burgers, and classic Wisconsin specials. The warm, relaxed setting makes it a reliable pick any night of the week.
4. Matsumoto Ramen House
Bringing authentic Japanese ramen to Monroe County, Matsumoto Ramen House has quickly become a local gem. Their broth, noodles, and toppings are handcrafted, featuring Tonkotsu, Shoyu, Miso styles, and seasonal specials. It’s a bold, flavorful addition to the county’s dining map.
5. Cancun Bay Mexican Restaurant
Cancun Bay in Tomah adds spice and color with fajitas, enchiladas, tacos, and house margaritas. The portions are generous, and the flavor is bold — a popular go-to for local Mexican cuisine.
6. Mandy’s Cafe & Deli
A warm, friendly spot, Mandy’s Cafe & Deli offers breakfast, lunch classics, sandwiches, soups, and homemade baked goods. It’s the kind of place locals pull out of their regular rotation quickly.
7. Taphouse Twenty
With 20 taps, pub bites, and a comfortable vibe, Taphouse Twenty is a favorite for beer lovers and casual dining in Tomah. Think burgers, wings, and shared plates in a laid-back environment.
8. The Cotter Pin
Just south of Sparta in Leon (Monroe County), The Cotter Pin mixes urban-rustic style with comfort food: pizzas, sandwiches, soups, and salads. Their full bar and cozy interior make this a great dinner stop in the Sparta area.
9. The Greens Restaurant
At the River Run clubhouse in Sparta, The Greens Restaurant offers a casual menu — burgers, sandwiches, salads — with golf course views. Ideal for midday stops or evening meals after a round.
Closing Thoughts
From smoky BBQ and ramen bowls to pub plates and pizza, Monroe County’s local restaurants are proof that small towns can deliver rich flavor and warm hospitality. Whether you’re tasting smoky ribs at BP Smokehouse, slurping ramen at Matsumoto Ramen House, or unwinding with a burger at Taphouse Twenty, each spot adds something unique to the county’s flavor map.
So next time you or a client are touring Monroe County, save room for dinner — these are the places you’ll want to return to. Julie Delap would love to join you for a meal, share her favorites, and help you get a feel for what makes this region feel like home — one bite at a time.
