The Lakely

Immerse yourself in the modern Midwest atmosphere at the stylish venue known as The Lakely. Located in the heart of Eau Claire, this spot combines the functions of a conceptual restaurant, a cozy pub, and a nightclub with an emphasis on cultural leisure. Situated within The Oxbow Hotel, it is a magnet for those who appreciate high-quality music and local USA cuisine.

The interior is infused with the spirit of northern comfort, and the menu is based on fresh ingredients from local farmers. One of the main highlights is the famous Koldtbord—a Scandinavian-style smorgasbord reinterpreted with a local twist. Completing the gastronomic experience is a carefully crafted bar menu with an emphasis on craft cocktails and Wisconsin's finest beers.

The Lakely is renowned for its commitment to jazz and live performances. It is a place where you can not only have dinner but also become part of a creative community, relaxing in the courtyard by an open fire or enjoying vinyl sets inside. High visitor ratings confirm the impeccable service and the unique, slightly bohemian atmosphere of this space.

For booking details or event schedules, you can contact the venue directly. The primary contact information is provided below:

Every evening at The Lakely turns into a special event. Start your culinary journey by trying their shareable comfort foods. Visitors highly recommend the signature Klatt Farm Burger, flavorful Lakely Fries, and wild rice pesto pasta. If you enjoy unique flavors, check out the chorizo tacos or crispy chickpea fritters.

The main attraction here is the live music. The club's stage regularly hosts jazz performers, and Open Mic Nights are frequently held on weekdays, where local artists showcase their talents. For fans of intellectual leisure, Trivia Nights are organized, bringing together lively groups for a competitive game.

Don't miss the chance to spend time on the outdoor patio. It features two cozy fire pits surrounded by lounge chairs where you can relax with a craft drink. For active guests, there are areas for lawn games, making the venue an excellent choice for both a romantic date and a fun night out with friends.

The Lakely is located in the heart of the city at 516 Galloway St, as part of the renowned Oxbow Hotel. If you are traveling by car, getting here is easy—parking spaces for guests are available both nearby and at the hotel itself.

For those who prefer public transport, city buses are available, with the nearest stops located just a few minutes' walk from the entrance. You can also always use taxi services or ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft, which are very active in the area. If you are staying in the downtown area, a walk to the club will be a pleasant addition to your evening.

Tourists arriving from further away typically use the Chippewa Valley Regional Airport (EAU). It is located approximately 20 minutes away by car. From the airport, it is most convenient to rent a car or take a taxi directly to the venue's doors.

While The Lakely is a modern space, it is inextricably linked to the revitalization of the city's downtown district. The venue is housed within the renovated Oxbow hotel, which itself serves as a symbol of the new wave of development in Eau Claire, focused on culture, art, and authenticity.

The name and concept of the place reference the aesthetics of northern lakes and forests, which is reflected in the interior design and choice of materials. The creators aimed to build more than just another bar; they envisioned a cultural hub where the spirit of the old Midwest meets the modern jazz scene. This connection to local roots has made it a landmark destination on the city map.

Interestingly, the musical component here is meticulously planned: the venue was originally designed with specific acoustic features in mind for hosting live jazz sessions. Today, it is considered one of the region's best intimate stages, preserving the tradition of live performance in a cozy, almost home-like atmosphere.

To fully soak in the atmosphere of The Lakely, it is recommended to set aside 2 to 3 hours for your visit. This is just enough time to leisurely enjoy a signature dinner and listen to a live music set.

If your goal is to participate in themed evenings, such as Trivia Nights or Open Mic, plan to spend the entire evening here. The cozy lounge areas by the fire on the terrace invite long periods of relaxation, so many guests stay until closing time.

The venue welcomes guests from Tuesday to Saturday, opening in the evenings. Monday and Sunday are the days off. Standard operating hours are: Tuesday to Thursday from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, while on Friday and Saturday, the fun extends until 11:00 PM.

Please note that hours of operation may change depending on holidays or private events. Before visiting, it is recommended to check the official website or call to confirm current information.

Its central location makes The Lakely an ideal starting point for exploring local architecture and parks. A stroll through the neighborhood will allow you to see historic homes and picturesque bridges that define the unique character of this area.

Below are interesting sites located within walking distance: