Valley Burger Company

If you are looking for a place where classic American cuisine meets homey comfort, then Valley Burger Company will be a real discovery for you. This cozy family restaurant, located in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, USA, quickly won the hearts of locals and travelers alike thanks to its honest approach to food and hospitality.

The establishment is set in a historic former sawmill building, which gives the interior a special character and authenticity. Since opening in the spring of 2022, the restaurant has focused on using local ingredients to create craft burgers that many call the best in the city. High ratings and hundreds of positive reviews confirm it: they know exactly how to find the right combination of flavors here.

Valley Burger Company is not just a fast-food spot, but a full-fledged space for casual dining. A concise menu, attention to detail, and a family atmosphere make it the perfect place for lunch before a hockey game or a walk in the park. Here, traditions are valued, but the team isn't afraid to add their own creative touches to familiar recipes.

For your convenience, we have gathered the main contact information for the establishment in one table. This will help you quickly find your way, book a table, or check availability before your visit.

The main reason to visit Valley Burger Company is, of course, the gastronomic experience. Be sure to try their famous fried onion burger, where the onions are smashed directly into the patty, creating a unique flavor. For lovers of the classics, the signature burger on a soft sesame bun with secret sauce is perfect, while those who appreciate local products should try the burger with real Wisconsin Colby cheese.

The sides also deserve special attention: the fries are hand-cut, and instead of a typical mayo-based salad, they serve a unique pink-slaw—a zesty cabbage in a vinegar dressing that perfectly complements the meat. At the bar, you can always find rotating craft beers from Wisconsin breweries and refreshing seasonal cocktails.

Thanks to the family-friendly format, visitors of all ages will feel comfortable here. The interior of the converted sawmill invites pleasant conversation and the creation of warm memories. Many tourists combine a visit to the burger joint with a trip to the nearby ice center or a walk along the paths of Carson Park, turning lunch into part of a larger city adventure.

Getting to Valley Burger Company is easy, as the restaurant is conveniently located at 1004 Menomonie St. This spot is right next to popular city landmarks like the Hobbs Municipal Ice Center and the scenic Carson Park. If you are in downtown Eau Claire, the drive will take only 5–10 minutes. Convenient parking is available nearby for guests with cars.

If you prefer public transport, use the Eau Claire Transit bus system, with stops located within walking distance of the establishment. Taxis are also readily available from any part of the city. For those arriving from other regions, the nearest hub is the Chippewa Valley Regional Airport (EAU), which is about a 20-minute taxi ride away.

For those who enjoy walking, the restaurant is easily accessible during a visit to the neighboring Carson Park or a stroll along Water Street. To find the most accurate route, we recommend using online maps by searching for the address or the restaurant's name.

The history of Valley Burger Company is inextricably linked with the city's industrial past. The establishment occupies a historic former sawmill building, which for many years served as a local meeting spot when it housed Rolbiecki’s Rinkside Bar & Grill. In early 2022, the building was purchased by Ryan McCown, who had long cherished the dream of turning this space into a modern burger joint with soul.

The official opening took place on April 13, 2022. The project was the result of the combined efforts of three friends and professionals: owner Ryan McCown, general manager Tyler Conway, and kitchen manager Claudio Elizalde. Claudio, who moved from Oregon at the invitation of his high school friend Conway, brought his unique vision and high quality standards to the menu.

One interesting culinary tradition revived by the creators is the technique for preparing the fried onion burger. This method of smashing onions directly into the meat patty originated during the Great Depression as a way to stretch the meat supply, but over time it became a gastronomic hit thanks to the incredible aroma and juiciness the onions impart to the dish.

Today, the restaurant continues to grow, focusing on supporting the local Eau Claire community. The owners take pride in the fact that almost all their ingredients are sourced from Wisconsin farmers, making every visit a small contribution to the local economy.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere and cuisine of Valley Burger Company, most guests find 1 to 1.5 hours sufficient. This is plenty of time to place an order, wait for a freshly prepared meal, and enjoy it at your leisure.

If you are planning a visit with a large group or want to complement your meal with a rotating craft beer, your stay may be a bit longer. The establishment is ideal for both a quick, high-quality bite and a relaxed family dinner before heading to evening events at Carson Park.

The working hours of Valley Burger Company allow you to stop by for both an early lunch and a late dinner. On weekdays, the doors are usually open from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM (until 10:00 PM on Wednesdays), and on Friday and Saturday, the restaurant is open until 10:00 PM. On Sunday, the establishment closes a bit earlier—at 8:00 PM.

As operating hours can change depending on holidays or private events, we recommend checking the current schedule on the official website or by phone before your visit.

A visit to Valley Burger Company can easily be combined with sightseeing around the city. The area around the restaurant is rich in historic mansions and beautiful industrial sites that allow you to learn more about the culture and architecture of Wisconsin.

A stroll after a hearty lunch will lead you past the historic homes of famous residents or allow you to enjoy river views from one of the bridges. Below is a list of interesting places located nearby: