Pete's Garage Bar

If you are looking for a place with a unique character, Pete's Garage Bar is exactly what you need. Located in the southern part of Oshkosh in the USA, this legendary dive bar fully lives up to its name, immersing guests in the atmosphere of a real auto repair shop.

Opening its doors in 2005, the establishment became famous nationwide not only for its industrial interior filled with car parts but also for the specific humor of the staff. It is customary here for bartenders to interact with a touch of light irony and sarcasm, making a visit to "Pete’s Garage" an unforgettable adventure for those who appreciate sincerity and a lack of pretentiousness.

The venue is rightfully proud of its "Best Burger in Oshkosh" title, which it has held for eight consecutive years, as well as its title as the best dive bar in the country. It is a favorite spot for locals of all ages, where American pub classics are combined with cozy chaos and a friendly, if slightly edgy, atmosphere.

For your convenience, we have compiled current contact information for Pete's Garage Bar. We recommend checking for table availability or takeout options by phone.

The main reason to visit "Pete’s Garage" is, undoubtedly, the gastronomic experience. Be sure to try the signature snacks with "automotive" names: "Valve Caps" cheese balls, a massive portion of "Lug Nuts" fries, or the famous "Double Gas Cap" double burger. For the bravest, there is the Pete’s Meat Challenge — a $40 meat challenge that becomes free if you can eat the entire portion within one hour.

Beyond the food, the bar offers great leisure opportunities. You can play darts, watch an important sports game on the big screens, or simply make new friends at the bar counter. Be prepared for the bartenders' sarcastic communication style — it’s the main feature of the place, adding a special charm. And if you want to take home a memory of your visit, the bar sells branded merchandise, such as the popular logo trucker hats.

Finding Pete's Garage Bar is easy: it is located in the southern part of the city at 1514 Oregon St. If you are traveling by car, a nice bonus is the availability of free parking right at the establishment or on the adjacent streets, making the spot very convenient for drivers.

For those who prefer public transport or taxis, the ride from downtown Oshkosh takes just a few minutes. A walk from the central districts to the bar will take about 20–30 minutes, allowing you to get a better look at the cozy residential neighborhoods. This place is especially popular with tourists visiting the city for the famous AirVenture air show.

The history of Pete's Garage Bar began in 2005 in Oshkosh. The owner, Peter Haferman (or simply Pete), has been creating a unique atmosphere here for over 20 years, where the working aesthetic of an auto repair shop meets the hospitality of a classic pub. Over two decades, Pete has become a local legend, personally greeting guests and maintaining the spirit of the establishment.

The bar quickly outgrew its status as a simple neighborhood eatery. For eight consecutive years, city residents voted their burgers the best, which eventually led to national recognition. In 2025, following a major vote, Pete's Garage was officially named the #1 dive bar in the entire United States, firmly establishing its status as a cult destination.

Even during the difficult times of the pandemic, the bar did not lose its popularity. On the contrary, the team's cohesion and the loyalty of regular customers helped the establishment preserve that unique energy for which it is loved by several generations of south Oshkosh residents. Today, it is not just a place to eat, but a true cultural landmark of Wisconsin.

To simply have a snack and a glass of cold beer in an authentic setting, 1–1.5 hours should be quite enough. This time is sufficient to appreciate the unusual interior and taste the city-famous burgers.

However, if you plan to take part in the famous meat challenge, play darts with friends, or just enjoy a long chat with the colorful bartenders, it’s better to set aside 2–3 hours for your visit. It can get quite crowded in the evenings and on weekends, and the atmosphere encourages a longer, more leisurely stay in good company.

Pete's Garage Bar is open to visitors daily, allowing you to enjoy the "Garage" atmosphere during lunch or late at night. The establishment is open seven days a week, offering late-night service.

Exploring the surrounding area after your visit to the bar can significantly enrich your experience of the city. Within a few kilometers of Pete's Garage, you'll find interesting historical sites and family vacation spots.