Ellinor — Restaurant in Appleton

Tucked into a quiet residential neighborhood in Appleton, Wisconsin is a restaurant that redefines expectations:

ellinor

From the moment I arrived, I sensed something special. One of the servers greeted me at the door and, despite being 30 minutes early for my reservation, promptly seated me at the bar overlooking the open kitchen. For someone who appreciates not just food, but the craft of hospitality, this was an ideal vantage point. I had a full view of the chefs at work, the servers’ command center, and a front-row seat to the rhythms of a kitchen that clearly functions as both a creative and safe space. Behind me the dining room that maybe seats 20 people was filled with engaged patrons whose conversation buzzed.

The wine list was my first surprise—exceptionally curated, yet accessibly priced. In most places, I would expect a 3x markup. Not here. The selection invited exploration, with thoughtful offerings for every palate. This list alone deserves recognition.

The menu is small by design—refined and focused—but my server, Sarah, delivered a high-level overview that unlocked the menu’s depth. Her recommendations helped me navigate the choices with ease and confidence.

I began with the roasted hen of the woods mushrooms, served with a matsutake soy. Perfectly seasoned and earthy, the dish was a masterclass in restraint and balance.

For my entrée, I chose the black cod with red curry foam, sesame broccolini, Napa cabbage and English cucumber salad, all atop a delicate miso extraction. Living on the New England ocean, I rarely order seafood away from home—but I’m grateful I made an exception. The cod was flaky, tender, and sweet (as if it had been caught that morning). The broccolini, dressed with a sesame glaze, was cooked to perfection, its texture just beyond al dente. The cabbage and cucumber brought elegance and structure, elevating the dish without overshadowing it.

ellinor is not just a restaurant—it’s an experience. One shaped by intention, precision, and the quiet joy of people who love what they do. If I lived in Appleton, I’d be here weekly. For now, I’ll be counting the days until next year’s convention...

I was in Appleton for work and one of the joys of traveling to places where you might not otherwise ever expect to visit is finding places to eat that unexpectedly blow your mind. Ellinor is one of those delightful restaurants.

Tucked away in a cute neighborhood of beautiful old homes, this is a very-local type of place I wish was near where I live. A pie shaped building, Ellinor is cute and casual.

I was totally comfortable sitting at the bar as solo diner. The lovely server and some of the culinary experts in the kitchen kept me company with casual banter.

That night in August, I had:

Oysters - I had to represent Canada by having the east coast Canadian oysters Roasted cauliflower - delicious with thick cut bacon, Marcona almonds and mint Tomatoes - local heirloom tomatoes were seasonal perfection. They’re to be served atop a goat cheese whipped but they obliged my request for a lighter herbed vinaigrette which was exactly what these tomatoes needed, in my opinion Fjord Trout - served on a patty of crispy sushi rice (which I’m going to try at home), the fish and rice were a good combo. The buerre blanc sauce was maybe too much for my taste but it was an excellent dish nonetheless.

Can you tell I’m not a fan of heavy sauces?

I ended the meal on a perfectly light note with the strawberry dessert, macerated strawberries over a vanilla cream and a generous layer of crumble. Such a summery way end the meal.

The service was friendly and attentive. They made great white wine suggestions for my meal. The vibe is casual and local.

I tried a few great restaurants in Appleton and this one is the best. At the outset I said this place was pie shaped but I should have said cake shaped, because Ellinor takes the cake.

I’ll definitely be back whenever I’m...

Our second time here & it was just as good as the first. Located in a quaint building riding out of a neighborhood. Enjoyed seating at the counter both times. Might try a table next time but we love the counter experience. We called two days before for a Saturday 5:30 reservation. They were already pretty booked so the host guided us to a 5pm reservation after I inquired if that would be better. We arrived just before five & were promptly seated. They have a well curated wine list so we ordered a nice bottle of Sauvignon Blanc to share (it was very reasonably priced I might add). They also have a nice beer & wine by the glass list. We ordered the tuna, winter toast, farro salad, scallops & short rib. The Chef proprietor brought us out our first course pouring the white soy on the bluefin tuna table side. He extended a warm greeting & remember us from our last visit. From there the courses were well timed & kept flowing. This was excellent as we shared each course. The standouts were definitely the short rib & winter toast! Again table side sauce pouring the reduction over the short rib (an elegant touch). The scallops were amazing also(second time we have had them)! We ordered a few pizzas togo for snacking the next day as well an excellent choice as I enjoy a piece now. The staff here is amazing! All are welcoming & warm. I would highly recommend making a reservation & enjoying...