Frosted Barrel Dining Experience at Magpie’s in Lake Geneva is barrels of fun

If you're looking for a novel dining experience that's as unique as Chicago’s igloo dining, check out Magpie’s Den & Pen Frosted Barrel Dining Experience in Lake Geneva, Wis. Nestled in this charming lakeside town, Magpie’s offers something truly special: the chance to dine inside an actual barrel. This quirky and cozy setup brings a twist to your typical meal. It’s the kind of dining experience you won’t soon forget. The only thing more surprising than the setting is the food itself. Ready to roll into something new? Here's why Chef Ben and Magpie’s Frosted Barrel Experience in Lake Geneva should be at the top of your dining bucket list

Magpie’s Den & Pen restaurant has teamed up with guest chef Ben Walanka, known for his appearances on “Hell’s Kitchen,”for an unforgettable experience. Walanka's culinary expertise extends far beyond his television fame, boasting an impressive resume in the world of fine dining. On Friday nights, Walanka prepares an upscale five-course prix fixe dinner under the moniker of Chef Ben’s Bistro and serves it to his guests– in a barrel (it’s actually a sauna barrel, but it’s still a barrel).

As you make your way to the back of the property, a beautifully decorated patio welcomes you with twinkling lights and a grand, fully adorned Christmas tree. In the backdrop, four massive barrel structures come into view, each featuring a glass door that provides a picturesque view of the lake. Inside, the barrels are surprisingly spacious, offering bench seating adorned with cozy pillows that exude a warm, homey charm. Soft, ambient lighting enhances the setting, making every detail sparkle, from the gold chargers to the tartan-patterned cloth napkins. Every aspect of the design has been thoughtfully curated for a magical and inviting dining experience.

The menu, which changes monthly, offers a multi-course culinary journey crafted with passion by Chef Ben. Priced at $100 per person, this dining experience requires reservations and showcases the chef’s love for bold flavors and thoughtful presentation.

For December, the menu begins with a first course of ahi tuna and Scottish salmon tartare, enhanced by sesame, citrus, soy, shallots, and crispy lotus root. The second course features tender Diver scallops served over pancetta risotto, paired with butternut squash, mascarpone, and a rich vermouth butter sauce. A refreshing third course follows, with fall greens, baby arugula, poached pears, gorgonzola, and pine nuts.

The fourth course is the pièce de résistance: a perfectly cooked Chateaubriand carved beef tenderloin accompanied by smashed marbled potatoes, French green beans, and a red wine veal reduction. The meal concludes with a decadent dessert a warm Honeycrisp apple bread pudding topped with bourbon caramel sauce and crème fraîche. This exquisite feast, served in the cozy ambiance of a barrel, promises a dining experience as unique as the setting itself.

On weeknights during "non-Bistro nights," Magpie's offers a budget-friendly way to enjoy their signature barrel dining experience. Guests can savor selections from the Magpie’s Den & Pen menu, making it a perfect option for casual gatherings, family dinners, or a midweek romantic date night. Whether you're hosting a book club, catching up with friends, or planning a cozy evening for two, this distinctive setting promises a delightful experience. No matter the occasion or the company, you'll leave well-fed and charmed by the unique ambiance.

If you leave wanting more, don’t worry—Magpie’s has an equally mouthwatering surprise menu planned for New Year’s Eve. Stay tuned for details! Follow Magpies Den & Pen here.

Whether you're planning to sip cocktails with friends or share an intimate dinner for two, dining in a barrel at Magpie’s combines novelty, comfort, and exceptional cuisine. For more information or to make reservations, call 262-249-2302.