The Hilltop
Review
If you find yourself in the Cross Plains area, The Hilltop is a must-visit destination for both its food and atmosphere. This quaint spot may not catch your eye from the outside, but step inside and you'll experience a charming, nostalgic Northwoods ambiance. The warm wood furniture, red napkins, and inviting service transport you back in time, all while serving up delicious, homemade meals that keep locals and visitors alike coming back for more.
Specials and Menu:
The Hilltop offers weekly specials, including their popular Wednesday and Friday Fish Fry. You’ll find classic supper club side dishes like baked or scalloped potatoes, French fries, and a daily veggie. The relish tray appetizer is a standout, offering a delightful start to your meal. The menu features a variety of meats, from tender steaks and juicy chicken to prime rib and walleye, all of which are expertly prepared.
Drinks:
Start your meal with a Korbel Old Fashioned Sweet, perfectly muddled and meticulously prepared. Or, opt for something more adventurous, like their Key Lime Pie Ice Cream Drink—an alcoholic treat that tastes just like pie, something you’ve probably never seen on a menu before but is definitely worth trying.
Meal:
On a Wednesday night visit, we sampled two of the special offerings: the 4-piece chicken dinner with fries and a salad, and fried perch with coleslaw and au gratin potatoes. Everything was outstanding, and you could tell the dishes were made with love and care.
Chicken: Best chicken we've ever had, with a crunchy, seasoned crust that perfectly complemented the juicy, tender meat inside. Four pieces of perfection!
Fried Perch: Lightly crusted, bringing out the delicate flavor of the fish.
Potatoes Au Gratin: Heavenly cheesy and creamy—honestly, they might be the highlight of the meal. My fries were crispy and seasoned to perfection, but I couldn't stop eyeing the rich, indulgent au gratin potatoes.
Salad: The homemade buttermilk ranch dressing was an unexpected treat, with a rich, tangy taste that really stood out.
Dessert:
Dessert at The Hilltop is not to be overlooked. Everything is homemade, and the turtle cheesecake was a standout. The perfect balance of creamy and fluffy, with a crust so good it could be eaten on its own. The portion was huge, almost a pound of cheesecake, making it the perfect way to finish off a truly memorable meal.
Final Thoughts:
The Hilltop is a hidden treasure just 12 minutes outside of Madison. The prices are reasonable, the food is exceptional, and the service is impeccable. With homemade desserts, excellent drink options, and classic supper club fare, it’s easy to see why this spot is a favorite for both locals and visitors. If you’re there on a Friday, don't forget to try the homemade pies, they’re a tradition at The Hilltop! Whether you’re in the mood for steaks, pork chops, or fish, we’re already looking forward to our next visit to try more of their offerings.
Things To Do
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