Cold Iron Brewing is a brewery in Michigan that features small batch cold beers that hit the spot, whether you want to try a flight of new tastes or you’ve got your favorite and want it in a tall, frosty glass. Along with a refreshing cold beer greeting your warm hand, you can always expect friendly service from the staff at Cold Iron.

Plus, if you’re lucky, you’ll also see some pretty adorable wagging tales lying on the cool floor and soaking in the low-key atmosphere. Oh yeah, that’s right, our four-legged companions are more than welcome in Cold Iron Brewing, and they may even get a little treat! (a non-alcohol treat, of course )

The doors to this awesome establishment are open to anyone and everyone. It’s a warming, family-friendly, and dog-friendly place to gather with the ones you love and make some new memories while you’re on Lake Superior. Let’s skedaddle into all there is to enjoy at Cold Iron Brewing so you can start brainstorming your next dawdling adventure!

Where is Cold Iron Brewing?

This fine establishment is located in the heart of Ironwood Michigan, which is about a 45-minute drive from Ashland, WI. — making it a great day trip location for those looking for some refreshing adventure, or if you’re already in the Ironwood area and want to try something new. There are other hidden local gems to discover while you’re in Ironwood; there’s nothing like taking in the Up North air!

Cold Iron Brewing Address

104 S Lowell St, Ironwood, MI 49938

Cold Iron Brewing Hours

Monday – Tuesday: 12 PM – 9 PM

Wednesday: 12 PM – 9 PM

Thursday – Saturday: 12 PM – 11 PM

Sunday: 12 PM – 9 PM

What’s Brewing at Cold Iron Brewing?

A few years ago, while my Husband and I were spending the weekend in Ashland on Lake Superior, we decided to check out a spot that his parents had raved about in the past: Cold Iron Brewing. With Ironwood being a 45-minute drive away, we cranked the tunes and made the trek for a fun and cozy Michigan adventure!

One thing we noticed right away about the interior of Cold Iron was the grand exposed beams, the well-spaced seating areas, and just how spacious yet comfortable the whole setting was. We were happily greeted by the bartender and quickly soaked in the relaxed and cozy vibe.

We started off by picking out a flight of beers to try together, and then we each ordered a glass of our favorites! While we were sipping on our brews and munching on pretzels we brought in, we people-watched and dog-watched and played a few rounds of Rummy, all the while chilling out in this fun, low-key environment.

Cold Iron Brewing is an inclusive establishment that often has awesome events, which you can check out on their website or their Facebook page! We’ll most certainly be going to Cold Iron again in the future and making some more memories, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone who loves a good beer experience.

Wet Your Whistle!

You can’t have a brewery in Michigan without some delicious beer, so let’s see what’s on Tap! Although Cold Iron doesn’t serve food, guests are more than welcome to bring their own munchies.

Key- ABV: Alcohol by Volume. IBU: International Bitterness Units.

• #1 Dank Stank IPA
  • ABV = 6%
  • IBU = 50
• #2 Michiconsin Honey Cream
  • ABV =5%
  • IBU = 10
• #3 Ayer Street Amber
  • ABV = 5.4%
  • IBU = 30
• #4 Drift North IPA
  • ABV = 6.9%
  • IBU = 85
• #5 All Night Out Stout
  • ABV = 4.7%
  • IBU = 15
• #6 Mosaic Blonde
  • ABV = 5.6%
  • IBU = 45
• #7 Drift South Jalapeno Pale Ale
  • ABV = 5.6%
  • IBU = 35
• #8 Leif’s IIPA +
  • ABV = 12%
  • IBU = >100
• #9 Pineapple Guava Pale Ale
  • ABV = 5.2%
  • IBU = 10
• #10 Lemonade Shandy
  • ABV = 5%
  • IBU = 10
• #11 Grapefruit Shandy
  • ABV = 5%
  • IBU = 10

Hard Seltzers are also available at Cold Iron Brewing and come in various flavors at around 5% ABV; check out their On Tap page!

What Folks Are Saying about Cold Iron Brewing

Cold Iron Brewing is a terrific place to gather with family and friends, bring the pups, and have a frosty glass of deliciously brewed beer. But don’t just take my word for it! Here are more buzzing reviews on what’s brewing and grooving at Cold Iron Brewing.

“Met some friends here. Had a great time. Beers were spot on delicious. Bartenders were friendly and knowledgeable. All around great time and a neat space.”

– Tobin T

“We drove over an hour away from our Airbnb to visit this brewery and it was well worth it! Atmosphere was very open and dog friendly. Drinks were wonderfully priced for the amazing quality! Highly recommended the Honey wheat and Drift South Jalapeño ale!”

– Kate

“What an awesome experience!

We give it five stars only because there’s not an option for six! We had the brown ale and the Honey cream. The Honey cream has a sweet, crisp, and, refreshing beginning with a with a light, nutty, almost honey roasted finish. The brown had a deeper rich mouth feel with a molasses esk complexity and sweetness.

And don’t even get me started on the atmosphere! From the inviting large wooden doors out front, to the Foosball table, and the book exchange style library in the corner this place has something to make everyone comfortable!

The staff was extremely knowledgeable and kind. When asked they gave us the run down of what their favorites were!

Overall we had a great time and will absolutely be coming back! Maybe to one of the entertainment events it looks like they host frequently!”

– Kalvin

“Head to downtown Ironwood to stop at Cold Iron Brewing. This massive dog-friendly taproom has lots of great beers, indoor yard games, cool merch, and the nicest staff. I loved their cranberry shandy and Hayden was impressed by the Drift North IPA.”

– Julia S

We hope you got a jump start on planning your visit to Cold Iron Brewing, a cozy place where everyone is welcome to visit and come back again and again. Be sure to follow Cold Iron Brewing on Facebook so you can stay up to date on events and brews, and while you’re there, join our Facebook page!

Until next time, from all of us at On Lake Superior, have a wonderful time on the world’s greatest lake!

These three establishments coexist in deliciousness, nestled into the historic L.C. Willmarth building which is located in downtown Ashland.

There’s a variety of dining experiences and restaurants in Ashland Wisconsin to indulge in while you’re soaking up the lake life on Lake Superior, and if you’re searching for a family-friendly restaurant that doesn’t miss out on deliciousness and cold brews, you’ve hit the jackpot!

With a well-rounded menu, fantastic beer options, a dazzling kid’s menu, and vegetarian options, no matter what your dining group looks like, everyone can find something to enjoy at Deep Water Grille.

Where is Deep Water Grille?

You can find Deep Water Grille, The Alley, and South Shore Brewery right on the historic Main Street of Ashland!

Get into the lake life bustle of Ashland by exploring the downtown streets, wonderful bookstores, and where other fantastic establishments, such as Black Cat Coffee, are just a quick walk away!

Deep Water Grille Address

808 Main St W, Ashland, WI 54806

What’s on the Menu at Deep Water Grille

From Starters to Entrees, there are plenty of mouthwatering options to sink your teeth into at Deep Water Grille, and all at fairly reasonable prices!

Below is a broad list of items that Deep Water Grille currently offers. Sides aren’t included below, but contain traditional sides such as a variety of fry choices, house salads, soup, fresh fruit, and coleslaw. For further ingredients and pricing details, please take a look at their online menu.

Starters

• Spinach Artichoke Dip
• Chicken Wings
• Nachos
• Garlic Shrimp Dip
• Chorizo Stuffed Mushrooms
• Sesame Soy Steak Tacos
• Wisconsin Cheese Curds

Salads

• Thai Sweet Chile Salmon
• Roasted Garlic Pesto Caesar
• Bay City Cobb
• Garden Salad
• Northwoods

Soups

• Nut Brown Ale Beer Cheese
• Chicken Wild Rice & Mushroom
• Soup Du Jour

Sandwiches

• Grilled Chicken Breast
• Black Angus Burger
• Grilled Smoked Ham & Cheese
• Lake Superior Whitefish Sandwich
• Reuben
• Smoked Turkey Wrap
• Smoked Pulled Pork
• Sandwich and Cup of Soup

Entrees (All Day)

• Nut Brown BBQ Smoked Pork Ribs
• Lake Superior Whitefish
• Fettucine Alfredo
• Broiled Jumbo Tiger Shrimp
• Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon
• Jerk Chicken
• Jambalaya

Entrees (After 4:30 PM)

• Parmesan Breaded Pork Loin
• Bleu Cheese Crusted New York Strip
• Shrimp Mac & Cheese
• Pan Fried Pork Loin
• Orange Chicken
• Smoked Ribeye

The Alley Menu Overlook

Moving on over to The Alley’s menu, adjacent to Deep Water Grille and South Shore Brewery, you can expect a delicious classic Brewpub experience! From the brewtastic food choices to the timeless atmosphere, your tastebuds are in for a prime Wisconsin time.

Below is a broad list of The Alley’s menu items. For a more detailed look at their prices and ingredients, please take a look at their online menu.

Featured Items

• Fried Pickles
• Garlic Shrimp Dip
• Reuben Pizza
• Poutine
• Curd Burglar

Starters

• Jalapeno Cheese Curds
• Beer Battered Onion Rings
• Pretzel Sticks
• Beast Fries
• Elote Dip
• Beer Battered Perch Tacos
• Parmesan Truffle Fries
• Spinach Artichoke Dip

Soup

• Nut Brown Ale Beer Cheese
• Cream of Chicken with Wild Rice & Mushrooms
• Soup du Jour

Wings/Sauce/Dry Rub

• Traditional or Boneless Wings
• Buffalo (Sauce)
• Sweet Chili (Sauce)
• Nut Brown BBQ (Sauce)
• Bourbon (Sauce)
• Honey Sriracha (Sauce)
• Thai BBQ (Sauce)
• Garlic Parmesan (Sauce)
• Peanut Butter & Jelly (Sauce)
• Asian BBQ (Sauce)
• Honey Mustard (Sauce)
• Jamaican Jerk (Sauce)
• Cajun (Dry Rub)
• Ranch (Dry Rub)
• Chipotle BBQ (Dry Rub)

Burgers

• Alley Angus Burger
• Wisco Frisco Burger
• Mean Black Bean Burger
• Turkey Wrap
• Bar Burger
• Brew House Burger
• Chequamegon Chicken
• Goober Burger

Sides

• Waffle Fries
• Sweet Potato Fries
• Straight Cut Fries
• Cup of Soup
• Side Salad
• Fresh Fruit

Salads

• Thai Sweet Chili Salmon
• Roasted Garlic Pesto Caesar
• House Garden Salad
• Northwoods
• Bay City Cobb

Brick Oven Pizza (Build Your Own Pizza Options Available)

• Margarita
• The Works
• Madeline Island
• East Ender
• The Three Meat
• Big Bay Bacon Cheeseburger
• Four Cheese
• Asian BBQ Chicken

Entrees (After 4 PM)

• Steak Frites
• Beer Battered Perch Fish Fry
• Grilled Sweet Chili Salmon

Cast Iron Mac & Cheese

• Six Cheese
• Big Popper
• Chicken Bacon Ranch
• Buffalo Chicken
• Asian BBQ Chicken
• The Cook Out

Specialty Drinks

• Banana Old Fashion
• Blackberry Fizz
• Island Martini

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Kid’s Menu Options

Who said kiddos aren’t little foodies themselves? There’s something for every kid, from the picky eaters to the adventurous triers on this Kid’s Menu!

Below is a broad overview of the Kid’s Menu. For prices, please take a look at their online menu.

• Fruit, Cheese, & Meat Plate
• Grilled Cheese with Fries
• Hamburger with Fries
• Cheeseburger with Fries
• Chicken Strips with Fries
• Mac & Cheese with Fries
• Whitefish (Deep-fried or Broiled) with Fries
• Corn Dog with Fries

South Shore Brewery

Also in the mix of Deep Water Grille and The Alley is the cold and the brewtiful South Shore Brewery, which has been a part of the on Lake Superior area since 1995. Currently, the Pilot Brewery and Main Office are located in Ashland, right next to Deep Water Grille, and their Production Brewery & Taphouse is located in Washburn, WI.

“The Deep Water Grille and The Alley are both located in the historic L.C. Willmarth downtown building along with our pilot brewery. They do the food, we do the beer. Both restaurants have an enjoyable atmosphere, unique and creative cuisine for all appetites, and menu choices that creatively use our beers: Beer Cheese Soup (Nut Brown Ale), Pale Ale Onion Soup, Braised Onions and Poultry Marinade (Pale Ale), and our homemade Apple BBQ sauce.​”

– South Shore Brewery Website

It’s all part of the dining experience to be in the same building as a dedicated Wisconsin brewery that’s crafting deliciousness while you’re enjoying a scrumptious meal yourself! You can take a look at their current beer variety on their website and stop in person to check out what’s on Tap!

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Praise & Hype for Deep Water Grille

It’s always reassuring and inspiring to hear others’ experiences in uncharted territory, especially when it comes to something as sacred as food! Here’s the buzz on Deep Water Grille to get you revved up for your future dinner plans.

“This bar was highly recommended by the locals, and we discovered why.

Our bartender ‘Mike’ was fantastic, and was an excellent conversationalist.

The food was amazing!
I ordered a grilled chicken sandwich that was absolutely delicious. I overheard other patrons discussing how good their food was as well.

The drinks were made perfectly.

The bar is constructed of salvaged pieces from a bar that was demolished. The entire place felt rustic and comforting.

The Deep Water Grill is adjacent to the Alley restaurant, and has something for everyone.”

– T. K

“Loved it, went there for my birthday dinner! Service was great! Food was very good, proportions were filling! Starters we had the stuffed mushrooms, we cleaned the plate! Had the grilled salmon salad, yum! Partner had meatloaf, again very good! Definitely will stop in again!”

– Barabra K

“Excellent restaurant in all aspects! Food was great at a great price point. All with the best, friendliest service I could ever hope for. Every detail of the food was exceptional. The Lake Superior whitefish prepared perfectly, the mac n cheese best ever, and even the mashed potatoes were mind blowing.”

– Michael B

“We had 3 different meals & they were all delicious! Butterfly grilled shrimp, glazed salmon & Cajun whitefish all with wild rice & fresh steamed vegetables & grilled asparagus with the salmon. We also had beer cheese soup that was not too rich & very good. We shared the chocolate lava cake-fabulous! Our service was exceptional with Jonathan our server.
We loved the décor & atmosphere in this older building! Very relaxing!”

– Judy S

Is anyone else’s stomach growling for some brewpub goodness after reading all of those delicious food options? Talk about a pub foodie haven!

Food is a key ingredient in creating a long-lasting memory with those you love. When you make a reservation at Deep Water Grille, you can look forward to gathering around a dinner table in a timeless environment, surrounded by aromas of buttery and savory goodness.

From all of us here at On Lake Superior, we hope you enjoy your lake life experience and have a memorable and tasty time. Be sure to share all about it on our Facebook Community to keep the Lake Superior love thriving and jiving!

Whether you’re on an adventure to seek out the best bars in Wisconsin or you’re heading to Madeline Island to camp at Big Bay State Park, when you’re on the Island, you gotta take a pit stop at the wondrous eclectic castle that is Tom’s Burned Down Cafe. I promise you’ve never seen anything like it; it’s the poster child of one-of-a-kind dive bar experiences in Wisconsin.

Grab a drink with your friends or chat it up with the down-to-earth locals while you pet a dog, and gather around stories and memories in the making surrounded by old treasures and Island time.

Everyone is welcome at Tom’s Burned Down Cafe, and you may even find your new happy place!

What to Expect at Tom’s Burned Down Cafe

Get your cash ready! If you’re searching for a unique experience while you’re on Lake Superior, then this place will make your adventurous heart sing. As you walk up to Tom’s, you’re already feeling this relaxed energy from being on Madeline Island, but when you start to see the humongous canvas tent and the eclectic decor greeting you and leading you inside the bar, it’s truly unlike anything else you’ll experience.

The mixture of music over the speakers, clinking glasses, and a collection of floating voices from the patrons makes for a stellar ambiance while you’re soaking in one of the most unique bars in Wisconsin. There are non-alcoholic options as well as alcoholic drinks, but of course, if you’re craving some chips/pretzels, just ask the friendly bartender! At this establishment there is currently no food being served, but there are bags of snacks available to purchase.

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Seating is scattered around the bar; as you walk in, there are seats along the side by their Merch Shirts, and there are tables and chairs set up around the entire bar, wrapping around toward the back as well. If you’re checking this place out while the sun is still up, you may even be able to find some nice outdoor seating. I encourage you to take your time looking around at all of the amazing decor, thought-provoking and equally hilarious signs, and even floor decor that are plastered all around this eccentric bars on Madeline Island.

Like much of the Island, this is a pet-friendly establishment. While you’re mingling or people-watching, you’re very likely to see a pup or two taking in the local scene as well. What more could you ask for, honestly? A one-of-a-kind atmosphere, awesome service, a local experience, dogs, drinks, snacks, and all on Lake Superior’s largest Island?! It doesn’t get much better than that!

While my Husband and I were here, we snagged a cute table for two on their makeshift stage where usually live music would be played. But since there wasn’t any entertainment scheduled for that night, we got one of the coolest seats in the house! Or, shall I say, tent.

One of our favorite things to do together while we’re dawdling on our adventures is to explore local gems, order some good food/drinks, and play Rummy together. And Tom’s Burned Down Cafe was a magnificent spot for our well-worn cards and happy-camper souls to take a load off!

We loved hanging out at Tom’s because it feels like the equivalent of the coolest treehouse around. The wonderlike atmosphere of being on an Island while at the same time being immersed in this experience of what feels like a makeshift place but actually has so much intention and heart poured into it is truly outstanding. Everyone who’s at Tom’s Burned Down Cafe is there to take a pause from life’s busy and demanding schedule to sit down, enjoy a drink, and slow down.

Tom’s Burned Down Cafe is easily one of my all-time favorite bars I’ve ever had the pleasure of experiencing. And it’s doubled for being on the beautiful Lake Superior!

Where is Tom’s Burned Down Cafe?

Tom’s Burned Down Cafe is on Madeline Island, and conveniently it is a few blocks away from the Ferry! So, if you’re coming for a day trip to Madeline Island, it’s incredibly walk-friendly to take a tip to Tom’s Burned Down Cafe and the other awesome establishments on the Island. While you’re on Madeline Island or looking for an adventure outside of Bayfield, it’s worth the Ferry trip to check out one of the best bars in Wisconsin.

Tom’s Burned Down Cafe Address

274 Chebomnicon Rd, La Pointe, WI 54850

Things to do Near Tom’s Burned Down Cafe

While you’re bumming around La Pointe on Madeline Island, there are plenty of fun and delicious exploring opportunities! After you’re done checking out Tom’s Burned Down Cafe (and have made plans to come back!), here are some other cool spots on the Island you might enjoy.

Grampa Tony’s on Madeline Island

“I’ve been coming here for years. One of the must things to do on the island!” – Tim L

Harry Nelson Rec Center

“They have a nice little playground that entertained my kiddo for about as long as most playgrounds do. There is also a ball diamond, tennis courts, and picnic shelter. They do have bathrooms.” – Wisconsin For Kids Blog

Mission Hill Coffee House

“So much more than a coffee shop. Great coffee, awesome goods!” – Ira M

Madeline Island Candles

“The candles smell so good and are reasonably priced. The garden on the property is also beautiful. Definitely stop by if you are on the island…they have more than just candles, it’s also a gift shop.” – Heather A

Bell Street Tavern, Events, and Lodging

“Had an AMAZING experience here! when all other venues on the island were closed on a Saturday morning, we saw the tavern lights on and found Michelle who welcomed us with open arms!! She didn’t skip a beat to open early just for us, and her generosity and kindness was just what our group of tired moms needed to brighten our day. Service was exceptional, the tavern was warm and cozy. Next time we’re going to rent the condo units upstairs for the full experience!! Thank you Bell Street Tavern!” – Melissa T

These are just a few things to do on Madeline Island; please be sure to check out the map for yourself and see what looks groovy to you!

I hope while you’re on your search for dive bars in Wisconsin and or the BEST bars in Wisconsin, you take a journey to Tom’s Burned Down Cafe because it is most certainly worth it! Be sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on their future events and entertainment schedules. You never know who may be playing at Tom’s, and you can make a trip out of it!

Wherever your travels take you, may they bring you to the darling and adventurous experiences you can only find on Lake Superior.