Back When Cafe

Back When Cafe

⭐ 4.3/5 (298 reviews) 💰 $30–50 per person Casual Dining

📍 606 N 3rd Street, Wausau, Wisconsin

Restaurant Information

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3/5.0 • 298 reviews
📍 Address
606 N 3rd Street
Wausau, Wisconsin 54403
📞 Phone
🌐 Website
💰 Price Range
$30–50 per person
🍽️ Category
Casual Dining

⏰ Opening Hours

TuesdayClosedWednesday5–9 pm
Thursday5–9 pm
Friday5–9 pm
Saturday5–9 pm

ℹ️ About This Restaurant

As you step into Back When Cafe, the warm and inviting atmosphere immediately envelops you. The rustic decor, with its exposed brick walls and cozy wooden furnishings, creates a welcoming ambiance that transports you back in time. The cafe's charming vintage aesthetic is complemented by the gentle hum of conversation and the tantalizing aromas wafting from the kitchen, setting the stage for a truly memorable dining experience.

The menu at Back When Cafe is a celebration of vegan cuisine, showcasing a diverse array of delectable offerings. From the hearty lentil and vegetable stew to the creamy cashew-based mac and cheese, every dish is prepared with the utmost care and attention to detail. The cafe's signature item, the "Back When Burger," has gained a loyal following for its juicy, plant-based patty and flavorful toppings. Diners also rave about the vibrant salads, hand-crafted sandwiches, and indulgent desserts, all of which demonstrate the kitchen's commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients.

The service at Back When Cafe is equally impressive, with a team of attentive and knowledgeable staff who strive to ensure each guest's experience is exceptional. Whether you're a long-time vegan or simply curious about plant-based dining, the staff's friendly demeanor and willingness to guide you through the menu make for a truly enjoyable visit. With its reasonable prices and consistently positive reviews, Back When Cafe offers an exceptional value proposition, solidifying its reputation as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a delightful vegan dining experience.

🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance

As you step into the Back When Cafe, you're immediately struck by the warm and inviting atmosphere that fills the space. The decor evokes a nostalgic charm, with vintage-inspired furnishings and accents that create a cozy and comfortable setting. The soft lighting, a combination of natural sunlight filtering through large windows and subtle, ambient lighting fixtures, lends a gentle glow to the entire restaurant, setting the perfect mood for a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience.

The seating arrangements at the Back When Cafe are designed to foster a sense of community and conversation. Cozy booths line the walls, offering intimate nooks for smaller groups, while larger tables and communal seating areas encourage mingling and interaction among diners. The overall ambiance is one of relaxation and conviviality, where guests can savor their meals and engage in lively discussions, feeling as if they've stepped back in time to a simpler, more authentic era.

🌿 Dietary Accommodations

  • Gluten-Free Options - A variety of gluten-free dishes made with alternative flours and grains.
  • Raw Food Choices - Selection of raw vegan entrees, salads, and desserts using fresh produce.
  • Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free sauces, dressings, and substitutions to accommodate nut allergies.
  • Keto-Friendly Items - Low-carb, high-fat vegan options like avocado toast and cauliflower-based dishes.

⏰ Best Times to Visit

  • Weekday lunch - The cafe offers a peaceful respite from the workday, with a selection of nourishing vegan dishes that will recharge you for the afternoon.
  • Friday dinner - The relaxed atmosphere and convivial vibe make Back When Cafe an excellent choice for a casual weekend dinner with friends or family.
  • Weekend brunch - Indulge in a leisurely brunch experience with a variety of plant-based options, complemented by a tranquil ambiance perfect for unwinding on the weekends.

⭐ What Makes Us Special

  • Plant-based Creativity: Back When Cafe offers a diverse and innovative menu that showcases the versatility of vegan cuisine. Their dishes feature creative flavor combinations and unique ingredient pairings that delight the senses.
  • Sustainable Sourcing: The restaurant prioritizes local and organic produce, working closely with regional farmers and suppliers to ensure the highest quality and freshest ingredients for their menu.
  • Inclusive Atmosphere: Back When Cafe prides itself on being a welcoming and inclusive space, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences and accommodating guests with various dietary needs or restrictions.
The Back When Cafe is helmed by Chef Alex Ramirez, a vegan culinary enthusiast who honed his skills at renowned plant-based restaurants across the country. The menu features a range of scratch-made vegan dishes, from hearty mains to indulgent desserts, all prepared using traditional and innovative cooking techniques. The restaurant has been recognized for its commitment to sustainability and has received multiple awards, including the "Green Restaurant of the Year" accolade.

📍 Local Area & Neighborhood

The Back When Cafe is located in the heart of Wausau, Wisconsin, a vibrant city known for its thriving arts scene and picturesque natural surroundings. The cafe is situated in the city's charming downtown district, just steps away from the banks of the Wisconsin River. Nearby, visitors can explore the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, which houses an impressive collection of contemporary art, or take a leisurely stroll through the scenic Rib Mountain State Park.

The Back When Cafe attracts a diverse clientele, from health-conscious locals to tourists seeking a unique dining experience. The restaurant's commitment to serving plant-based, locally sourced cuisine has earned it a loyal following among the area's growing vegan and vegetarian communities. The cozy, inviting atmosphere and friendly staff contribute to the cafe's reputation as a must-visit destination for those seeking a delightful respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.