Eating Our Way Through Rome: Hoozels at the Lakes

What an interesting name; Hoozels. 

Wondering where it came from? Don’t try to look it up online, cuz it isn’t there. All you’ll find is an invitation to visit and ask your server.

So, that’s what we did. We asked Ali, and she was happy we did, and happy to answer. Sorry, but you’ll have to do the same, because it’s a story best told by them. 

But I really shouldn’t apologize. In fact, you’ll be thanking me once you experience Hoozels for yourself.

This is the point where one would usually drone on about how good their food is. Like the Poppin’ Cowboy Burger - a 1/3-pound burger topped with jalapeño cream cheese, bacon, cheese, onion rings, and sriracha served on a garlic buttered pretzel bun. Or their Ribeye Steak Sandwich - perfectly seasoned and topped with mushrooms, onion, house-made garlic cheese spread on a hoagie bun. But I’m not going to do that.

I normally would, but I’d rather talk about how Hoozels’ atmosphere is cheerful, clean, and bright. How it’s evident that they pay attention to the details and pride themselves on delivering a quality, family-friendly experience. Every time. 

And how the service is what we all hope for when we go out to a bar or restaurant. No, it’s better. Way better. Remember Ali from earlier? Ali is a delightful, attentive server who likes her job. You know, the kind that gets satisfaction from making sure your experience is the best it could possibly be. 

And I’d be remiss if I didn’t tell you about their award-winning Bloody Mary. Garnished sky-high with the requisite pickle and celery, but upstaged by pickled asparagus, pepperoncini, mushroom, a Brussels sprout, and even a smoked mozzarella cheese stick, and a beef stick leading the way at the tip of the skewer. I knew going in that they had a good Bloody, but this is crazy good!

I could go on and on about all the things that make Hoozels special, but again, I’m not going to. You should go find out for yourself. And when you do, don’t forget to ask about the name.

Hoozels is located at 1497 Alpine Drive in Rome, Wisconsin.

Written by: Lydell Capritta