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Papa Bears, located in Pound, WI, has garnered an impressive reputation among locals and visitors alike. This unassuming bar is celebrated for its surprisingly outstanding culinary offerings, defying expectations for typical bar food. The highlight is undoubtedly their fish fry—customers rave about the perfectly cooked fish that far surpasses what you find at your average establishment. Michelle P. and John Curnutt share their experiences with delightful shrimp and fish dishes, noting the light breading and fantastic flavors.
Moreover, the warm hospitality provided by “Papa Bear” himself, Al, creates a vibrant dining atmosphere. Customers often mention their interactions with him as a memorable part of their visit. The Bang Bang Shrimp emerges as a crowd favorite, receiving high praise from many, including Lori Schultz, who describes it as the best she has ever tasted. Other dishes like potato salad and cole slaw also receive accolades, emphasizing that every aspect of the meal is carefully prepared.
Despite its humble appearance, Papa Bears offers a dining experience that combines excellent food, friendly service, and a welcoming environment, making it a must-visit destination for anyone in the area. It's a place where laughter and great food come together—truly a hidden gem.
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Amenities & More
Service options
- Takeout
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Reviews for Papa Bears
Review highlights
Based on 133 reviewsPublic reviews of Papa Bears highlight its reputation as a charming, unpretentious local restaurant known for outstanding seafood, particularly its fish fry and shrimp dishes. Customers frequently praise the perfectly cooked fish, flavorful sides like potato salad and coleslaw, and the signature bang bang shrimp. The warm, friendly atmosphere is a recurring theme, with many noting the personable and entertaining owner who enhances the dining experience. While the setting is described as modest and straightforward, the quality of food and genuine hospitality make Papa Bears a beloved spot for both locals and visitors seeking delicious comfort food in an inviting environment.
You can't go wrong with their Shrimp or fish on Friday. Lightly breaded, and delicious. Have to say, the owner is hilarious, fun to talk with. Great place with incredible food!
I've fallen for the various "best fish fry" lists, usually crowded places with overcooked fish. Papa Bears wasn't on any list, but it's the best fish fry I've ever had. The fish was cooked perfectly, a potato salad that is best ever, even the cole slaw was outstanding. Papa Bears is a bar; so, don't expect glamour
Drove past last time we were up north....stopped in Today. Up north bar....Food was awesome and service as well!! Nothing fancy, which is fine. Hubby had Bang bang shrimp 5star. I had Perch awesome as well soup, potato salad, beans...everything was VERY good. Staff and patrons very friendly! Will stop in again Thanks Papa Bear!
My wife and I stopped at Papa Bears for dinner with modest- maybe even low expectations. The exterior of the building is nothing fancy and it's possible to drive by without giving it a second look. Similarly, the inside is small and humble. However, what we believed would be a disappointing dining experience ended there. We were greeted by the owner (Papa Bear) with very warm/friendly conversation and we felt welcome almost immediately. While sipping drinks at the bar, we ordered our food- the Bang Bang Shrimp and Beef Tenderloin tips. Both were absolutely fantastic with the shrimp being off-the-chart tasty. Much to our surprise, the food quality and taste can probably rival almost any restaurant or supper club. This is clearly not just another bar offering the standard "bar food" of a greasy burger and deep fried whatever. Although the establishment may give the impression of a 'less than memorable' dining experience, the food and service will not disappoint! Needless to say, we will return.
Papa Bears is amazing! Al is the best, I truly mean one of the best bartenders & owners around! He is so funny and interacts with all his customers and makes one hell of a drink! His daughter Holly is amazing and so is Anna! There bang bang shrimp are absolutely the best I've ever had! Thanks AL and crew for another fun filled day!!
Great bang bang shrimp gor the price!! The owner is very social n outgoing ! Buys a shot when stop in !
Great food & quick bartenders! Staff is always so accommodating.
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