Departments

Best Diner/Cafe: Little Diner Xpress

Little Diner Xpress owners Rod Bergman and Mike Forrest believe their caring, kind and thoughtful staff, along with a strong customer base, cinched their win in the Best Diner/Cafe category. 

“We provide quality products at a really affordable price point for doctors, newlyweds and high schoolers,” Forrest says, emphasizing that the Appleton diner caters to a wide variety of clientele. 

The diner is open 24-hours and prioritizes organic and non-GMO products including fair trade coffee and sunflower oil for a healthier deep-frying alternative. This philosophy includes sourcing ingredients locally whenever possible. The focus on fresh, organic and healthy food sets the diner apart. 

Forrest recommends trying any of the soups, breakfast sandwiches or burgers. Recently added to the menu is a new build-your-own burger option so guests can customize the burger of their dreams. Start with a hand-patted organic grass-fed beef burger, add your favorite toppings and select a pretzel, brioche or whole wheat bun. –EH

Best Steak

“I really like both the rib eye and the prime rib at George’s Steak House. The flavor is great, and the atmosphere really lends itself to making the evening an experience rather than just a meal.” – Mike Zaves, Appleton

Best Coffee: Copper Rock Coffee Company 

With two Appleton locations, Copper Rock Coffee Company once again locked in the win for Best Coffee in the 2018 Golden Fork Awards.

When it comes to serving the best cup of coffee, owner Bill Heiges explains that it’s all about the highest quality and focusing on the details. There are many nuances to consider such as where the beans are grown and the type of soil in which they are grown. Heiges has worked hard to develop relationships with farmers who produce quality coffee and works with importers to bring in top tier coffee beans. 

“It’s a journey and I never feel like I’ve arrived because I’m always learning and finding out what is working for other roasters,” Heiges says. 

The cafe has something for every taste whether it be the brightness of a light roast or the smooth, velvety finish of a dark roast as well as lattes, mochas and specialty drinks. 

Heiges says his staff plays a key role in the success of the business. 

“We have had a consistent staff for years and years because they have loved working for us,” Heiges says. “I thank my staff for serving consistently good coffee and serving it with a smile. That’s part of the reason that we have gotten voted for so many times since beginning 15 years ago.” –EH

Best Cheese Curds

“I like Milwaukee Burger Company’s cheese curds the best because they are big, cheesy and delicious! We like to order the cheese curd sampler to try all the different flavors.” –Amanda Siergiej, Menasha