Jen’s Alpine Cafe and Soup Kitchen

"Check Our Facebook For Our Specials!"

About Us

We’re Jen’s Alpine Cafe & Soup Kitchen and we have proudly served Baraboo, Wisconsin since 2001. Jen’s Alpine Cafe & Soup Kitchen is a continuation of the over 95 year old legacy of “The Alpine” in Baraboo. We offer a wide selection of delicious items ranging from breakfast, lunch, desserts, and our Famous Friday fish fry. We take pride in all of our food creations starting with the initial concept and ending with delivery at your table. Sourcing quality ingredients, fine tuning our recipes, making items from scratch, and providing excellent service are our top priorities.

While all of our food is prepared with dedication by our kitchen staff, our soups and desserts are even more special. Jen Rindfleisch is famous for her delicious homemade soups and desserts which she cooks up herself every week.

We invite you to come on in for breakfast, lunch, or Friday fish fry. Don’t forget to order a bowl of homemade soup and a slice of homemade pie!

Our Story

Situated in the heart of downtown Baraboo, Wisconsin, Jen’s Alpine Cafe and Soup Kitchen is not just a restaurant but a cherished piece of local history. The building, originally constructed in 1888 by Jasper Ewing as a livery stable, played a vital role in the bustling commerce of downtown Baraboo. Its original large doorway, once a portal for carriages and horses, still stands as a reminder of its storied past.

In 1925, the building underwent a significant transformation when N.H. Smith purchased it and completed an extensive remodel. The structure was divided into two storefronts, and a new facade was added, setting the stage for its future as a culinary landmark in Baraboo.

By 1930, the western half of the building became The Alpine Ice Cream Parlor and Lunch Room under the ownership of Al Behrman from nearby Portage, Wisconsin. Behrman’s vision included tile counters, cozy wooden booths, and intricate millwork crafted by local artisan Bert Kramer. The Alpine quickly became renowned for serving soft drinks, ice cream, candy, and light meals, with specialties like Behrman’s famous chop suey and chili drawing locals and visitors alike.

Throughout its nine-decade history, The Alpine has changed hands several times, each owner contributing to its legacy while preserving its unique charm. Today, under the stewardship of Jen Rindfleisch, the cafe continues to thrive as Jen’s Alpine Cafe and Soup Kitchen, a beloved gathering place where locals and tourists alike come to enjoy hearty meals and warm hospitality.

Jen’s connection to Baraboo runs deep. She moved to the town from Eau Claire with her father, Bob, who partnered with his brother Jack at the Hiway House. Jen’s journey into the culinary world began at the Country Kitchen, where she started as a cook and worked her way up to manager. Later, she joined her father at the Hiway House, eventually becoming the chef when the business transitioned to her cousin Jack and his wife.

When Jen learned that The Alpine was available for purchase, she eagerly took the opportunity to realize her dream of owning her own establishment. Known for her delicious homemade soups, Jen has continued The Alpine’s tradition of culinary excellence, offering a variety of soups that have become a staple for locals and a highlight for visitors.

Jen’s Alpine Cafe and Soup Kitchen opens its doors at 7 AM on Saturday, Sunday, Monday, and Thursday, serving delightful breakfast and lunch dishes until 2 PM. Fridays are special at Jen’s, staying open until 7 PM to host their famous Friday Fish Fry, a cherished tradition among Baraboo residents. Every meal at Jen’s is prepared with care and dedication, using recipes that have been passed down through generations, ensuring that each bite is a taste of the cafe’s 95-year history.

More than just a restaurant, Jen’s Alpine Cafe and Soup Kitchen is a testament to Baraboo’s enduring spirit and sense of community. With its warm atmosphere, rich history, and commitment to quality, it continues to be a beloved destination where customers feel like family and every meal feels like a celebration.

Areas Served

Our Professional Associations

Downtown Baraboo Inc

What We Offer

Our Specialties include:

Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Specials - Follow Us On Facebook to see our specials week to week!
Friday Night Fish Fry
Family Friendly

Our Services include:

Carryout

Our Products include:

Fish Fry
Vegetarian Options
Homestyle Cooking
Homemade Soups
Homemade Pies
Homemade Granola
Sandwiches
American Cuisine

Testimonials

On 3/28/2025 Jason Schulte had this to say:
This place is like stepping back in time. The look, the feel, all of it. I had an omelet that was amazing. One of my favorite places to go for breakfast in Baraboo.

On 3/20/2025 Karen Semonson had this to say:
Best breakfast ever! Veg omelet, sour dough toast, fruit cup and chick sausage links. My honey had Aloha French toast with apple, pineapple and coconut, scrambled eggs and bacon. Phenomenal

On 3/18/2025 Bob Schreiber had this to say:
Very cute place & worth the stop.

On 3/18/2025 Cory Marie had this to say:
Was there 3.8.2019 , 3.15.2025 Is Okay ...

On 2/28/2025 B Callahin had this to say:
Best broiled cod I have ever had! Homemade soup was amazing. Wonderful eclectic atmosphere! Would definitely go back! Great service, too!

Contact Us

Jen’s Alpine Cafe and Soup Kitchen
117 4th Street Baraboo, WI 53913
Phone: (608) 356-4040
Email: jacsk1930@gmail.com

Located in the courthouse square

Where To Find Us

Payment Types Accepted

American Express, Apple Pay, Cash, Debit Cards, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Our Hours

Holiday Hours May Vary. Please Call For Details.

Monday: 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM Breakfast served all day, lunch served starting at 11:00AM
Thursday: 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM Breakfast served all day, lunch served starting at 11:00AM
Friday: 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM Breakfast served until 3:00PM, lunch served from 11:00AM - 3:00PM, fish fry served from 11:00AM - 3:00PM
Saturday: 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM Breakfast served all day, lunch served starting at 11:00AM
Sunday: 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM Breakfast served all day, lunch served starting at 11:00AM

News

Swing into spring at Jen’s Alpine Cafe! Savor our crispy fish fry and homemade granola, perfect for a sunny day. Our homestyle cooking offers something for everyone. Carryout available!

🌷 Spring Freshness at Jen’s Alpine Cafe! 🌷 Dive into our vibrant American cuisine with fresh, homemade soups daily and delicious vegetarian options. Celebrate spring with our light and tasty sandwiches!

Step into a winter wonderland at Jen’s Alpine Cafe! Enjoy comforting homestyle cooking with vegetarian options. Our sandwiches and homemade soups will warm your soul. Don’t forget to try our fresh granola!

Winter Warm-Up at Jen’s Alpine Cafe! Cozy up with our daily homemade soups, perfect for a chilly day. Try our hearty fish fry or indulge in our famous homemade pies. Dine-in or carryout available!

📅 Every week, Jen's Alpine Cafe and Soup Kitchen features new, tantalizing homemade pies and desserts. Don't miss out on this week's lineup of scrumptious, seasonal delights! Follow us on Facebook for the latest updates and satisfy your sweet tooth with our ever-changing selections. 🥧🍰

Info

Daily Menu

FAQ

Do you offer desserts along with your soups?

Yes! We take pride in crafting homemade pies and desserts. Our desserts and pies change weekly and feature seasonal options and everyday favorites.

What kind of soups do you serve?

Our menu features a diverse range of soups, from hearty classics to innovative creations that cater to all palates, including vegetarian options.

Are your pies and desserts made in-house?

Absolutely! Jen of Jen’s Alpine Cafe and Soup Kitchen prepares the pies and desserts herself.

Do you have seasonal menu items?

Indeed, we do. Our soups, pies, and specials evolve with the seasons.

Do you have vegan or vegetarian dessert options?

Here at Jen’s Alpine Cafe and Soup Kitchen we do our best to accommodate every customer. Our daily soup selection always features a vegetarian option. We are also happy to make modifications to a specific menu item whenever possible in order to accommodate your dietary needs.

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