Finding the perfect cheeseburger in Wisconsin means accepting that greatness often hides in unexpected places.
Ferry Xing proves this theory beautifully — tucked into a 500-person town next to a free ferry crossing, this unassuming tavern competed against over 5,000 burger nominations in the Wisconsin’s Best Burger Contest and cracked the elite eight finalists in 2024. That’s the kind of achievement that separates tourist traps from legitimate destinations.
What makes a best cheeseburgers Wisconsin contender? It starts with quality ingredients, continues with skilled preparation, and ends with that indefinable magic that turns a good meal into a memorable experience. Ferry Xing nails all three. 🏆
What Makes This Juicy Wisconsin Cheeseburger Different?
Ferry Xing Bar & Grill in Merrimac serves the kind of Wisconsin cheeseburger that doesn’t just satisfy hunger — it creates memories.
This ferry-side tavern has quietly earned a reputation for serving one of the best cheeseburgers Wisconsin has to offer, drawing visitors who plan entire Lake Wisconsin adventures around stopping here for lunch.
The secret starts before the burger even hits the grill: fresh, hand-pattied beef that’s never been frozen.
Ferry Xing uses a small flattop grill where each 1/3-pound patty gets individual attention. This isn’t assembly-line cooking — it creates crispy, caramelized edges while keeping the interior juicy and packed with beefy flavor.
Then comes the bun situation, which honestly deserves its own standing ovation.
That super soft, grilled bun has become legendary around these parts.
Customers specifically mention how perfectly it’s toasted — golden and slightly crispy outside, soft enough to compress without falling apart when you bite into a loaded burger. 🔥
The cheese options at this Wisconsin burger spot give you flexibility: American, Swiss, cheddar, or pepper jack — four solid choices that each bring something different.
American delivers that classic experience. Swiss adds earthiness that pairs beautifully with mushrooms.
Cheddar brings sharp, tangy notes. Pepper jack adds subtle heat and creamy texture.
The Ferry Xing Cheeseburger Menu Experience
Customers have driven miles out of their way just to experience what one reviewer called “the best cheeseburger I’ve ever eaten in my life!”
That’s not marketing hyperbole — that’s genuine enthusiasm from someone who’s tasted enough burgers to know the difference.
The portions are generous enough to satisfy serious appetites, with some admitting they couldn’t finish their massive burgers (though they certainly tried their best).
These aren’t dainty sliders; they’re serious handheld meals.
The customization options let you build your perfect classic Wisconsin cheeseburger — fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, crispy onions, pickles, plus bacon or mushrooms if you want to go the extra mile.
The kitchen doesn’t rush your order; everything gets cooked fresh when you place it. That means your burger arrives at your table exactly the way it should — hot, juicy, and worth every second of the wait.
Want heat? Try adding the Five Alarm sauce for a fiery kick that complements the beef beautifully without overwhelming its natural flavor. 🌶️
The Top-Rated Wisconsin Cheeseburger Joint Atmosphere
Walking into Ferry Xing feels like stepping into authentic Wisconsin tavern culture that’s increasingly rare.
Dollar bills paper the walls, creating that lived-in atmosphere that tells you this place has history and character.
Pool tables beckon from the corner, and dart boards see regular action from locals who’ve made this their second home.
The vibe strikes that perfect balance between cozy neighborhood bar and lively entertainment venue — equally appropriate for a quiet solo lunch or a night out with friends. 🎯
The small interior brims with charm you can’t manufacture.
It’s dimly lit in that comfortable way that makes you want to settle in, with friendliness that welcomes everyone.
Miss Pac-Man awaits nostalgia-seekers, while trivia nights pack the place with competing teams.
The patio offers a wonderful spot to enjoy your burger and cheese curds Wisconsin combo while watching vehicles cross the nearby ferry. 🎮
Beyond the Burger (But Still Worth Ordering)
While the Wisconsin cheese burger steals the spotlight, Ferry Xing’s supporting cast deserves recognition.
Those famous cheese curds hit exactly right — golden and crispy outside, gooey inside, served hot.
They’re Wisconsin in appetizer form, the perfect starter while you’re debating whether to add bacon to your cheeseburger. 🧀
The house-made French onion chip dip has developed its own cult following.
One taste explains why — it ruins store-bought versions forever. Pair it with crispy chips for the ideal pre-burger snack. 🧅
Homemade soups made from scratch daily offer something special beyond the standard tavern fare.
The chicken taco soup and potato varieties earn specific mentions from customers who seek them out.
These aren’t watery, forgettable afterthoughts — they’re loaded with generous portions of ingredients and made with the same care that goes into everything else.
The curly fries deserve their own shout-out as the perfect burger and fries Wisconsin companion.
Crispy, perfectly seasoned, and served hot, they’re what fries should be but often aren’t.
When customers bother mentioning the sides in reviews, you know the kitchen isn’t cutting corners anywhere.
The Drink Menu: Wisconsin Tavern Burger Pairs Perfectly
The bar serves proper Brandy Old Fashioneds — Wisconsin’s unofficial state drink made with care by knowledgeable bartenders.
The draft beer selection complements the food beautifully, with reviewers specifically calling it “delicious.”
Prices remain reasonable despite quality that rivals establishments charging twice as much — multiple customers mention “great prices” and “good value.” 🍸
Food Highlights
- Classic Cheeseburger: The star of the show features a fresh, hand-pattied 1/3-pound beef patty cooked on a small flattop grill for maximum flavor. Choose from four cheese options and load it with toppings, all served on that legendary grilled bun that customers rave about. 🍔
- Mushroom Swiss Burger: This fan favorite tops a juicy patty with sautéed mushrooms and melted Swiss cheese, creating an umami-rich combination. Even hearty eaters struggle to finish these massive burgers, with many saving half for later (if they have that kind of willpower).
- Bacon Cheeseburger: Crispy bacon adds smoky richness to the already excellent cheeseburger base. The generous bacon portions mean you get that perfect salty-savory bite in every mouthful, not just occasional bacon-less bites.
- Five Alarm Burger: For heat seekers, this spicy creation combines the Five Alarm sauce with a perfectly cooked patty and crispy bun. The sauce adds serious kick without overwhelming the beef’s natural flavor, creating balanced fire that keeps you coming back for more. 🔥
- Pepper Jack Cheeseburger: The pepper jack cheese option adds subtle heat and creamy texture. It’s perfect for those who want a little spice without committing to the full Five Alarm experience.
Atmosphere
Dollar bills cover every wall, creating that lived-in tavern charm that tells you this place has history.
Pool tables and dart boards provide entertainment between bites, while Miss Pac-Man awaits nostalgic gamers.
The cozy bar area serves perfectly crafted cocktails, and the dimly lit space makes everyone want to settle in for the evening. The patio offers a wonderful outdoor alternative with ferry-crossing views for nice-weather dining.
Ferry Xing’s spot right next to the Merrimac Ferry isn’t just convenient — it’s destination-worthy.
This free ferry carries vehicles across Lake Wisconsin, making the tavern a natural stop.
Travelers heading to nearby Devil’s Lake State Park frequently make Ferry Xing part of their adventure. 🗺️
The proximity to Sauk Prairie, Sauk City, and Prairie du Sac means strong local support, while visitors from Madison, Milwaukee, and Chicago make the pilgrimage after hearing about the food.
Bottom Line
Why visit Ferry Xing Bar & Grill?
They’re an elite-eight burger finalist serving fresh, hand-pattied 1/3-pound cheeseburgers on legendary grilled buns and offers reasonable prices delivering genuine value. 🎯🍔
Address: 306 Main St, Merrimac, WI 53561
📞 (608) 493-3033
🕐 Mon-Sat: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM (closed Sun)