The drive down to Pepin, WI on 35 in Wisconsin is beautiful once you get south of Prescott, especially once the colors change. Small towns along the way like Stockholm are a great place to stop, stretch and shop. Once you arrive in Pepin, WI at the Harbor View Cafe, you are "greeted" by Pepin's version of Seinfeld's Soup Character (citysearch won't let you use the Na_i word). The epitome of a task master (quote: stay within earshot, I won't come looking for you or call your name twice" and "look at the menu to make sure you like it so you don't sit down, hold up a table, and then change your mind"), hosts the joint with Teutonic precision. Once seated, the friendly but fast paced waitstff (are you done with your salad so I can bring your entree?) cheerfully serves you. The food reads well on the menu and is executed in comfort food style. We didn't experience anything worth driving 2 hours for, but the food was good, the wine list was very good, and the ambiance was pretty nice. Homey, kitschy; and has a good feel (once you get past the Seinfeld Soup Na_i hostess). If you are driving only for the food from the Twin Cities...save the gas. There are plenty of options superior in food quality and service. If you want a nice drive with some fun stops along the way and aren't in a hurry, it's worth the trip.
Pros: Pretty drive down, nice wine list, decent comfort food.
Cons: Hostess has the personality of a drill sargent.
more