The Lakely

About This Spot

Stepping into The Lakely is like slipping into a warmly lit haven where jazz melodies meet the quiet hum of engaged conversation. Nestled in the heart of Eau Claire, this cocktail bar and live music venue balances an intimate vibe with an inviting energy that's both relaxed and vibrant. Whether it’s an evening out with friends or a thoughtful first date, the place feels unhurried yet alive, where every detail—from the gentle sway of a saxophone to the subtle clink of glassware—invites you to linger.

The atmosphere is shaped by more than just music. The Lakely draws a steady flow of local musicians who bring freshness and promise to the stage, crafting moments that underscore the genuine spirit of the Chippewa Valley. These performances aren’t just background noise; they unfold like living stories set to rhythm and melody, enhancing the space with a creative pulse that feels woven into the very fabric of the room.

Food and drink here move beyond simple sustenance to become part of the shared experience. With an eye toward elevated comfort, dishes range from thoughtfully prepared small plates to boldly crafted cocktails, each thoughtfully designed to complement the mood without overwhelming it. Whether it’s the indulgent warmth of bone marrow appetizers or the satisfying crunch of Lakely fries, the menu encourages slow savoring alongside lively conversation.

This is a spot where the staff’s attentiveness adds a personal touch, creating a welcoming environment where guests don’t just feel served—they feel seen. Uptown charm blends effortlessly with a neighborhood’s sense of belonging, making it a natural gathering place that quietly but confidently celebrates the communal joy of good music, good food, and genuine company.

What’s Available Here

Identifies as women-owned

Outdoor seating
Delivery
Takeaway
Dine-in

Great beer selection
Great cocktails
Great wine list
Live music
Live performances

Solo dining

Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Dancing
Food
Food at bar
Happy-hour drinks
Spirits
Wine

Seating
Table service

Toilet
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi

Casual
Cosy
Romantic
Trendy
Upmarket

Groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Tourists
Transgender safe space

Credit cards
Debit cards
Credit cards

Free of charge street parking
Parking

Location & Hours

Monday	Closed
Tuesday	05:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday	05:00 PM - 02:00 AM
Thursday	05:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Friday	05:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Saturday	05:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Sunday	Closed

Guest Reviews

Libby Thomassen 11 Dec 2025

Husband and I went here on a Tuesday night, on a whim, having had dinner elsewhere and wanting dessert and mocktails. We knew there may not be dessert, but we asked the waitress, and she had the courtesy to check with the chef. She came back and said they happened to have their pastry chef preparing to debut a dessert for that week and would we like to be the first to try it. We said yes, and the chef himself came out to serve it to us and explain it: a chocolate flourless tort with berry sauce, orange-infused whipped cream, and an Amish-style cashew and pistachio brittle with cayenne pepper. We started nibbling each component and then realized that this dessert was very well-contrived, as each element makes you seek the next. The salty sweet brittle leads to a smoky heat that is perfectly complimented by a bite of the dark chocolate and a swipe of the whipped cream. Lovely. Not too heavy, not too rich. The kind of dessert that is memorable and that you savor while you eat it. We were asked directly by the chef what we thought about it and we were able to give him our compliments. It was just a lovely experience. I would like to come back for dinner on a Friday or Saturday when they have live music.

Janine 04 Dec 2025

This is our second time at The Lakely. We didn't have food, only drinks. They had a jazz band, and it was actually a very good band. All young, talented, promising musicians from Eau Claire. They do live music every Friday as well some other days, too. Would love to try again next time.

Paige Gubbrud 09 Oct 2025

Their live music is exceptional. Josh Gallagher and Jeremy Boettcher are top notch talents and we are lucky to have them providing live music in the Chippewa Valley. Unfortunately, the food and service are just ok. When we first moved to the Chippewa Valley, we would go out to eat elsewhere and then come for a few drinks and the live music because the food was not great. Then about 2 years ago, they updated their menu and we really liked it. About a year ago, they updated their menu again and it's back to going out to eat somewhere else and coming for just the music. If I'm spending $120 (before tip) on dinner, I expect tastier choices, better preparation, more attentive service, and my meals to arrive within a reasonable time of each other. (One member of our party got their meal and had completely finished it--eating slowly so as to try and wait for us-- before the other 3 people were served. ) Throughout the meal our water glasses sat empty and our server only came back to our table once in the hour it took to get our meal. Just really a mediocre dining experience with exceptional live music. We'll definitely be back...but only for the drinks and music. My son has really enjoyed their seasonal mocktails and I have enjoyed some of their house-special cocktails. We'll eat somewhere else before we come. Please fix your menu and service because we would like to come and enjoy your food. It's a lovely venue, your atmosphere is great and we enjoy your music.

Addison Galloy 26 Sep 2025

Love the vibes here!! Honestly probably my favorite place to dine and work. Everything on the menu is superb. Small app to Entrées + Desserts!! Definitely upscale. Great for a first date or a reunion! Live music on Friday and Saturday! Come check us out!!