Our Story

In September of 2016, the location closed for a total remodel and reopened in January 2017. Owners Grant and Christina Maulsby shaped the space to incorporate the history of the Surf Ballroom, creating a place where their kids and others could come and feel welcomed.

Every plate is a nod to the legendary artists who performed at the Surf Ballroom, served up in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.

Surf District Grill is built around the idea that a meal out should feel like an event, a moment worth lingering over with friends and family. The space draws on rock and roll heritage, pairing a relaxed dining room with the kind of energy that comes from great sound and warm lighting. Every detail, from the menu naming to the wall art, is meant to celebrate an era when music and gathering places went hand in hand. Guests are invited to settle in, order something satisfying, and let the atmosphere do the rest of the work.

The menu leans into classic American comfort with a few creative twists, stacking burgers high and dressing sandwiches with care. You will find hand-formed patties topped with cheddar, swiss, american, and bleu cheeses, layered with crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and tomato on toasted brioche or pretzel buns. Sides range from golden fries and buttermilk ranch dressing to homemade chips, beer-battered onion rings, and Wisconsin cheese curds for something a little different. The kitchen also turns out crispy chicken tenders, smoky wings tossed in buffalo or bbq sauce, and a variety of flatbreads for sharing at the table.

Beyond burgers, the grill offers a wide spread of salads built on fresh romaine and spinach, finished with creamy caesar, honey mustard, or house ranch. Wraps feature grilled chicken, pork, and tender strips wrapped in a soft tortilla, while ribs and ribeye bring a heartier option to the plate. A mac and cheese variation, an artichoke dip, and loaded chips round out the appetizer list for groups looking to graze. Sandwiches range from a classic grilled chicken breast to a smoky pork option, all built with the same attention to seasoning and balance that defines the kitchen.

Music is not background noise here, it is part of the identity, woven into the walls and the weekly rhythm of the space. Live performances turn an ordinary dinner into a night out, encouraging guests to linger a little longer between courses. The connection to a legendary regional music scene gives the grill a story that few neighborhood restaurants can match, and the owners have leaned into that history with thoughtful design choices. Patrons often comment that the soundtrack feels curated rather than incidental, complementing the food instead of competing with conversation.

Families find plenty to love about a visit, from a menu that offers familiar favorites for picky eaters to a setting that welcomes children without feeling like a chain. Plates are generous, portions are shareable, and the dining room offers enough room between tables to keep things comfortable for larger groups. The staff is trained to keep service moving at a relaxed pace, so a family with restless kids can settle in without feeling rushed. It is the kind of place where a weeknight dinner can stretch into a memorable evening without anyone trying too hard.

The design language of the restaurant reflects a handcrafted, boutique approach rather than a corporate template. Warm brick-red panels break up the cream-colored walls, while serif typography on signage and menus adds a touch of classic character. Photography is presented in large rectangular tiles, giving the food and the performers room to breathe on the page and in person. Small gold accents nod to awards and recognition, and monochrome icons keep the overall look grounded. The result is a space that feels curated, lived-in, and distinctly local.

Service at the grill is built on the simple idea that hospitality starts with a genuine welcome. Servers learn the menu well enough to guide first-time visitors and to suggest pairings for regulars looking to try something new. The bar program complements the kitchen with cold beer, a thoughtful cocktail list, and nonalcoholic options for those who prefer them. Guests can expect attentive care without the stiffness of formal dining, striking a balance that works for a quick lunch, a celebratory dinner, or a relaxed night of live music with friends gathered around a booth.

For travelers and locals alike, the grill has become a destination that captures the character of the surrounding community. Its ties to a beloved music venue give visitors a reason to stop in beyond the food, offering a small piece of regional culture along with a satisfying meal. Whether someone arrives for a burger after a long day, brings the family for a weekend outing, or plans an evening around a live set, the experience feels rooted in place. It is the kind of spot that turns first-time diners into repeat regulars who bring along new friends each visit.