The Watershed Cafe

Big flavor in small town. In a small town like Osceola you're not gonna find a better restaurant with all home made entrees. This is counter-order-bring-to-your-table concept. Friday night walleye dinner was flavorful, crispy, and light w homemade slaw and tarter sauce with proportionate dill. Pozole soup was hearty but could use more hominy, but again, where else can you find pozole in Osceloa?! Risotto was creamy with tender veggies. Top it off, had rhubarb cherry pie ala mode, yummo! Got coffee cake and apple pastry for tomorrow's breakfast! This is a gem right at Cascade Falls and in a town where it's bar and grill everywhere else, this is homemade yumminess. Prices should be transparent on the chalkboard menu, instead of having to ask how much something is as it can vary greatly, up to $35 for dinner special.

Went for a lovely fall hike up the river bluffs across the street, then came back down to a tasty anniversary dinner here. Casual, rustic atmosphere. Very scenic eating out on the deck next to Osceola Creek. Food was great quality and deliciously prepared. First time coming here and will definitely be back.

Super prime spot for a restaurant. They are currently expanding in back. Should be nice. My wife and 5month old enjoyed our first visit. We'll definitely be back. We definitely recommend eating on the back patio. Great view and the sounds of running water is great. Everything was perfect for us even with construction it was pleasent.

I’m super sad to write this review as my family and I have always loved this local family run gem. However, recent visits have left us extremely disappointed with the food and value. Something big has changed in the back of the house because the entrees we’ve received are not the same as 9-12 months ago. Customer service is always top notch which is greatly appreciated and not a factor in this review. First off, my family member’s burger at our last visit was tiny without much flavor and it felt like a rip off for the portion size and price. Secondly, my risotto bowl was inedible as it had absolutely no flavor and the veggies in it were literally only super tough mushroom stems and frozen peas. It was more like a rice porridge than risotto and the only saving grace was the hemp pesto, but even that couldn’t save it. I’ve had the risotto bowl many times before and it was flavorful and delicious. This visit was the last straw and it pains me to say we will not be back for a while. I understand having an off night, but our recent experiences have been similar the last few times. It’s feeling more like cost saving measures and lack of tasting the food prior to serving has hindered the menu. Hoping this review helps bring some awareness for continued improvement as I want this business to succeed.

Watershed Cafe was walking distance from a little B&B that we stayed at in Osceola. They take your order at the counter right when you walk in. We ate here twice [so far] and really loved everything about it. We ordered posole soup, minestrone soup, and a veggie hummus sandwich. All very well prepared and delicious. We also got to try their old fashioned which was delicious and had about a half orange of pulp in it.

Loved this place! A must visit! We went here while we were visiting the area and were pleasantly surprised by how good it was. The chips and fries were really good. The staff are very friendly, the food is delicious, and the restaurant itself is super cute! We sat outside and enjoyed the waterfall.

It was a wonderful experience from beginning to end. Gabriel was a really neat guy. Cordial, professional, kind, very knowledgeable, excellent customer service. The Spring Salad was probably the most delicious salad I ever tasted. I just love this town and this restaurant is the cherry on top! I can't wait to go back!

We visited on Thanksgiving weekend simply because they had a Caesar Salad. It was located in a great spot, next to the trail to the waterfall and not far from the steps down to the waterfall. Parking was free and is available on the street or in a parking lot across the street, by another park. The Caesar salad recipient reported that it was great, but the croutons were hard. They would have it again. I had their ginger peach lemonade, made inhouse, and it was fantastic! The flavors were just right, none of them dominated the others and they didn't taste fake. The amount of carbonation in it was light, just enough to add a sparkle but not detract.

Wonderful food and drinks. The patio was delightful with the sound of the waterfall and all the trees.

Quality food and cozy atmosphere. Service was quick because you order at counter before being seated. If you have to wait a bit then nature is right out the door.

Soup n Salad is NOT a good choice I asked for a salad NOT lettuce and cucumber... The lettuce was soggy and bitter

Impressive menu for a small town "Cafe". I was a little confused; it's an informal spot with expensive food items. It's order at the counter service, but you're able to order a 10oz steak. Also, not just any steak, a $30 steak. Annoyingly, they don't have the prices on the menu blackboard behind the counter so you have to ask the host the cost for every item (which is awkward). The food was better than expected. The dressing for the Caesar salad was very light, I was hard to taste and required a lot of manipulation to spread it evenly on every leaf. The maple glaze duck was pretty good! However, In some spots it was a little dry.

Good food, juicy burgers, large portions. They did keep the water carafe coming as well. You order at the counter and then they bring you food. It's a cute place and wasn't too loud when we were there.

What a gem! Was in town for a wedding and wanted to eat somewhere with a pretty outdoor space. We hit the jackpot here. On a quaint street overlooking lush greenery and a waterfall- wow. Cute place for sure! The steak salad was a hit, nachos not so much. Service was decent- attentive but the food took a while to come out. Free street parking.

We had lunch at this restaurant, the restaurant is next to cascade falls, nice view, you can sit inside or outdoor. We ordered delicious tomato basil soup, fresh house salad, tasty sandwich.

Excellent place! There has been a line every time we have been to this restaurant, however it moves quickly and does not take long to get your order. Location is wonderful, you can sit outside and enjoy the beautiful scenery and sounds of the waterfall. Highly recommend.

Delightful! Staff was pleasant and attentive, food was piping hot and so incredibly tasty. The patio was lovely.

I stopped in for a quick lunch and was happy I chose the right place. The staff was friendly and attentive and the food was fantastic. I had the quiche which exploded with flavor. I appreciated how good the fruit side was, as this is something that is often pretty skimpy at other places.

Great food. Weird service, actually sort of equivocal service, you order at the cash register. Prices are not posted which can result in awkward moments. Unmatched patio in the summer. Somewhat quirky hours. By far the best food in town.

Great place. The portions are generous and top notch. The chips are an excellent side.

We are in town for a family reunion this weekend and several people recommended we visit The Watershed while we are here. We had a fantastic time canoeing this morning and decided to stop in for a quick coffee on our way back to the Inn. There were six of us, so we were a big group entering, but before we could even form a line the barista told us to step to the left of the register away from the door. We all looked behind us wondering if we were blocking someone trying to get in. No, it was just our party and two other people waiting to order. Despite the menu being to the right of the register, we were now all crowded to the left. We've never been here before, so rather strange to not be able to see the menu. Then the cashier seemed less than pleased that we weren't ordering quickly enough. After we ordered we all naturally started stepping to the right of the cashier to wait for our drinks. The barista again scolded us and asked us to step back to the left away from the door! Our party was literally crowded in the small space where the bathrooms are afraid of "getting in trouble again." This was not the welcoming and friendly experience we were expecting. The two staff members made us feel like they were tolerating us. As we walked to the car my kids said they didn't want to go back there. We were planning to place a To Go lunch order tomorrow for 18 people but based on this experience we will order someplace else.

Extremely long pieces of hair found in the food... please wear hairnets and become more sanitary.

Neat place. Very good food. Very nice people Great place to go to. Always have a good time here.

The food is very fresh and delicious. Good variety of beverages. The outside deck is very beautiful and relaxing.

The food here was fabulous! The salmon on my Risotto bowl was a thick cut cooked and seasoned perfectly. The risotto with Parmesan and pesto was full of flavor. The charcuterie Wisconsin cheeses were so tasty with their house jam. The art on the walls was amazing I wanted to purchase but was told was from art students from their high school. It's right next to a serene flowing stream with seating outside overlooking the lush garden or inside. Service was friendly. Perfect place to stop on the border of Minnesota and Wisconsin called Osceola.

Excellent little restaurant! Great fresh food, great service and beautiful waterfall in the back where there's a river.

Cobb salad was beautifully plated, but nothing ruins a good salad more than greens that have brown edges and slimed spots hiding beneath the toppings. Had to pick out a third of the greens to consider even eating it. Spoiled salad greens stretched too far and overpriced. Having to order at front door counter and pay bill, including tip, before being served, leaves staff unmotivated to watch quality of food and service. Service response was flat. No effort to adjust pricing or replace greens with fresh ones made by wait staff. So disappointed. Use to like going here. Wouldn't recommend after today.

Social distancing: check Outdoor seating: check (no heating) Masks: check Food and service still wonderful. Love visiting this cute little cafe. I really like their drink selection. Their desserts are awesome too. I had this berry pastry. Loooved it. I got their last slice.

Surprisingly delicious with a lot of options for Osceola, MN! Not to mention the cute interior, spacious patio, and great location next to the river. I had a wild rice burger and a fall themed cocktail - both were excellent. Their hand cut chips are also so good. My friend got the Reuben and loved it! Will be back, especially in warmer weather to enjoy the patio.

My friend's daughter suggested that we get our food to go so we could go down the 160+ steps to the beautiful scenery. I ordered the special of the day, grilled wild salmon with a farro salad and broccolini. The food was excellent! Pair it with the scenery and this place is a WINNER if you are looking to impress!

Stopped here on our way back to Minnesota and it did not disappoint! Some locals recommended it to us. We both tried the grilled cheese with fries and I believe it was a cinnamon toast crunch latte? Or something cinnamon. Everything was DELICIOUS! Cute place, nice atmosphere, super friendly staff.. you order at the front then someone will show you to a table where they bring you your food/drinks. The owner even came up to our table and introduced himself pointing out my ripped jeans and knee tattoos, saying how he now understands the ripped jeans trend haha. It was pretty funny and cool.

I've been visiting Minnesota and Wisconsin since 2002 I love visiting here from the south. After visiting Taylor's Falls and a local sculpture garden we headed for hearty lunch. When I saw that the wild rice burger was available I immediately ordered it , so glad I did it tasted amazing ! Drank some Spotted Cow beers as well. Free parking. Nice town.

Service was helpful, food was fast and delicious and the environment was warm and friendly. Heavily recommend!

Hmm how to start. This place was spectacular in every aspect. Super adorbs and quaint interior! Cute vibes. Friendly and lit employees (shoutout to the employee who i don't know his name but was awesome and i think maybe had glasses and longer hair) that checked up on us and held a lovely conversation. And THEN.... the food came and it was divine. Finger licking good. Scrumptious hummus. I would come here everyday if I lived there. I will be back to try the smoothie it was calling my name but not as much as the scrumpdiliotious chicken pesto sandwhich. BUSSIN!!!! Hike behind it is confusing as hell. ruined my uggs but don't blame them at all i have zero complaints. i love u guys

I could not believe how good the food was! I was so surprised to find such a great place for lunch in a small town. The watershed has a good size menu for breakfast lunch and everything in between. They had a nice selection of vegetarian options along with beer, wine and mixed drinks. Our table shared a plate of nachos which were the best Nachos I've ever had. I had a veggie sandwich which was served with a huge pile of crispy homemade chips. Everything was amazing, food was fresh, and I left wanting to come back and try more of their food.

Great food and service, but my goodness how hard is it to serve coffee that's actually hot? Also a variety of sweeteners would be welcome instead of that awful sugar in the raw stuff. Lastly, the "cream" should be actual cream, not skim milk. But overall a good spot.

First time there and was well pleased. The ambience was perfect for this charming small town on the St. Croix River. The bread on the sandwiches was outstanding. Toasted perfectly and had a very nice flavor. The get their bread from the Good Bread Co., in Minneapolis. That Company is well known for their quality bread. The tuna sandwich was very generous in size and made perfectly. The service was excellent. I highly advise trying this cafe and spending some time is this charming town.

We were on a work trip in MN and decided to take a quick drive over the Wisconsin for dinner. You order at the counter and then you are seated, which is actually super convenient! The food was delicious. The meat was a tad bit over cooked, but definitely still edible! I really enjoyed the Reuben and cheese board.

Off day for The WC. Overpriced salad that promised Chevre cheese and a zesty orange vinaigrette delivered nothing more than a heavy on the onions with a side of oil; looked more like a sad side salad than a (full priced entree) salad. Ouch! For that price next time I'll make my own :(

Get their early. Gets somewhat busy with a line. All food good. Duck was glazed. Walleye on Fridays.

A hidden gem with great service, outstanding food and very reasonable pricing. Take a walk down to the falls after brunch. A short hike and worth the effort!

Such a fun selection of unique fall drinks! I got a cinnamon chai and I was with someone who got an apple cider chai. Both so fun and tasty

VERY GOOD!!!!! Great menu and portions. Food quality was excellent. Prices fair and nice location. After you eat walk down to see the waterfall and then a short walk to the river.

Upscale food in a comfy cafe. The food was very impressive for a small town. The glazed duck was amazing. The fish of the day paled slightly in comparison but on its own was quite good. Good portion sizes.

This place is outstanding. Use fresh, local, in season ingredients. Staff is delightful. My favorites are the quiche and their soups. Although the burgers are great too!!

Living in the Minneapolis, sometimes you just wanna get away from the city and enjoy the outdoors... but at what expense? Sure, time is something you have to take into consideration. Cost of fuel consumption is another factor worth considering. But the real concern that keeps many a "city folk" at bay is the dreaded fear of being stuck in the middle of nowhere with a sub-par food selection... Thankfully there's Watershed: family owned with homemade style and good cooking since 2014. All locally farmed and sourced ingredients. The staple menu is phenomenal and the daily specials are well worth the drive just to see what's cooking that day. Leave room for the pie, it's on another level...

Oddly I arrived at my cousins wedding just outside of Osceola WI...2 hours early (not a common happening for this girl to arrive early). So with time to kill and a slight hunger pang from not eating today yet, I hopped on yelp to see if there was anything with high reviews that served my kind of food close by (dang I love you Yelpers- you never seize to fail!). Lucky me- this little gem of as only a 9 minute drive from the wedding site! (And Uhm, now I've added Osceola, WI to my bucket list to spend a getaway weekend to boot! Cute town!) I walked in and the line was Uber long. Feeling slightly concerned that I may not get in and out in time, I asked the gal how long she had been waiting- not long. And the line went super quick. The eats and drinks are located behind the counter with great descriptions of what all was worked into their dishes (I SO wish more places did this- it helps narrow down a decision for this hard to decide gal!). I opted for the steak salad and a iced Breve (I needed cool, light food that wouldn't bloat me during the hot outdoor wedding I was about to attend but OMG I was so tempted to order a buffet of yummy things!) Opps- I also ordered their (beat dang looking EVER) carrot cake in a to go container. Everything about this little jaunt was 5 Star. The wait to get my food was fast enough, I got to pick how I wanted those scrumptious steak pieces cooked, the perfect balance of both the salad and coffee, the staff seriously deserves way more stars to boot! Being that my phone rang was not acting so stellar and I NEEDED to cram in some last day of the month work, I asked for the WiFi password. Being that I'm hearing impaired, they actually showed me the password. I wasn't getting it to join. So the really awesome young wait staff came over to my table to help me with it. Not once, not twice but 3 times. He was also stellar with double checking with me to see if all was well. I RARELY get this kind of service from a waiter- especially not a young one. Extra kudos to that kid and the momma that raised him!! I could easily eat in this place every chance I could get if I'm in the area again. And yes, I ate the carrot cake. It topped my 20 plus year on going favorite carrot cake from a local place here in MN that none other has yet to beat. I'm smitten!

Wow!! Great ambiance outside with the river and falls. Food was no slouch either. Prices are a bit steep but worth it. The patty melt was delicious!! Fries a bit soggy...

Came for dinner after visiting the Cascade Falls. What a treasure tucked away in Wisconsin! The restaurant is proud of keeping their food local. Everything was so fresh and prepared so well. The country style chicken was made with a delicious unique batter. It was not dry at all and paired well with the sweet potato hash and vegetables. The watershed plate is a make it your way dinner. I did the steak, grains, and a Caesar salad. The portions were quite generous and I was stuffed at the end. It went well with a glass of red wine. They have a patio that overlooks the river and falls - it was so beautiful and fun to sit out there and enjoy the view. The inside is cozy. Staff were pretty helpful, even though no one is your server. Found street parking with no problem. I would highly recommend checking this place out if you're in the area!

I've eaten here twice, a good experience both times. I've ordered a burger (delicious!) and a Reuben sandwich (nicely balanced between tangy sauerkraut, creamy dressing, and rich corned beef) and had a taste of the salmon (nice portion, neither over- nor undercooked.) Salads are fresh and green. If you've read many of my reviews, you know that my pet peeve is wilted, brown, or slimy lettuce. Not a problem here! At the end of today's dinner, our party split two desserts, lemon pound cake and carrot cake. It was late in the day and the lemon cake was a touch dry, although richly flavored and tart, the way I like it. The carrot cake was generously frosted, moist but not heavy, tasty and studded with raisins, nuts and other delicious goodies I couldn't identify. No complaints about the food! However, it's an order-at-the-counter arrangement, which doesn't seem to fit with the overall feeling of the restaurant. If you want to get something additional, you have to run back up to the counter to get it and pay for it. If you want a cup of coffee, they give you a mug and direct you to the air pots in the dining room. Perhaps because it was nearly closing time, the coffee tasted a little burned to me. My other gripe is that they have no coat hooks, a problem when four people are crammed into a booth during a Midwestern winter.

Because of the Covid we ordered take out. Having never been there it was hard to order. The locally sourced hamburger sounded good and when I came I wasn't disappointed , the fresh potato curls were a wonderful surprise. The disappoint came with the chicken pot pie my husband ordered it was like soup with a biscuit on top. He need a spoon not a fork. He wished he had gotten the hamburger I was a nice wife and gave home hafe of mine.

Parking is not the greatest but it's quaint and the food is good! Prices are on the higher side.

Don't miss this gem. Best patio ever!!!! Food is delightful! Easy is find something foe everyone. I recommend the wild rice burger. Best glass of red wine- won't tell you the kind- just ask for the one the locals drink! Cheers

I'm a fairly picky foodie and nothing I hate worse is a restaurant that does not separate themselves from the 100's of bad restaurants. This place is very well done and a very pleasant surprise. Clean freshly prepared food and wonderful ambiance. Staff, friendly in a northern earthy way. Food was great, definitely coming back for dinner in the near future. LOVE THIS PLACE!

Lovely place. We loved the cozy atmosphere, the menu selection and the quality of food. The steak sandwich was flavorful and nice portions. The homemade chips are great and other sandwiches tasty. The Ruben was a little underwhelming with less ingredients than ideal. Overall if we are in the area again will stop by this place for sure! We should have had a dessert that looked amazing- next time!

Food is wonderful and the views out the back are amazing. I've never had food I didn't love from here

Pretty hard to imagine a better restaurant. The food is from local farms, the preparation is really delicious and the restaurant itself is comfortable and charming with beautiful views of waterfalls and a creek. Fantastic! Warning: brunch portion sizes are very large.