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Bernie's Fine Meats - Port Washington, Wisconsin

Bernie’s of Port Washington, Wisconsin is surely a destination for meat lovers offering an awesome variety of fresh and smoked meat products including “Old World” favorites.  Bernie’s carries a variety of bacon flavors, all applewood smoked.  We tried their apple flavored bacon (prepared in apple juice) first and were quite pleased.  The apple flavor was just right; a bit of sweetness but not overpowering of the fine smoked flavor.  The slices were cut thick and had a nice meaty texture, very similar to good quality side pork.  The fat-to-meat ratio was excellent – even the lightest colored parts had a meaty body and there were very few areas of pure fat.  Shrinkage was minimal and there was little liquid fat released in cooking. Bernie's Apple Flavored Smoked Bacon CookingAmong the other flavors offered are: applewood smoked, black pepper, Hungarian, Serbian, and maple and brown sugar.  If you like meaty bacon, all will be a hit.  Those who like it spiced up a notch will appreciate a bit of good flavored heat with the Hungarian bacon (and be sure to try their Hungarian brats if you want some not-so-tame spice for the grill). Bernies Meats FinishedBernie’s shop is modest in size, but we’re not sure how one could pack more goodies – meats, cheese, packaged sundries, domestic and imported beers, wines and top shelf liquors.  Those heading north out of Milwaukee on I-43 to Door County or other parts north would do well to make a short diversion on Wisconsin Highway 32 to stop at Bernie’s and stock up on items for the grill, frying pan, pantry, picnic basket, and cooler.  With a few basics you may have set out with already, you could nicely round out the menu for a full weekend or more with one stop at Bernie’s!  Better yet, spend a little time strolling main street and the harbor area’s shops and restaurants and you may get the idea to make Port Washington itself a destination sometime soon.