Northbrook Golf Course evolution features new chef

LUXEMBURG – For over five decades, Northbrook Golf Course in Luxemburg has been a staple in the community, providing a scenic and welcoming atmosphere for both golfers and diners alike.

Six years ago, a new ownership group took over the golf course and revitalized the restaurant with a remodel and new menu.

Now, with the hiring of experienced chef Nick Bongle and a new menu set to launch next month, they are taking the next step in their evolution.

Bongle, a Luxemburg-Casco native, brings culinary experience beyond Wisconsin, having worked in various high-end restaurants in Minnesota and Iowa.

His return home is fueled by a passion for creating high-quality, approachable dishes that blend comfort with sophistication.

According to manager Steve LaPlante, “It was time.”

LaPlante praised Bongle, stating, “He brings a fresh energy and experience beyond Wisconsin.”

Running both a successful golf course and restaurant is no easy feat, especially when staffing remains a challenge.

Northbrook’s location between Green Bay and Door County makes it challenging to find consistent staff, which is why LaPlante feels fortunate to have brought on Bongle, whose leadership is already making a difference.

Bongle is set to introduce a new menu, along with biweekly specials featuring three to four unique dishes.

His emphasis is on fresh, local ingredients, including hand-cut steaks sourced from nearby farms, fresh salmon, and homemade soups.

“The goal is to stay relevant, high-quality, comfortable, and approachable while always evolving to keep people interested,” said LaPlante.

For Bongle, taking on the challenge of revitalizing Northbrook’s restaurant was both a professional and personal decision.

“I was at my last job for 12 years, worked my way up, and wasn’t going any higher,” Bongle said. “I’m originally from here, so it was good to get back with family and take on a new challenge.”

His experience in Minnesota and Iowa influences his approach to the kitchen at Northbrook, from refining ordering processes to implementing more scratch-made dishes.

Bongle’s long-term vision is simple: maintain high-quality and consistency.
He believes that consistency is key to success, and ensuring every dish is crafted with the same attention to detail is crucial.

“We want to give the people of Luxemburg a super cool place to come out and enjoy their night,” Bongle said.

With a strong culinary background that includes graduating from Le Cordon Bleu in the Twin Cities and working at renowned steakhouses and barbecue restaurants, Bongle is more than prepared to take on this new role.

He and his wife, who is also a trained chef, are excited to be part of Northbrook’s evolution.

As the restaurant prepares for its next chapter, diners can expect fresh flavors, innovative specials and a renewed commitment to excellence — all thanks to Chef Nick Bongle’s expertise and passion for his hometown’s dining scene.