GET REAL! Vino Cappuccino owners Dina and Galen Babb (pictured) are passing the torch onto a new owner after the 2024 season.

Vino Cappuccino Artisan Bistro made its debut in Elk Mound in 2017. It quickly became an area favorite and has grown and expanded in those seven years, exceeding all dreams and expectations. Vino Cappuccino strives to be an authentic Wisconsin experience – after all, its slogan is “Real Food, Real Farmers, Real Good. GET REAL!” In keeping with that authenticity and transparency, owners Dina and Galen Babb are excited to announce they are ready to pass the torch on to someone who shares that vision.

In 2005 Dina and Galen Babb, along with their children, moved to Elk Mound, Wisconsin. Galen had recently retired from the Marine Corps after 21 years of service and the family was ready to put down roots after moving every few years during that time. They settled into the historic Meyer family farmhouse, built in 1902, and started to plant their roots in the community. After their children flew the nest, Dina and Galen decided to pursue their dream of converting the farmhouse into a community gathering place, opening it up for the public as they already had for friends and family. Since its beginning, Vino’s mission has been to create a connection point where people feel valued and loved.

"We have no regrets. It has been fun, exciting, and rewarding to meet new people, connect with the community, and connect the community to each other."
–Dina & Galen Babbs

Dina and Galen believe that food, wine, music, art, coffee, and desserts all combine together to help people connect. “We want our guests to feel like they are at a friend’s house enjoying a great get together,” the owners said. This was the foundation of their values: connecting people, supporting local vendors, and impacting the community. The bistro offers an array of dishes from local suppliers. Inside the farmhouse guests can enjoy locally sourced coffee and wine while relaxing in the library or seasonal front porch. The rotating selection of desserts are an eclectic mix of traditional favorites and unique creations. Vino Cappuccino also has a carefully curated selection of wines from local wineries for guests to sample and enjoy. Surrounded by art, music, and history, guests will experience a laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff.

Each year, Vino Cappuccino has grown and improved, and Dina and Galen hope that it will continue to do so under new ownership. The couple is ready to close this chapter and semi-retire to focus more on family, travel, and continued community involvement. They look forward to simplifying life and downsizing, with the hope that Vino Cappuccino continues, with new ownership.

“We have no regrets. It has been fun, exciting, and rewarding to meet new people, connect with the community, and connect the community to eachother. That being said, this is the year to use any gift cards you may have since we don’t know what the future holds,” the owners said.

The farmhouse itself has been lovingly updated, including adding three bed-and-breakfast style suites on the upper floors. The farmhouse and bistro, which include a commercial kitchen, bakery, coffee shop, and indoor and outdoor seating, have been a seasonal business thus far, with the potential for a future owner to expand the operations to grow into bigger and better things. The Vino Cappuccino team is looking forward to having their best year ever, and they hope to see you during their final season!

Visit Vino Cappuccino Artisan Bistro (N5734 Hwy 12, Elk Mound) from May-September, open Wednesday-Saturday from 11am-8pm • Keep up with them on Facebook
(@vinocappuccinobistro) and learn more at vinocappuccinobistro.com