Top 41 Restaurants in Milwaukee

Milwaukee is a principal municipality in Wisconsin on the western shore of Lake Michigan. It’s an exciting city for visitors and residents alike with various breweries and classic motorcycles.

Indeed, about 600,000 people call Milwaukee home, so access to diverse and delicious restaurants is essential!

Milwaukee has experienced a boom in the restaurant industry for the last few years, from new cafes to bars to eateries.

While best known for Wisconsin cheese curds and craft brews, Milwaukee has much more to offer the curious foodie.

From a food truck park with various international cuisines to a food stall market with coffee and ice cream, the culinary scene in the city is expanding every day.

Whether you enjoy a traditional steakhouse or would like to sample authentic Ethiopian dishes, Milwaukee, has a restaurant perfect for your visit. Be sure to check out our comprehensive list of the forty-one best restaurants in Milwaukee.

Sanford

1547 N Jackson St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: 414-276-9608
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Located in the Lower East Side, Sanford serves New American fare with a robust wine list. I recommend making Dinner reservations since the location is popular for date night or an intimate meal with friends.

Sandy D’Amato first opened the space in the 1980s but recently sold the eatery to Chef De Cuisine Justin Aprahamian, who has continued the quality dining tradition.

The four-course tasting menu is about eighty-five dollars and is a delicious dining option.

I enjoyed the Seared Scottish Salmon with Radish and Marinated Cucumber, the Cucumber and Tomato Gazpacho with Basil Cream, the Fennel Dusted Beef Tenderloin with Yukon Potato Purée, and the Banana Butterscotch Toffee Tart with Banana Rum Ice Cream.

Story Hill BKC

5100 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53208
Phone: 414-539-4424
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Story Hill BKC is a casual eatery serving seasonal dishes with weekend brunch and a full bar.

You can stop by the restaurant, right in front of Mitchell Boulevard Park, during the day or for an extended happy hour. The space’s interior is trendy reclaimed wood, and the seating is cozy and inviting.

I enjoyed the Crêpe Monsieur with hickory-smoked ham, alpine cheese, housemade pickles, dijonnaise, and chives for lunch.

For dinner, I would recommend Beef Short Rib Gnocchi with tomato braised beef short rib, housemade potato gnocchi, and balsamic braised red cabbage.

La Merenda

125 E National Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Phone: 414-389-0125
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Le Merenda is a colorful restaurant in the Harbor View neighborhood with an outdoor space and international menu.

Le Merenda is an Italian term meaning “early snack,” and the menu is full of tasty treats. Notably, the restaurant has vegetarian options.

I started my meal with the Pistachio Salad with arugula, pistachios, gorgonzola, and pistachio vinaigrette.

I also enjoyed the Risotto con Funghi, a River Valley Ranch mushroom risotto with an arugula gremolata.

Try the Tamarind Honey Collins cocktail with Vodka, Tamarind Honey Syrup, Lemon Juice, Jamaican # 2 Bitters, and Seltzer.

Odd Duck

2352 S Kinnickinnic Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207
Phone: 414-763-5881
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Odd Duck is a peculiar and ever-changing eatery near the Baran Park community, focusing on New American fare and creative cocktails. Odd Duck was opened in 2012 by Ross Bachhuber and Melissa Buchholz to express their culinary creativity.

When I visited Odd Duck, I enjoyed the Albacore Tuna Crudo with Leche de Tigre, Sweet Potato, Heirloom Corn, Pickled Red Onion, and Cilantro–it is also gluten-free!

Another excellent gluten-free and vegan option is the Black Pepper Tempura Oyster Mushrooms, Tofu, Scallion, Shiso Leaf, Brined Green Peppercorn, and Fresh Herbs.

Amilinda

315 E Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: 414-369-3683
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Amilinda serves Spanish and Portuguese cuisine in a comfortable and modern setting. The restaurant is near the Historic Third Ward and is open for dinner from Thursday to Saturday.

Gregory León is the executive chef and owner. He has lived in Venezuela and California and has created beautiful fusion dishes from his lived experience.

I enjoyed the cream of potato soup as an appetizer. I enjoyed the Skirt Steak with Berbere Spiced Fries and Arugula for my entree.

I would also recommend the Pork Alentejana, a Braised Pork Shoulder with Manila Clams and Roasted Carrots. Guests should make a reservation online.

Ardent

1751 N Farwell Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: 414-897-7022
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Ardent is an upscale restaurant located in Milwaukee’s Lower East Side. The kitchen presents innovative New American meals, including a chef’s tasting menu.

The eatery is open from Wednesday to Saturday, and it is perfect for an intimate date night.

The menu is fresh and seasonal, so it changes slightly depending on the time of year. I enjoyed the Cornish Game Hen served with heirloom tomato, lemon, and thyme when I visited.

The restaurant is offering private dining spaces for parties of eight or more.

Lakefront Brewery

1872 N Commerce St, Milwaukee, WI 53212
Phone: 414-372-8800
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Lakefront Brewery is in Brewer’s Hill along the Milwaukee River. It offers tasty bar food and a vast selection of beers, including gluten-free options.

The brewery is open daily, with extended hours on the weekend. The interior has an exposed brick that creates a comfortable vibe.

The brewery has year-round beer and seasonal brews. I enjoyed the Hazy Rabbit IPA, the Marzen Oktoberfest, and the Breakfast Oatmeal Stout.

Try the fried cheese curds served with garlic ranch! I also enjoyed the Beer-Braised Pot Roast, roast beef, and gravy over parsnip puree with macaroni and cheese.

The Sausage Flight and the Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich are excellent choices as well!

Blue’s Egg

317 N 76th St, Milwaukee, WI 53213
Phone: 414-299-3180
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If you’re in the Wellauer Park neighborhood, stop by Blue’s Egg to enjoy American breakfast favorites, lunch options, or to-go pastries. Make sure you come early since the restaurant closes at 2:00 pm.

You can enjoy some great brunch in the indoor or outdoor seating, taking in the fun, art deco vibe.

My favorite breakfast dishes are buttermilk pancakes and Goat Cheese Hash Browns with paprika aioli.

One of the restaurant’s signature dishes is Blue’s Classic Benedict with poached eggs, pulled ham, housemade English muffin, and hollandaise.

Try the Triple Berry Spinach salad for lunch; it has berries, arugula, baby spinach, avocado, cucumber, fried shallots, goat cheese, and caramel candied pecans.

Kopp’s Frozen Custard

5373 N Port Washington Rd, Glendale, WI 53217
Phone: 414-961-3288
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Kopp’s Frozen Custard is a Milwaukee institution located just off Interstate 43. You’ll know it when you see it, thanks to the line of cow sculptures outside.

As you can guess by the cows and the name, the menu includes various frozen custards and jumbo burgers. The restaurant is open daily, beginning at 10:30 am.

The double cheeseburger is a delicious classic. I would also recommend the grilled chicken sandwich and the onion rings.

When it comes to custard, my favorite flavors were butterscotch and blueberry. Also, try the peanut butter, pineapple, or banana custard flavors. You can add pecans or cashews to the top of your scoop.

Harbor House

550 N Harbor Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: 414-395-4900
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Harbor House is an upscale restaurant headed by Executive Chef John Korycki. Thanks to its ideal location along the shore of Lake Michigan, diners enjoy beautiful skyline views. The kitchen serves steak and seafood dishes, and the bar offers a lengthy wine list.

Try the Maryland Style Crab Cake with Remoulade. I’d also recommend the Bay of Funday Salmon for an entree.

Another fantastic option is the Black Angus Ribeye with a Brandy Peppercorn sauce. On a summer day, you cannot beat the Maine-Style Lobster Roll with chilled lobster and Old Bay mayonnaise on a Toasted Brioche Bun.

Birch

459 E Pleasant St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: 414-323-7372
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Birch is a modern cafe with an attached butcher shop. It serves traditional Midwestern cuisine with many options cooked on an open-fire hearth.

If you are on the Lower East Side between Wednesday and Sunday, stop in to try Birch’s great menu. Or, you can sample their weekend brunch, which begins at 10:00 am.

I enjoyed the Slow Roasted Duroc Pork Ragu with Pappardelle pasta, roasted kale, and pickled banana peppers on the dinner menu.

Try the Grilled Beef Flat Iron with braised carrots and roasted cauliflower from the wood-fired grill.

Try the Grilled Focaccia and Whipped Ricotta or the Creamy Wisconsin Polenta with Braised Duroc Pork and Poached Farm Eggs for brunch.

Momo Mee Asian Cuisine

110 E Greenfield Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Phone: 414-316-9003
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Momo Mee Asian Cuisine is a fantastic restaurant serving dumplings and noodles in the Harbor View community by the Kinnickinnic River.

The friendly service and comfortable patio seating enhance the relaxed vibe. You can stop by for lunch or dinner every day.

I enjoyed the Cantonese Stir-Fried Egg Noodles with chicken, egg, scallions, yellow onion, and bean sprouts.

Other popular menu items include the Szechuan Spicy Wontons and Steamed Pot Stickers. The various Cantonese Clay Pots are the restaurant’s signature dishes. The menu has sake, red, and wine wines.

Zarletti

741 N Milwaukee St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: 414-225-0000
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Zarletti is in the East Town community by the Milwaukee City Hall. The interior is filled with warm wood and window panes that separate tables and create an intimate yet comfortable setting. The restaurant serves Italian dishes and wine from a well-cultivated list.

I would recommend the Panzanella or Caprese salad for a starter. Try the Pasta alla Bolognese with rigatoni and the Pasta Carbonara.

Also, the menu creates gluten-free pasta! For dessert, try the tiramisu and the cannoli. The glass of Chanti, a red wine, is perfect with many of the pasta dishes.

Three Brothers

2414 S St Clair St, Milwaukee, WI 53207
Phone: 414-481-7530
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Three Brothers has been serving the Bay View Community since 1956. It’s a casual restaurant across from Beulah Brinton Part.

Milunka Radicevic, the founders’ granddaughter, presently operates the restaurant and offers Serbian cuisine with a full wine menu. Note that the restaurant is cash or check only.

You must order the stuffed grape leaves for an appetizer! I also loved the Serbian salad and the Stuffed Peppers with beef and rice.

The apple or cherry strudel is delicious for dessert. Follow Three Brothers on social media for up-to-date menu additions or shifts in opening hours.

The Diplomat

815 E Brady St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: 414-800-5816
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The Diplomat is a sociable eatery on the lower East Side that offers American classics with a contemporary twist and creative cocktails.

Chef Dane Baldwin operates The Diplomat opening the restaurant from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm between Wednesday and Saturday.

When I visited The Diplomat, I enjoyed the Chicken Leg Confit with corn grits and the Smoked Eggplant Hushpuppies with lemon aioli.

The Mushroom Risotto is a delicious vegetarian dish; it is even better with a side of sourdough bread. Be sure to order the Peanut Butter Pie for dessert!

La Dama Mexican Kitchen & Bar

839 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Phone: 414-645-2606
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La Dama Mexican Kitchen & Bar is a woman-owned restaurant in the Harbor View neighborhood, serving delicious food.

The establishment’s logo is a woman with a distinctive Dia de Los Muertos face painting, showing you’ll get a taste of authentic Mexican food at this restaurant.

I enjoyed the Pancita tacos with pork belly, black garlic puree, arbol and peanut salsa, apple watercress, and pickled onion.

I would also recommend the Chilitios Rellenos, a battered stuffed jalapeno with duck confit, wild mushrooms, chipotle tomato fondue sauce, and crema.

Try the Wild Hibiscus cocktail with tequila, Cointreau, hibiscus syrup, lime, and orange juice.

Mader’s Restaurant

1041 N Old World 3rd St, Milwaukee, WI 53203
Phone: 414-271-3377
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Mader’s Restaurant is a traditional establishment that has been operational since 1902. It offers classic German cuisine alongside Bavarian decor, and the waitstaff even wears traditional German attire to set the vibe!

Its unique exterior looks like you are walking down a street in Hamburg, even though it’s along the Milwaukee River’s shores near Pere Marquette Park.

For a starter, try the Reuben Rolls and the Potato Pancakes. The Pork Shank is Mader’s Most Famous Dish, a skinless shank with apple demi-glaze, red potatoes, and sauerkraut.

The Schnitzel is also incredible; it is a breaded pork cutlet served with sauerkraut, spätzle, and lemon. Don’t forget to try the German potato salad and the Goulash!

Mason Street Grill

424 E Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: 1414-298-3131
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Mason Street Grill is in the East Town neighborhood. It is a classic restaurant and lounge situated in the historic Pfister Hotel.

The eatery is known for traditional steakhouse fare and live jazz music. The interior is full of dark brown leather armchairs and booths, a beautiful outdoor patio, and an extensive wine room.

Begin your meal with the Lamb Meatballs with Mint Pesto and Tzatziki Sauce. I also enjoyed the Shrimp & Grits with Goat Cheese, Stone Ground Grits, and Andouille.

Be sure to review the steak menu. I would recommend the New York strip with Béarnaise sauce. Add White Cheddar and Smoked Gouda Macaroni & Cheese as a family-style side dish.

Ristorante Bartolotta dal 1993

7616 W State St, Wauwatosa, WI 53213
Phone: 414-771-7910
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Ristorante Bartolotta dal 1993 is a winsome tavern serving a seasonal menu of innovative Italian cuisine.

The restaurant is near Harwood Avenue and W. State Street, right near the Menomonee River. It offers a cozy Italian dining experience with a special outdoor courtyard called La Terraza.

Executive Chef Juan Urbieta serves delicious dishes like Coniglio All’arneis, a rabbit leg braised in Roero-Arneis wine and a Novara-style risotto with salami, pancetta, borlotti beans, savoy cabbage, and grana.

Explore the wine list and sample the panna cotta, which was my favorite.

Braise Restaurant & Culinary School

1101 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Phone: 414-212-8843
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Braise Restaurant & Culinary School serves local and seasonal New American fare alongside regional beers and global wines.

The restaurant, located in the Harbor View neighborhood, is only open on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

Make sure to plan ahead! In addition to dinner service, the restaurant offers cooking classes and space for private events.

I enjoyed the Farro Risotto and the Grilled Chicken Mole when I visited Braise. The popcorn chicken confit is also delicious. If you want seafood, try the seared Rainbow Trout. Splurge on white chocolate cranberry bread pudding or the pistachio cream puff for dessert.

Triciclo Peru

3801 W Vliet St, Milwaukee, WI 53208
Phone: 414-239-8388
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Near Washington Park, Triciclo Peru is a woman-owned establishment open daily. The location serves empanadas and Peruvian foods.

The interior is trendy and comfortable with a large exposed brick wall and a dropped ceiling with dark and decorative tiles.

Try the Pan con Chicharron, which is fried pork belly and caramelized sweet potato, topped with pickled red onion, spicy rocoto mayo, and cilantro microgreens on a ciabatta roll.

I also enjoyed the Corn & Cheese Empanada with sweet corn, cilantro, mozzarella, white cheddar, and a cilantro sauce.

Morel

430 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Phone: 414-897-0747
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Morel has a rustic yet stylish vibe. The kitchen offers an ever-changing menu of seasonal New American plates, creative cocktails, and craft beer. Morel is located in the Harbor View neighborhood and is open between Tuesday and Saturday.

My favorite meal at Morel was the Pork Shoulder, served with a 5-Year Cheddar Knackwurst, Bacon, Parsnip, Sweet Potato, Celery Root, Carrot, and Mustard Pork Jus.

I would also recommend the House Smoked Ham Biscuit with House Smoked Ham, Biscuit, and Honey Butter. Don’t skip out on the Cookie Sandwich with your choice of Bourbon or Candy Cane Ice Cream!

The Capital Grille

310 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53203
Phone: 414-223-0600
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Located in Westown by the Wisconsin center, The Capital Grille is a national restaurant that serves traditional steakhouse fare. It is perfect for a celebratory evening.

The restaurant requires a smart dress code, with jackets for men and business for women.

I enjoyed the Pan-Fried Calamari with Hot Cherry Peppers appetizer and the lobster bisque to begin my meal.

For an entree, I would recommend ordering a steak–it’s what the Grille is known for. I enjoyed the fourteen-ounce Dry Aged NY Strip au Poivre with Courvoisier Cream. The restaurant has other entree options, like the Pan-Seared Sea Bass with Miso Butter.

Swingin’ Door Exchange

219 E Michigan St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: 414-276-8150
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Nestled between Eastown and the Historic Third Ward, the Swingin’ Door Exchange is a comfortable bar and restaurant with saloon-style decor.

The kitchen serves comfort food, and the bar offers classic cocktails and beer. The saloon is open Tuesday through Saturday, beginning at 11:00 am. Check out the chalkboard to daily menu and drink items!

I had fun during my visit to the Swingin’ Door Exchange. I would recommend trying the Maple Mustard-Glazed Pork Chop Sandwich with maple mustard, caramelized brussels sprouts, Swiss cheese, and applewood bacon with a side of homemade chips.

Tuesdays are for tacos, and Friday is Fish Fry day! Top it off with a Good Island IPA or a Guinness.

Buckley’s Restaurant & Bar

801 N Cass St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: 414-277-1111
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Located in the heart of Eastown, Buckley’s Restaurant & Bar serves refined comfort food. The interior walls of the eatery are a lovely light teal, which pairs well with the dark wood dining furniture.

The restaurant is available for private events, or you can stop by between Tuesday and Sunday.

The Nashville Hot Chicken sandwich is delicious with a fried chicken thigh, coleslaw, pickles, and hot sauce.

The Mushroom Ragu is also great with housemade rigatoni, trumpet mushrooms, porcini, and Italian sausage.

Try the Spinach and Pecan Salad with Grilled Salmon and the 2020 Brick & Mortar Pinot Noir from Anderson Valley, California.

Five O’Clock Steakhouse

2416 W State St, Milwaukee, WI 53233
Phone: 414-342-3553
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The Five O’Clock Steakhouse is a supper club that offers an upscale steakhouse experience in a wood-accented space.

The restaurant has been open since 1946 and is only a couple of blocks from the Milwaukee Academy of Science.

The Alley Cat Lounge within the Five O’Clock Steakhouse offers free live music, classic cocktails, and a 1940’s retro-lounge atmosphere.

I recommend the Bacon Wrapped Filets Medallions with Blue Cheese Topping and a Parmesan Cream Sauce. Also, try the eight-ounce Filet Mignon with buttered mushrooms.

For a smaller plate option, I enjoyed the Thai Buffalo Shrimp and the Fried Calamari. The classic cocktail menu includes my favorite drink, the Sazerac with Bulleit Rye Whiskey, Simple Syrup, Great Lakes Absinthe, and Peychaud’s Bitters.

Mo’s…A Place for Steaks

720 N Plankinton Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53203
Phone: 414-272-0720
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Mo’s…A Place for Steaks is a creatively named fine-dining restaurant serving premium steaks, seafood, and wine in sophisticated surroundings.

The restaurant is located in Westown and is open between Monday and Saturday at 5:00 pm. The dimly lit interior establishes an intimate vibe perfect for a date night.

Start with the Bacon Wrapped Seared Sea Scallops or the Bruschetta. Then, I would recommend trying the New York Strip Loin or the Wagyu Filet.

The side dish options are extensive and include White Cheddar Mashed Potatoes, Sautéed Mushrooms, and The Bauman–Mo’s Signature Double Baked Potato. Many menu items are gluten-free.

Calderone Club – Downtown Milwaukee

842 N Old World 3rd St, Milwaukee, WI 53203
Phone: 414-273-3236
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For a Milwaukee pizzeria, visit the Calderone Club on W. Kilbourn Avenue in front of Pere Marquette Park. It is a classic setting for thin-crust pies, scratch-made pasta, paninis, and an extensive wine list.

Try the Melanzane Fritte, a basket full of crispy eggplant with a side of our delicious marinara sauce.

I also enjoyed the Linguine alla Pescatore with pan-seared shrimp, a jumbo scallop, fresh clams, and mussels, sautéed in garlic, wine, and peppercorn sauce.

For pizza, try the Calderone Works with mozzarella cheese, Italian sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, black olives, onions, and bell peppers.

Milwaukee ChopHouse

633 N 5th St, Milwaukee, WI 53203
Phone: 414-226-2467
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The Milwaukee ChopHouse is located in Westown and has an upscale ambiance with white tablecloths and warm woods surrounding the space’s interior.

The kitchen offers steaks, seafood, and a curated wine list. Milwaukee ChopHouse is open beginning at 5:00 pm from Tuesday to Saturday.

My meal began with the Seafood Bisque with jumbo lump crab, crostini, and chives. Then, I enjoyed the Boneless Ribeye Au Poivre with broccolini and mashed potatoes.

I would also recommend the Lemon Thyme Braised Chicken with Lobster Macaroni and Cheese. Be sure to explore the wine list!

Milwaukee Brat House

Multiple locations
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The Milwaukee Brat House has two locations: one downtown and the other in Shorewood. It is a German-style beer house that is open daily with extended hours on the weekends. The Brat House offers the perfect place to watch a Green Bay Packers game!

Certainly try the Brat House Sausage Sampler with Usinger’s Bratwurst, Italian Sausage, and Bunzel’s Hot Hungarian sausage served with sauerkraut and a pretzel roll!

With about a dozen other bratwurst options, it is a must-have. Try one alongside cheese curds! There is also an option to build your own burger with a seemingly endless list of options.

AJ Bombers

1247 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: 414-221-9999
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Located by the river on the outskirts of Yankee Hill, AJ Bombers is a burger joint that offers shelled peanuts and gives visitors markers to write on the walls.

It has a very family-friendly atmosphere. The restaurant is open at 11:00 am daily; just look for the recognizable bullseye out front to find it!

The burgers are what AJ Bombers is known for; try Colonel Mustard with chipotle cheese and tangy mustard or Bomb-er with bomber sauce and a fried mushroom.

Boozy milkshakes are also a specialty. I enjoyed the Almond Joy with Malibu Rum and Amaretto. The menu has plenty of beer and cocktails as well.

Glorioso’s Italian Market

1011 E Brady St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: 414-272-0540
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Glorioso’s Italian Market offers dining and indoor shopping. It is open daily and has been operational for more than seventy years.

The market is in the Lower East Side, and the building is 10,000 square feet! The market has a deli, offers catering, and serves from the bakery.

When I visited the market, I tried the Eggplant Parmesan Sandwich. I would also recommend the thin crust pizza pies; the classic cheese with mushrooms and pepperoni is my favorite.

Try the cannoli or the Chocolate Peanut Butter Thunder Cake from the bakery. The bakery list is extensive, and the bakery does accept orders for special occasions!

San Giorgio Pizzeria Napoletana

838 N Old World 3rd St, Milwaukee, WI 53203
Phone: 414-276-2876
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San Giorgio Pizzeria Napoletana is a rustic eatery with an open kitchen, so guests can watch the wood-fired cook tasty Neapolitan pizza.

The pizzeria is open in Westown and offers an inviting ambiance. The space’s focal point is the blue-tiled oven, and the table settings match the deep blue color scheme.

I enjoyed the Leanne Jean with roasted bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, Parmigiano Reggiano, Pecorino Romano, and fresh basil.

I would also recommend the Calabrese pizza with mozzarella, spicy Soppersata, Caciocavallo Cheese, Parmiggiano, and red pepper flake. The restaurant also has a full rotisserie menu if anyone is not in the mood for pizza.

Sherman Phoenix

3536 W Fond Du Lac Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53216
Phone: 262-228-6021
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Sherman Phoenix is off W. Fond Du Lac Avenue near the Sherman Park neighborhood. This black and female-owned establishment began as a way to help rebuild the community after social unrest in 2018. Come enjoy delicious food while supporting the local community!

The building hosts tenants or food stalls, so many different culinary options are available.

Visit Rise & Grind for a cup of coffee, Purple Door Ice Cream for hand-crafted ice cream, Buffalo Boss for wings, or Spice and Slice for pizza. Sherman Phoenix is a fun place to go for both lunch and an afternoon snack.

Zócalo Food Park

636 S 6th St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Phone: 414-433-9747
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Zócalo Food Park is a food truck mecca located near Walker’s Point. Visit for global street foods, craft cocktails, and live music.

Jesus Gonzalez and Sean Phelan opened the park to encourage other food entrepreneurs to pursue their culinary passions. Come support these budding entrepreneurs from Tuesday to Sunday!

When I visited, I wanted to try all of the various trucks! I enjoyed the Peruvian street food at Triciclo Peru and the authentic tacos at Mazorca.

I would also recommend stopping by other vendors like Zócalo’s Tavern for a Paloma or Anytime Arepa for the pork and the plantains. It is a fun international experience within Milwaukee!

Damascus Gate Restaurant

807 W Historic Mitchell St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Phone: 414-810-3561
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Damascus Gate Restaurant is right along Historic Mitchell Street. It is a casual restaurant with an old-school atmosphere that serves falafel, chicken skewers, and other Middle Eastern favorites. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner daily and is ideal for group dining.

Start your meal with the hummus and the stuffed grape leaves. The grilled chicken platter, with chicken on skewers and grilled vegetables, is satisfying.

Also, try the falafel sandwich with tahini dressing. For a group dining setting, order the Damascus Tour, a large platter with an assortment of the restaurant’s various offerings like babaganoush and kibbeh.

Guadalajara Restaurant

901 S 10th St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Phone: 414-647-2266

Located near the Walker Square park and the United Community Center, Guadalajara Restaurant serves up tasty Mexican breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes.

The restaurant serves soups, entrees, and beverages in an unassuming and homey atmosphere. This establishment is a great place to grab a bite with friends and share a margarita – or two!

The a la carte menu is extensive and offers quesadillas, burritos, and tacos. Try the Huevos Rancheros or the Huevos Con Chorizo for breakfast. For lunch, I enjoyed the two tacos lunch plate served with rice and beans.

For dinner, I would recommend the Chili Relleno, the Enchiladas Poblanos, or the Caldo de Cameron. Always add the fresh guacamole!

Alem Ethiopian Village

307 E Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: 414-224-5324
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Alem Ethiopian Village is a welcoming spot for authentic African cuisine with a lunch buffet and various vegetarian or vegan dishes.

You can find it on E. Wisconsin Avenue, between N. Broadway and N. Milwaukee Street, and it’s a great place to celebrate birthdays or host private group events.

All entrees come with Injera, and all meat entrees include two vegetarian sides. I enjoyed the Doro Tibs, chicken breast marinated and sautéed with spices, with the Gomen, collard greens with garlic, and the Yater Alitcha, yellow split peas that are mildly spicy.

Wy’east Pizza

5601 W Vliet St, Milwaukee, WI 53208
Phone: 414-943-3278
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Wy’east Pizza is at the intersection of Hawley Road and West Vliet Street. Even though it’s open for dinner between 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm, you can submit pre-orders beginning at 1:00 pm for day-of pickup.

So, if you have a hankering for their unique seasonal pizza, you can order ahead!

When I was in Milwaukee, I ordered the Hot Marmot pizza with pepperoni, fresh garlic. My friends got Mama Lil’s sweet hot peppers and the Ring Of Fire with bacon, sport peppers, a blend of fontina, mozzarella, pecorino romano cheeses, and honey.

I would also recommend trying the Sourdough Focaccia and the Espresso Ice Cream with Molasses Cookie.

Sobelmans

Multiple locations
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Sobelmans is family-owned and operated. In fact, the couple who owns the place – Dave and Melanie – met at the restaurant when Melanie was a waitress and Dave a customer!

The two have expanded the pub atmosphere of the place, and everyone who enters the restaurant immediately feels like family. They have two main locations on either side of Marquette University.

Sobelmans is known for having the best Bloody Mary’s in Milwaukee! Try the Crown Mary, the signature Bloody Mary garnished with a Corona and cheeseburger slider on a skewer!

I would also recommend The Loser burger with Colby-jack cheese, smoked bacon, and buttery caramelized onions. Any way you take on the menu, try a Bloody Mary and a Burger!

Clock Shadow Creamery

138 W Bruce St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Phone: 414-273-9711
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Clock Shadow Creamery is a cheese factory nestled between Harbor View and Walker’s Point! Indeed, it is the first urban cheese factory in Wisconsin, created by the founders of Cedar Grove Cheese, one of Wisconsin’s oldest cheese producers.

Contact them for more information if you’re interested in a cheese-making tour through their factory after you sample their food!

Cheese offerings at the creamery include Cheddar Cheese Curds, Plain and Flavored Mild Cheddar, Double Cream Colby, Ricotta, Chévre, and Queso Menonita.

If you are preparing to make the best grilled cheese sandwich ever, I’d recommend the Queso Menonita with the Flavored Mild Cheddar!

Best Restaurants in Milwaukee

Sanford
Story Hill BKC
La Merenda
Odd Duck
Amilinda
Ardent
Lakefront Brewery
Blue’s Egg
Kopp’s Frozen Custard
Harbor House
Birch
Momo Mee Asian Cuisine
Zarletti
Three Brothers
The Diplomat
La Dama Mexican Kitchen & Bar
Mader’s Restaurant
Mason Street Grill
Ristorante Bartolotta dal 1993
Braise Restaurant & Culinary School
Triciclo Peru
Morel
The Capital Grille
Swingin’ Door Exchange
Buckley’s Restaurant & Bar
Five O’Clock Steakhouse
Mo’s…A Place for Steaks
Calderone Club – Downtown Milwaukee
Milwaukee ChopHouse
Milwaukee Brat House
AJ Bombers
Glorioso’s Italian Market
San Giorgio Pizzeria Napoletana
Sherman Phoenix
Zócalo Food Park
Damascus Gate Restaurant
Guadalajara Restaurant
Alem Ethiopian Village
Wy’east Pizza
Sobelmans
Clock Shadow Creamery

Final Thoughts

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is known for cheese and dairy products, but as you’ve seen through this list, the restaurants within the city are creating a diverse culinary scene.

From pizzerias to steakhouses to traditional Peruvian cuisine, the eateries in the city are developing their own flair for the creative and delicious.

Visit a pub for a fish fry or try a bratwurst at a traditional German establishment; Milwaukee can deliver both. The city is growing and rapidly becoming a regional tourist hotspot.

Check out Milwaukee’s rooftop bars to get a view of the city at the bars on our list here.

If you’re headed to the nearby city of Chicago, be sure to grab a big, juicy steak when you get to town.

Did we leave a restaurant out of this list? Make sure you leave us a comment, and we’ll check it out!

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