Niki Johnson and her Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design interns have created an amazing visitor’s guide. They have put together an extensive list of all kinds of points of interest in Milwaukee! If you see Niki or any of these students, be sure to thank them for collecting and compiling so much great information.
To make all the information a bit more digestable, I’m splitting it up into several segments. Today, let’s talk about food. Because we all gotta eat, right? Here’s some of the best spots to get your grub on. Click on an image to see it in a lovely full-screen view, complete with each description along the bottom of the screen and navigation arrows to go forward and backward through all the restaurants:
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- Oakland Gyros 2867 N Oakland Ave, Milwaukee, WI This place is more than a restaurant. It’s a city landmark. Oakland Gyros provides American style Mediterranean food with some of the best gyros in town. -Kayle
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- Milwaukee Public Market 400 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53202 Eat, shop, explore. The Milwaukee Public Market is the food hub for the 3rd Ward. You can pick up flowers, seafood, a great bottle of wine or swing in for a quick plate of tacos that are on par with the taqueria’s of San Francisco. Most of the restaurants also sell their products, so you can pack what you love and enjoy a bit of Milwaukee when you get back home. -Kayle
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- My-yo-my 100 S Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53204 Swirl your favorite flavors of frozen yogurt in a cup, cover it in your favorite toppings and pay by weight. Fulfill your frozen fantasies here. -Ariana
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- Stacked 170 S 1st St, Milwaukee, WI 53204 For the burger connoisseur who dabbles in fine condiments, Stack’d is the place to go. With a wide array of patties from portobello mushrooms to grass fed beef, everyone in your group will find something to bite into. If not, leave them at the conference. -Kayle
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- Screaming Tuna 106 W Seeboth St, Milwaukee, WI 53204 Screaming authenticity in the Asian seafood and sushi scene of Milwaukee, Screaming Tuna is a restaurant with the class and quality expected of a Third Ward staple. Aside from the thorough menu offered daily, Screaming Tuna is well known for their specials, offering up to half off of sushi rolls on Mondays. Adding to their already reputable name, Screaming Tuna have teamed up with the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch, contributing to the health of the oceans and areas where seafood is taken from. Who needs any further reasons to try the phenomenal selection of food at Screaming Tuna? -CJ O’Connell
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- Bella Caffe 189 N Milwaukee St, Milwaukee, WI 53202 Bella Cafe, located just down the street from the Marshall building, features a wide array of Collectivo coffee’s and soups and sandwiches provided by the Soup Market. Swing by for a cup of coffee to go, or sit down for a full meal. -Alyssa
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- Kanpai 408 E Chicago St, Milwaukee, WI 53202 For a thorough and immersive experience in the sushi scene of Milwaukee, make a stop in at Kanpai. With various types of sushi, sake, and drinks and a consistent offering of multiple specials, Kanpai aims to please, housing some of the most skilled chefs in the trade. For a true Kanpai experience, indulge in their Omakase special, which leaves the evening meal in the hands of the chef’s choice. No matter what your craving, stop into Kanpai and enjoy the selection. You won’t be disappointed. -CJ O’Connell
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- Café Benelux & Market 346 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI 53202 Café Benelux & Market believes in beer. 250 unique beers are served here. They have one of the largest selections in Belgian beer in town and an amazing european style menu. The food comes out surprisingly fast, considering the quality and complexity of the dishes. -Alyssa
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- Café Benelux & Market 346 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI 53202 Café Benelux & Market believes in beer. 250 unique beers are served here. They have one of the largest selections in Belgian beer in town and an amazing european style menu. The food comes out surprisingly fast, considering the quality and complexity of the dishes. -Alyssa
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- Sake Tumi 714 N Milwaukee St, Milwaukee, WI 53202 The sushi here is off the hook. Seriously, it tastes that fresh! They also have a huge saki selection and offer daily deals on wine and sushi. Sake Tumi is affordable, considering the elegant atmosphere, including a mesmerizing fishtank in the men’s room. -Kayle
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- Rodizio Grill 777 N. Water Street, Milwaukee, WI 53201 A fifteen minute walk from the Pritzlaff Building can take Milwaukee visitors to Rodizio Grill, a Brazilian steak house. For those unfamiliar to the dining experience, guests having the Full Rodizio are welcomed to not only an amazing, well stocked, and diverse salad bar, but also are personally greeted by quick and attentive gouchos. Guest will be offered seventeen carefully cooked meats to sample till one feels satisfied. -Ariana
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- Honey Pie 2643 S Kinnickinnic Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207 Honeypie makes great, Mid-Western inspired food from scratch. From pickles to pie crust they make their food by hand with local meats, produce and other ingredients. Wisconsin raised, grass-fed beef burgers, free-range eggs from Yuppie Hill Farms and vegetables and fruits purchased from Milwaukee’s own Growing Power as well as other nearby farms. – Ariana
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- Café Corazon 3129 N. Bremen St. Milwaukee, WI 53212 Café Corazon (meaning “heart” in Spanish) is a cozy Mexican restaurant in the heart of Riverwest offering options to meat-eaters, vegetarians and vegans alike. With locally grown, fresh ingredients, Café Corazon offers a brunch, lunch and dinner menu, accompanied by a great drink menu. (If you’re looking for a good margarita, this is the place to be!) Sit back, enjoy the Día de Muertos decor, and the vibrant, friendly environment. -Kayle Karbowski
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- Odd Duck 2352 S Kinnickinnic Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207 Odd Duck is a new restaurant located Bay View, serving an ever-changing menu of shareable plates inspired by local ingredients. Their menu is creatively inspired, by all sorts of things as varied as the smell of grass in the spring and street food in Turkey. The Odd Duck’s ever-changing selection of dishes offers options for everyone – vegans, vegetarians and omnivores. Portion size is on the small side, so pick two, and enjoy where each plate takes you.
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- Braise 1101 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI 53204 Braise’s mission is to reconnect people with their food through teaching and advancing community-based food issues, aiming to work beyond sourcing local foods by advocating larger sustainable principles. The space includes community and traditional seating, and a Chef’s Counter for guests to watch the chefs at work. They have an on-site Culinary School and a roof top garden. All of the food is hand crafted; they make their own bread, butcher thier own meats and craft their own cocktails. The food is seasonal, honest and fresh. The menu, written daily, is guided by the idea that the proximity of the farm is directly correlated to the quality of the food.
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- Bel Air Cantina 1935 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53202 One of the most popular places for fantastic tacos and a lively scene, Bel Air provides an atmosphere of authentic Mexican cuisine while maintaining a contemporary and vibrant feel. For the true Bel Air experience, one should make it a point to squeeze into a booth on Tuesdays or Thursdays, when Bel Air offers their $2 taco deal. Round up three of your favorites and be treated to free rice, beans, chips and dips to complete the meal. For a simultaneously traditional and modern Mexican meal, Bel Air has it all very well covered. – CJ O’Connell
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- Riverwest Co-op Cafe The Riverwest Co-op features an exclusive vegetarian and vegan menu. The service might be slow but the food is well worth the wait. Using only seasonal and local ingredients, the cafe is attached to the Co-op’s grocery store where you can pick up some local digs. -Kayle
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- Comet Cafe 1947 N Farwell Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202 Like a little Pixies with your slow food? Voted the best Hangover Food in town, the Comet Cafe is a staple in Milwaukee. With bacon bloody marys, bacon pancakes and sides of bacon at your server’s fingertips, there’s very little to not like about the Comet, especially when you consider their extensive vegan/vegetarian options. – Ariana
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- Maharaja 1550 N Farwell Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202 Derived from Sanskrit, Maharaja meaning “great king” features traditional Indian cuisine inspired by the most northern regions of Punjab and Rajasthan, to the more tropical southern regions of Bengaluru and Tamil Nadu. From the unique variance of our daily lunch buffet to our more distinctive a la carte menu, Maharaja will take you on a culinary journey through the largely diverse subcontinent of India. As the Maharaja’s who once reigned, you too shall experience only the finest India has to offer.
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- The Pfister Hotel 424 E Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202 Walking into the Pfister is like walking into a modernized version of the early 1900’s. The lobby features a piano bar, where you can order a beer or fancy cocktail and nosh on a bottomless assortment of complementary sweet, savory and spicy pub snacks. The interior of this building is adorned with intricate carvings, gold leaf, and hosts the largest collection of Victorian painting for a hotel, in the world. -Ariana
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- Blu Bar 424 E Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202 With a panoramic view of downtown Milwaukee, the Blu Bar is a must see when visiting the area. Located on the 23rd floor of the Pfister Hotel, the Blu Bar’s drinks are a bit pricey, but the view, atmosphere and quality of service makes at least one martini well worth it. -Ariana
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- Ardent (friday 11:30 raman bar) 1751 N. Farwell Ave. Milwaukee, WI 53202 Characterized as “Wisconsin Chic” with “cozy charm,” each dish is handled with passion and care. A 2014 James Beard Award Semifinalists, this gem seats an intimate less than 25 guest. Ramen night is a must on Fridays. Reservation can be made by phone at (414)897-7022. -Ariana
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- Beans & Barley 1901 E North Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202 Adjacent to a fabulously local grocery and gift shop boasting local soaps, teas, cheeses, beers, meats, and more – lives the even more adorable Beans & Barley Cafe. Known for it’s delicious alternatives to meat and gluten, such as a black bean and sweet potato burrito – it’s no surprise the concept of the restaurant was amazing and innovative. From their very soothing, calm, and helpful service to their vibrant menu of fresh ingredients and robust teas, this is the go-to if you want something filling but don’t want to break the bank.
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- Hinterland 222 E Erie St #100, Milwaukee, WI 53202 One of the more accessible of the classy nightlife options of the Third Ward, Hinterland offers the upscale feel of an elegant restaurant while maintaining the laidback nature of a unique gastropub. Having excellent decor and service, coupled with a variety of pricing options, Hinterland offers an excellent downtown experience for any individual. – CJ O’Connell
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- Ee Sane Thai 1806 N Farwell Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202 The most delicious Thai food in Milwaukee, if not the Midwest. Everything on the menu is flavorful and prepared with wonderfully fresh ingredients. My regular favorites include the pad Thai, tom yum gai, chicken satay, the wide variety of curries, spring rolls, volcano shrimp and chicken. One can specify heat for most dishes; the index is 1 to 10. I have found that 5 is as hot as any normal human needs to go; 6 through 10 is for serious chili heads.
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- Lakefront Brewery 1872 N Commerce St, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212 One of the more popular and tasteful of Milwaukee breweries, Lakefront creates and brands a plethora of incredibly unique beers, serving year-round to local Milwaukee and beyond! With brewery tour prices at a steal, there is almost no excuse for not stopping by Lakefront Brewery and sampling all of the wonderful brews that they offer, including some of their truly remarkable seasonal concoctions. Warm and inviting, Lakefront Brewery is a must for local and visiting beer lovers alike. – CJ O’Connell
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- Cubanitas 728 N Milwaukee St, Milwaukee, WI 53202 Cubanitas hides nothing about their humble beginnings and their current stride in the realm of fantastic Milwaukee cuisine. Cubanitas is the city’s first, and only, entirely Cuban restaurant. Cubanitas not only serves up a thirst-quenchingly delicious mojito, the appetizers and entrée items carry through the simple flavors and fresh ingredients that are the mark of good Cuban cuisine.
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- Maharaja 1550 N Farwell Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202 Derived from Sanskrit, Maharaja meaning “great king” features traditional Indian cuisine inspired by the most northern regions of Punjab and Rajasthan, to the more tropical southern regions of Bengaluru and Tamil Nadu. From the unique variance of our daily lunch buffet to our more distinctive a la carte menu, Maharaja will take you on a culinary journey through the largely diverse subcontinent of India. As the Maharaja’s who once reigned, you too shall experience only the finest India has to offer.
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- La Merenda 125 E National Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53204 La Merenda, a casual tapas bar & restaurant located in Milwaukee’s historic Walker’s Point. From antipasti to meze, local brews to South American wines, they will satisfy your craving for regional and international flavor. Every visit to La Merenda only reassures my faith. Enchiladas de Cazador comprised of local game birds is easily the best Enchilada I have ever experienced.
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- Centro Cafe 808 E Center St, Milwaukee, WI 53212 On point service is much appreciated, especially after a little wait. But if you have a bit of patience, your meal will be worth wild. The meals are well priced and portioned. Hot dishes are heart fully crafted in italian inspiration. -Ariana
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- Trocadero Gastropub 1758 N Water Street Milwaukee, WI Trocadero is an awesome spot to grab brunch or dinner! They offer a gastropub menu with dishes like Lobster macaroni and cheese and the to die for adult Grilled Cheese. However, they can get kinda pricey but the atmosphere is amazing and the service is great. Alyssa Anderson
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- Wolf Peach 1818 N Hubbard St, Milwaukee, WI 53212 Wolf Peach is a great restaurant that makes outstanding tapas. The food is consistently good and I have yet to be disappointed with a dish that I’ve ordered. The few that immediately come to mind is the bone marrow spread. I thought it was an acquired taste, but everyone in our party seemed to enjoy it. The roasted duck breast is pretty solid as well. If you’re just in the mood for pizza, this place can easily hack it against Milwaukee’s best pizzerias. Definitely try the lamb sausage pizza. Pair it with a nice burgundy or a lighter Italian red and you are in heaven.
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- Hi-Fi 2640 S Kinnickinnic Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207 Hi-Fi Cafe, settled on a bright street corner in the heart of Bayview, not only offers an incredible cup of coffee, they offer an experience in the creative and thriving Milwaukee culture. With a spot-on retro vibe pulsating through their windows, it is apparent that time spent in the Hi-Fi Cafe will be fun and satisfying. Treat yourself to a truly excellent cup of your choice of beverage, order a house special snack, and relax in the intriguing atmosphere of the Hi-Fi Cafe. -CJ O’Connell
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- Conejitos 539 W Virginia St, Milwaukee, WI 53204 Voted #1 in Milwaukee for Cheap Eats Conejitos offers authentic mexican cuisine at a great price.They have a relatively small menu but you will, without a doubt, be leaving with a full stomach. They specialize in everything authentic; from tacos and enchiladas to mole and cheap chips and salsa, everyone can find something to enjoy at Conejitos.
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- Crazy Water 839 S 2nd St Milwaukee, WI 53204 In the heart of Walker’s Point, Crazy Water is your destination for American Fusion cuisine. Featuring an intimate European bistro atmosphere, this is a great place to splurge on an amazing meal for two, or more! Enjoy the taste of seasonal, organic and locally grown ingredients; some pancetta stuffed chicken breast topped with mushroom pan gravy or some jasmine tea glazed wild salmon with a fantastic bottle of wine. -Kayle
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- Ian’s Pizza 2035 E North Ave. Milwaukee, WI 53202 146 E. Juneau Ave.Milwaukee, WI 53202 Offering locations downtown and on the east side, Ian’s Pizza is a different kind of pizza experience. If you’re looking for an unexpected combination of delicious ingredients you need to go to Ians. Specialities include Mac N’ Cheese pizza, Vegan Spinach and Penne pizza, and Chipotle Sweet Potato. If you can’t just have one don’t worry, it’s a pay by the slice kinda place and if you can’t eat it all there (because the slices are the size of your face) take a whole pizza home for later! Yet, if you don’t have time to go in they deliver too! Alyssa Anderson
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- Palomino 2491 S Superior St, Milwaukee, WI 53207 Palomino serve great Southern inspired fare made from scratch using local ingredients. They have a carefully selected craft beer list as well as an extensive bourbon selection. Yum. -Ariana
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- Svens 2699 S Kinnickinnic Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207 Svens offers a fantastic breakfast/brunch with huge portions! There is quite a large selection on the menu – waffles, a variety of egg and bagel breakfast sandwiches served all day, lots of sandwiches, salads, and soups. You can also do 1/2 sandwich and 1/2 soup, which is really nice when you want both. There are hot and cold sandwiches – mostly meat, but at least 2 vegetarian options (a hummus wrap, grilled cheese…and a tuna option, for us pescetarians).
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- Classic Slice 2797 S Kinnickinnic Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207 Does delicious, huge pizza by the slice sound good? Head to Bay View and check out what they have at Classic Slice. This pizza place delivers incredible food to your table or hotel. They have a gluten free crust in their arsenal of pizza choices. Committed to supporting local suppliers, Classic Slice is a great example of the community feel in Bay View. – Kayle
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- Hue Vietnamese 2691 S Kinnickinnic Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207 An urban restaurant and lounge, they focus on Asian cuisine of the Thua Thien – Hue Province in central Vietnam. Hue Vietnamese is welcoming to all from the food adventurous to those new to the cuisine. If you are looking for a new dining experience at a more than affordable price, you will enjoy your visit to the maximum. -Ariana
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- Izumi’s Sushi 2178 N Prospect Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202 Known for their excellent sashimi, Izumi’s has some of the best sushi in Milwaukee. If you’re over on the East Side and looking for a chill atmosphere and some great food, Izumi’s is the right place. -Kayle
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- Riverwest Filling Station 701 E Keefe Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53212 In need of a delicious micro brew and a vegan sloppy joe? Well, the Riverwest Filling Station is the place for you! With over 20 beers on tap, rotating weekly, and a fresh take on classic American pub food, this new Riverwest restaurant/bar offers a relaxing dinner stop. Not sure which beer you want? No problem, they offer free samples of each beer on tap until you’ve found the right one for you! Really liked that beer? Bring home a growler (64 oz. of your choice of beer) full of it! -Kayle Karbowski
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- Uglys Pub 1125 N Old World 3rd St, Milwaukee, WI 53203 Uglys pub offers a wide range of great food from Ahi Tuna Tacos, to Fried Asparagus, to Mouthwatering burgers. They even have an amazing homemade vegan burger! The food is spot on and the atmosphere is great! PLUS they have a b-e-a-utiful heated rooftop deck! You can come for the food and stay all night for the amazing drinks and on friday and saturday nights they have some rad dj’s come in! Open Tuesday through Saturday from 11am till 2am Alyssa Anderson
