Discover the best dining and cocktail spots in Milwaukee, where you’ll find delicious food, rich history, and unique drinks!
Located in the State of Wisconsin on Lake Michigan, Milwaukee is often overlooked when planning a vacation. People tend to gravitate toward larger cities like Chicago, New York, or Washington DC.. However, neglecting Milwaukee means missing out on a city with a vibrant culture, gourmet dining options, and an impressive craft beverage scene, including microbreweries and distilleries.
Milwaukee Food and Drink
There was no time to feel hungry on our recent trip, particularly after gathering at the River Walk for our Milwaukee Food Tour. Our energetic guide Sandy, along with owner Teresa, took us around Milwaukee, showcasing its historic restaurants and must-visit dining establishments. The locals of Milwaukee have a genuine love for good food and drink, and we certainly indulged in both.
1. Mader’s Restaurant
Our culinary adventure began at the historic Mader’s Restaurant, which is not to be missed when visiting Milwaukee. Voted the most famous German restaurant in North America, it has welcomed many notable guests, including Justin Bieber. Beyond its celebrity clientele, the restaurant boasts an impressive $3 million collection of Medieval Germanic weaponry, making it a unique dining experience along with traditional German cuisine.
2. Lakefront Brewery
Next, we made our way to Lakefront Brewery, home to what is arguably the best brewery tour we’ve experienced. Our guide, “Brewery Navigation Specialist” Josh, provided a humorous yet informative tour of the brewing process. This tour, which includes four pints of beer for just $7, made for a memorable stop in our Milwaukee exploration.
Understanding fermentation with Josh: “Yeast eats the sugar, then poops out alcohol, farts out carbon dioxide, and reproduces asexually.”
3. Dream Dance Steakhouse
We then slowed the pace at the upscale Dream Dance Steak House within the Potawatomi Bingo Casino. Known for having Milwaukee’s most extensive wine list, Dream Dance allows patrons to pair their wines with a variety of high-quality meats at retail prices. Our five-course dinner featured delightful dishes such as Wisconsin cheese curd fritters, fresh salad, kangaroo for Dave, and my filet mignon. Chef Matt Baier and the restaurant’s sommelier provided a fantastic fine dining experience.
4. Iron Horse Hotel
Our dining expedition continued at the Iron Horse Hotel, where we enjoyed drinks on the Patio of the Yard. While traditionally beer and wine enthusiasts, we couldn’t resist sampling their craft cocktails. The urban-chic atmosphere attracts a diverse clientele, whether enjoying a drink in the sleek lobby lounge or the private Library. Afterward, we relished dinner at the Smyth Dining room, which blends sophistication with comfort.
5. Bryants Cocktail Lounge
Believing our eating and drinking adventure had ended would be a mistake; we made sure to visit Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge, Milwaukee’s oldest cocktail lounge, filled with a dark red atmosphere that exudes intrigue. With over 400 specialty cocktails crafted on the spot, you won’t find a menu. Instead, describe your mood to your server, and she will concoct a drink tailored to your tastes.
6. Alterra Coffee Roasters
All that alcohol and heavy meal indulgence called for some detoxification, but not until we enjoyed some freshly brewed coffee at Colectivo, a beloved institution in Milwaukee. The line outside this historic River Flushing Station, which dates back to 1888, solidifies its reputation. Now transformed into a cozy coffee shop, it attracts outdoor enthusiasts in a gorgeous waterfront setting.
7. Speakeasy Milwaukee – Safe House
The vibrant drinking scene in Milwaukee doesn’t stop; after enjoying more wine with our meals, we ventured to The Safe House. Its location is a mystery that requires a secret password for entry, adding an element of excitement. This kitschy spot is filled with spy memorabilia, including secret entrances and a giant wall puzzle, inviting exploration at every turn.
8. The Milwaukee Press Club
We found the Newsroom Pub, part of the Milwaukee Press Club attached to Safe House, particularly intriguing. This is the oldest continuously operating press club in North America, established in 1882. Many notable figures left their mark on the walls, and contemporary celebrities like Barack Obama and Jimmy Carter have also signed their names, making it fascinating to visit and admire.
9. Milwaukee Food Tour
Our culinary tour included a stop at the Wisconsin Cheese Mart, where we enjoyed a delightful cheese and beer pairing, and sampled Usinger’s Sausage. The European influence in Milwaukee is striking, given the significant German immigrant population that established expertise in the dairy and brewing industries. This rich heritage contributes to the thriving food culture, showcasing fantastic culinary experiences.
Where Else to Drink in Milwaukee
The Great Lakes Distillery was our first distillery tour, offering insights into the distillation process while tasting their products. This small-batch distillery is dedicated to crafting premium Milwaukee Vodka, Gin, and Whiskeys using ingredients like basil, ginseng, and Wisconsin honey. The focus on quality and fresh ingredients truly sets them apart in the alcohol industry.
Explore Milwaukee’s Food and Drinks
To our surprise, Milwaukee turned out to be an exciting culinary destination. The variety of unique bars and dining options, each with captivating stories and passionate ownership, invited us to appreciate the city. Their enthusiasm for food and beverages left a lasting impression, making us return fans of everything Milwaukee has to offer.
For more information on Milwaukee, consider visiting Visit Milwaukee for a comprehensive guide on attractions and activities.
These delightful spots highlight the best places to dine and partake in cocktails in Milwaukee. Have you explored Brew City? What should our next destination be?
