A Guide to Milwaukee's Best Restaurants And Bars

Forbes

21-03-2025

Led by Kyle Knall and rooted in sustainability and local ingredients, Birch is one of Milwaukee's best restaurants.
Though my job takes me to many far-flung and enviable destinations, I'm open to travel tips. But one sent by a close girlfriend via text last year stumped me: 'Have you ever been to Milwaukee? It's cute, and everyone's so nice. We should do a girls' trip here!'
My love of domestic travel rekindled during the pandemic, but I had never given Wisconsin's biggest city much thought. I knew the television show 'Laverne & Shirley' took place there; because of that I also knew there was beer—lots of beer.
When in Milwaukee, a Wisconsin Old Fashioned at Bryant's Cocktail Lounge is a must.
But during a visit a couple of months ago, I found there's far more to Milwaukee than these clichés. I was mesmerized by the city's architecture, from Pabst Brewery Complex's cream city bricks to the stunning Milwaukee Art Museum designed jointly by Santiago Calatrava, Eero Saarinen, and David Kahler. Its scenic perch along Lake Michigan—which offers loads of of recreational opportunities, like the world's largest music festival Summerfest—further added to the city's unexpected appeal.
What opened my eyes the most, however, was the food scene. I already knew about Milwaukee staples like cheese curds and frozen custard; what I wasn't expecting to find was such an appealing mix of old and new, and locals who are up for eating everything.
Kyle Knall is the chef and co-owner of Birch in Milwaukee.
That's what Kyle Knall, a 2025 James Beard Award semifinalist and the chef-owner of Birch, discovered after relocated his family from New York City to Milwaukee in 2020: 'I love the community of Milwaukee, and how people here embrace food and eating out in such an amazing way.'
Even better? You can get a solid grasp of the city's culinary landscape in a weekend. Ahead, a handy guide on where to eat, drink, and stay when visiting Milwaukee.
One Birch's most popular (and pretty) dishes is the Contramar-inspired fish.
Consider Birch, the New American restaurant former New York chef Kyle Knall (Gramercy Tavern, Electric Lemon) and his wife Megan opened in 2021, the quintessential neighborhood spot. It's as lovely for a chill bar hang of burgers and wine as it for a celebratory tasting menu at the counter. The entire staff, from the general manager Jeff Cleveland who pulls double-duty as the sommelier, to the dishwasher—whom I caught flashing a soft smile during a busy service—seems happy and proud to be on Birch's team.
As for the food? It's ingredient-driven, quietly confident, and shaped by Knall's favorite restaurants—his Contramar-Inspired Fish gets its signature red and green from Jimmy Nardello and poblano peppers—and Wisconsin's rich natural bounty. 'The local agriculture, especially the fresh produce is incredible,' he says. 'We have to wait longer for the seasons to change, but what they bring is truly unmatched.'
Speaking of seasons: the Knalls are opening Cassis, their highly anticipated French bistro, in Historic Third Ward this summer.
Bryant's Cocktail Lounge
Bryant's Cocktail Lounge isn't just a bar; it's a Milwaukee institution. Opened in 1938 in a historic residence that once was a Miller Brewing tied house (a bar obligated to buy alcohol from a specific brewery), Bryant's Cocktail Lounge has maintained its cool for over 85 years. It's dimly lit. There's plenty of seats to sink into. A mix of jazz, soul, and classical music plays from the old-school Mcintosh sound system. Drinkwise, you can choose from 600 (not a typo) or so cocktails. There are no menus; instead, chat with the bartender about your preferences. If you're a first-timer, try a signature Pink Squirrel (ice cream, crème de cacao, crème de noyaux) or Wisconsin Old Fashioned.
Allie Boy's Bagelry & Luncheonette
If you're short on time, seeking a quality bite that won't break the bank, or need to shake off last night's excess, Allie Boy's Bagelry & Luncheonette by the husband-and-wife-duo of Ben Nerenhausen and Staci Lopez has you covered. The bagel dough is made with local water and flour, then hand-rolled, boiled, and baked to glossy, chewy perfection. While you'll find traditional bagel flavors and schmears here, don't pass up on the original sandwiches, like the furikake-dusted egg salad and pizza bagel tartine.
Ca'Lucchenzo
Tucked away in Wauwatosa, a charming suburb just west of Milwaukee, is Ca'Lucchenzo by Zak and Sarah Baker. Since 2019, it's established itself as the local go-to for seasonal Italian cuisine—the handmade pastas are exceptional—and warm, familial service. As the menu changes frequently, order whatever sounds good. 'Chances are it won't be on the menu the next time you come over for dinner,' says Sarah. What does stay the same is the rolling cart of amaros, presented after your meal for a memorable finish.
Milwaukee's Three Brothers specializes in homey Serbian food.
Three Brothers Restaurant was established in 1956 by Serbian immigrant Milun Radicevic to keep his family together under one roof following World War I. To this day, the kitchen is run by the Radicevic family, with many recipes handed down from Milun's mother. Your best bet? Come hungry, and come with friends. The food is unfussy, hearty, and loaded with meat and cheese; crowd favorites include the Serbian salad, goulash, and burek (phyllo dough typically stuffed with ground beef).
Milwaukee Public Market
Since opening in the historic Third Ward in 2005, Milwaukee Public Market has gained national recognition by being more than a striking space with 19 diverse and independently-owned food vendors such as West Allis Cheese & Sausage Shoppe, St. Paul Fish Company, and Aladdin. It champions the local community by supporting charitable causes like Milwaukee Public Schools' School-to-Work Transition Program. It's also an event space, where you can book a wedding or a cooking class at Madame Kuony's Kitchen.
A one-bedroom suite at Kimpton Journeyman Hotel
One of Milwaukee's hippest hotels, Kimpton Journeyman Hotel has everything you need to feel you're best while you're away from home. The 158 guest rooms and suites are kitted out with cozy, nostalgic touches—the handsome hand-hewn desks are crafted with wood and cold-rolled steel—while the Mediterranean restaurant Tre Rivali and lively rooftop bar The Outsider make staying put a no-brainer after a long day out. During the daily Kimpton Social Hour (another perk to staying here), you'll be treated to complimentary wine, beer, and pizza. Plus: the hotel's plum location in Historic Third Ward makes it easy to walk to the waterfront and other attractions.