Milwaukee-area restaurant recommendations

What are you in the mood for? As a result of Milwaukee’s ethnic traditions, the city and surrounding communities offer a far wider selection of food styles than most US cities. Ethnic, trendy or all-American, you will be able to please your palate here.

GENUINE MILWAUKEE

CAFE CALATRAVA Milwaukee Art Museum, 700 N. Art Museum Dr. 224-3831 Tucked below the museum’s Calatrava addition is a spot for lunch that is second to none. The museum’s chef regularly updates the menu with entrees inspired by the featured exhibition. Also kid-friendly selections. mam.org/visit/cafe.php

LAKEFRONT PALM GARDEN FISH FRY 1872 N. Commerce St. 273-8300 Stop here Fridays from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. for an award-winning rendition of a Milwaukee tradition, a fish fry accompanied by live music by the Brew House Polka Kings. Reservations for groups of eight or more with seating times before 5:30 p.m. Others served first-come, first-served. lakefrontpalmgarden.com

MILWAUKEE BRAT HOUSE 1013 Old World 3rd St. 273-8709 Milwaukee’s favorite sandwich, the bratwurst, is available here until closing. With a decor that mirrors historic bars in New York City and Milwaukee, the Brat House offers a menu full of sausages and other entrees, full bar service and even specialty beers made for the Brat House. milwaukeebrathouse.com

MOTOR 401 W. Canal St. in the Harley-Davidson Museum. 1-877-436-8738 Motor offers American classics that celebrate discoveries on the open road. Features communal tables. harley-davidson.com

NORTHPOINT CUSTARD Lakefront at 2272 N. Lincoln Memorial Dr. 727-4886 Open seasonally and serving up Milwaukee’s classic custard, plus shakes burgers and fries. Grab a seat at a picnic table and enjoy the people watching and Lake Michigan breezes. northpointcustard.com

THE PACKING HOUSE 900 E. Layton Ave. 483-5054 For nearly 40 years, this family-owned restaurant just minutes from Mitchell International Airport has delighted residents and visitors. Try Garlic Stuffed Filet, Steak au Poivre, Bar-B-Que Ribs, lobster and seafood. Open 365 days a year, it’s known for Friday fish fry. Live music Wed.-Sat. PackinghouseMKE.com.

RUMPUS ROOM 1030 N. Water St. 292-0100 Dining is just part of the fun here. Great flavor and a twist on the conventional can be found in the bar snacks, soups and salads, appetizers and entrees. Think house-made charcuterie items, octopus salad, pork belly and a perfectly made Scotch egg. Add the amazing beer and cocktail selection and have an evening you won’t soon forget. rumpusroommke.com

SAFE HOUSE 779 N. Front St. 271-2007 Visitors are challenged to find this internationally celebrated spy-theme restaurant. (Look for International Exports, Ltd. on the door.) People Magazine said there’s “no better place to get one’s martini made just the way James Bond fancies them - shaken not stirred.” Class - ified areas for parties, meetings. Contemporary American fare. safe-house.com

AMERICAN

THE ANVIL PUB & GRILLE N70 W6340 Bridge Rd., Cedarburg. 262-376-2163 Located in former site of the Cedar Creek Settlement’s restored 19th century blacksmith shop, the Anvil offers casual dining in welcoming atmosphere. anvilpubandgrille.com

CREAM & CREPE CAFE N70 W6340 Bridge Rd., Cedarburg 262-377-0900 Delicious entree and dessert crepes. Dine in the rustic surroundings of the old mill overlooking Cedar Creek. Treat yourself to a light luncheon or dinner of crepes, salads, homemade soup and sandwiches or try a delectable dessert crepe. creamandcrepecafe.com

SAZ’S 5539 W. State St. 453-2410 Located near Miller Brewery, Saz’s features American cuisine with an emphasis on Award-Winning Ribs made with Saz’s Original Barbecue Sauce. sazs.com

BRAZILIAN

RODIZIO GRILL 777 N. Water St. 431-3106 Recognized as America's first authentic Brazilian Steakhouse or Churrascaria, Rodizio Grill came to Milwaukee in 2012. The menu is highlighted by three-foot skewers of unlimited meats, expertly carved tableside, and also includes unlimited appetizers, more than 30 gourmet salads and a wide variety of deserts. rodiziogrill.com.

BREW PUBS

MILWAUKEE ALE HOUSE 233 N. Water St. in Milwaukee, 226-2337 and in Grafton at 13th St., just south of Hwy 60, 262-375-2337 Milwaukee’s own all-grain brew pub located on the Milwaukee River. Hand-crafted house beers, plus special session beers. Menu includes pasta dishes, burgers, steaks and seafood. alehouse.com

WATER STREET BREWERY 1101 N. Water St. in Milwaukee, 272-1195 and in Delafield at 3191 Golf Rd. at Hwy 83, 262-646-7878 and I-94 and Grafton at I-43 and Hwy. 60, 262-375-2222 Milwaukee’s Brew Pub since 1987. Brewing on premises a continuous variety of traditional and specialty beers. Serving appetizers, sandwiches, nightly entrée specials and take-out. Merchandise and gift certificates available. waterstreetbrewery.com

CAJUN & CREOLE

CRAWDADDY'S 6414 W. Greenfield Ave., West Allis
778-2228 Milwaukee's first Louisiana-style restaurant recreates the sights, sounds and – most importantly – flavors of New Orleans.

CONTINENTAL

BACCHUS 925 E. Wells St. 765-1166 At Bacchus, sleek decor and world-class service combine with outstanding cuisine to provide an extra special experience. A glassed-in conservatory provides amazing views. Whether making a dinner of several “small plates” or ordering an entrée, save room for a fabulous dessert (such as the Wisconsin Artisan Cheese Selections). bacchusmke.com

CAFE BENELUX 346 N. Broadway 501-2500 Named after the Benelux region (Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg), the cafe features regional favorites like mussels, pannenkoeken and frites.

TROCADERO 1758 N. Water St. 272-0205 This European-style cafe offers lunch, dinner, an extensive wine list and Saturday and Sunday brunch. Well-known for its year-round heated patio and outdoor terrace.

WEISSGERBER’S SEVEN SEAS On Lake Nagawicka, Hartland. 262-367-3903 Casual or formal dining, indoors and outdoors, with unforgettable views of Lake Nagawicka. Award-winning wine list. Closed Tues. Located north of I-94 off Hwy. 83 (exit 287). sevenseaswi.com

FRENCH

CHEZ JACQUES 1022 S. 1st St., Walker’s Point. 672-1040 Touch of Paris in the heart of Milwaukee offers authentic breakfast, lunch and dinner entrees, using ingredients true to French customs and created fresh to order. Extensive French wine list, including organics. Private parties, catering, take-out, local delivery. chezjacques.com

LAKE PARK BISTRO 3133 E. Newberry Blvd. 962-6300 The restaurant’s location in Milwaukee’s lovely Lake Park means sweeping views overlooking Lake Michigan’s shoreline. French specialties range from appetizers to desserts (caramelized upside-down apple tart served warm with crème fraiche, caramel sauce and cherries). Sunday brunch. lakeparkbistro.com

GERMAN

MADER’S FAMOUS RESTAURANT 1037 N. Old World 3rd St. 271-3377 or 800-558-7171 German as well as continental specialties prepared in the German tradition. Remarkable collection of medieval weaponry, steins and woodcarvings. Cocktails, extensive wine and beer lists. madersrestaurant.com

GLOBAL FUSION

RUYI Potawatomi Bingo Casino, 1721 W. Canal St. 847-7335 Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Thai and Hmong cuisines are featured in contemporary, Asian-styled surroundings. Specialty dishes include Roast Peking Duck and Wok Fried Seasonal fish. paysbig.com/dining/ruyi/

GREEK

APOLLO CAFE 1310 E. Brady St. 272-2233 Your destination for experiencing traditional Greek recipes handed down through generations. Savor authentic Greek favorites like Pastítsio, Spanakópita or a fast Rotisserie Gyros. Enjoy Brady Street patio. For delivery, 765-1925. apollocafe.com

MYKONOS GYRO & CAFE 1014 N. Van Buren St. 224-6400 Classic American food and a wide selection of Greek dishes, including Moussaka (eggplant and potatoes) and shish kabobs. Appetizers include Saganaki (Kefalotiri cheese flamed with brandy) and spinach pie. Full breakfast, including Greek dishes until 11 a.m weekdays, 2 p.m. weekends. Also deliveries. mykonoscafe.com

INDIAN

MAHARAJA 1550 N. Farwell Ave. 276-2250 Top-rated Maharaja offers outstanding North and South Indian cuisine, including freshly baked bread from a clay oven. All-you-can-eat luncheon buffet is a delight and the dinner menu offers tempting choices, including lamb, chicken, beef, seafood, and vegetarian menu entrees. maharajarestaurants.com

IRISH

COUNTY CLARE 1234 N. Astor St. 272-5273 This pub/restaurant, located in a guesthouse, features Irish food creatively re-interpreted. Specialties include house versions of root soup, smoked salmon, corned beef hash and lamb chops. countyclare-inn.com

THE BLACK ROSE 2856 N. Oakland Ave. 763-6526 Traditional Irish pub on Milwaukee’s East Side near UW-Milwaukee. Serving Milwaukee favorites & Irish specialties blackroseirishpub.com

THE HARP 113 E. Juneau Ave. 278-7033 One of the city’s oldest and most popular pubs enjoys prime location on Milwaukee River. Legendary patio and great views of the river even in winter. www.theharpirishpub.com

TRINITY-THREE IRISH PUBS 125 E. Juneau Ave. 278-7033 Don’t miss this “trio of Irish authenticity” - three distinctive Irish pubs called Duffy’s, Foy’s and Gallagher’s. Each of the pubs serves Irish entrees and Irish drinks, as well as a traditional Irish breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays. trinitythreeirishpubs.com

ITALIAN

CARINI’S LA CONCA D’ORO 3468 N. Oakland Ave. 963-9623 Specializing in the freshest seafood, La Conca d’Oro (“conch of gold”) features dishes individually prepared using the finest ingredients or choose from 14 antipastos, five kinds of spiedini, 21 pasta dishes, veal, steak or chicken, and homemade cannolis and cassata. Banquet facilities available. Located close to UW–Milwaukee. atouchofsicily.com

BUCA DI BEPPO 1233 N. Van Buren St. 224-8672 Buca serves up Southern Italian immigrant specialties. Red sauce is “king.” Red-checked tablecloths, offbeat family and celebrity photographs, and Frank Sinatra crooning in the background are among the atmospheric delights. bucadibeppo.com

LOUISE’S 801 N. Jefferson St. in Milwaukee, 273-4224 and 190th & Bluemound Rd. in Brookfield, 262-784-4175 California-style specialty pizzas, freshly made pastas, and foccacia breads, all baked on premises. Takeout and delivery available. Located on picturesque Cathedral Square in Milwaukee and just off Bluemound Road in Brookfield. louiseswisconsin.com

RISTORANTE BARTOLOTTA 7616 W. State St., Wauwatosa 771-7910 The comfortable atmosphere and attentive staff signal the incredible dining experience to come. Enjoy the great diversity and bounty of regional Italian cuisine as well as a wine list worthy of exploration. Order from the regular menu or dive into the chef’s seasonal menu, capitalizing on the best available ingredients (international, regional or locally sourced). bartolottaristorante.com

RYAN BRAUN’S GRAFFITO 102 N. Water St. 727-2888 Carrying the name of the Milwaukee Brewers’ all-star outfielder, this Historic Third Ward restaurant features fresh and innovative Italian cuisine. 5 p.m.-12 a.m. Mon.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun.

WILD EARTH CUCINA ITALIANA Potawatomi Bingo Casino, 1721 W. Canal St. 847-7883 Wild Earth features traditional Italian favorites like Chicken Carbonara, along with classics with a twist – Duck Confit and Frutti de Mare. Premium local and seasonal products used when possible. 30 Italian wines from every region of Italy, hand-crafted cocktails, Italian beer and house-made Italian sodas. paysbig.com/dining/wild-earth-cucina-italiana

JAPANESE

KANPAI IZAKAYA JAPANESE RESTAURANT 408 E. Chicago St. 220-1155 Small-plate items, extensive Sake list and trendy atmosphere make Kanpai stand out. This Japanese gastropub welcomes guests to the Historic Third Ward. www.kanpaimilwaukee.com.

KIKU JAPANESE CUISINE 200 W. Wisconsin Ave. 270-1988 Choose from noodles, special seafood dishes, teriyaki, tempura anda full menu of sushi and sashimi. Happy Hour specials Carry-out.

WASABI SUSHI LOUNGE 15455 W. Bluemound Rd., Brookfield. 262-780-0011 Located just east Brookfield Square Shopping Center. Executive Chef Brian Park creates a variety of Wasabi signature rolls plus chicken, steak and seafood entrees and great salads. wasabisakelounge.com

MEXICAN

BEANIES 102 E. Grand Ave., Port Washington 262-284-7200 Enjoy the best margaritas in Wisconsin as you swing (literally) at the unique tree bar. In business for more than 20 years, this family-friendly restaurant opens at 11 a.m. seven days a week. beaniesmexican.com.

EL FUEGO MEXICAN RESTAURANTE 909 W. Layton Ave. 455-3534 Located near Mitchell International Airport, this stylish yet casual restaurant offers specialties from all areas of Mexico. Dine in a quaint village setting or by a waterfall on the patio. Kids menu, banquet facilities and the “hottest happy hour in Milwaukee.” ElFuegoMKE.com.

RIO WEST CANTINA 2730 N. Humboldt Blvd. 562-5540 Near UWM and minutes from downtown in River West neighborhood, this Tex-Mex spot offers reasonably priced a la carte and combination platters. More than 60 types of tequilas for the adults, special children’s play room for youngsters. Free Wi-Fi. riowestcantina.com

RUDY’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 1122 N. Edison St. (Highland Ave. just west of Water St.) 223-1122 Since 1985 Rudy’s has been known for authentic Mexican food and excellent Margaritas. Entrees include supreme enchiladas, chimichangas and other house specialties. Takeout and group space available. rudysmexican.com

MIDDLE EASTERN

ALADDIN 400 N. Water St. in the Milwaukee Public Market. 271-0400 Authentically prepared lamb, beef, chicken and vegetarian entrees.

ALL ABOARD 433 W. St. Paul Ave. in the Milwaukee Intermodal Station Owner of Aladdin offers some of his specialties, along with breakfast items, sandwiches and salads for travelers arriving or departing Milwaukee.

CASABLANCA 4728 E. Brady St. 271-6000 Offering an extensive vegetarian lunch buffet served daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. For dinner enjoy fine Middle Eastern Cuisine made from family recipes in a warm and exotic atmosphere. On Friday nights enjoy belly-dancing performances. casablancaonbrady.com

PIZZA & MORE

PIZZERIA PICCOLA 7606 W. State St., Wauwatosa 443-0800 Located next to Ristorante Bartolotta in the quaint village of Wauwatosa, Pizzeria Piccola features authentic thin-crust Neapolitan pizzas baked to perfection in a 600-degree wood burning oven. All pizzas are made to order incorporating the freshest seasonal ingredients. pizzeriapiccola.com

SOLO PIZZA 2856 N. Oakland Ave. 964-2850 Featuring personalized pizzas prepared in an open display kitchen. Traditional Italian specialty pastas, appetizers and sandwiches served in a casual chic, modern atmosphere. Located south of Locust St. near UW-Milwaukee.
solopizzamilwaukee.com

SEAFOOD & MORE

HARBOR HOUSE 550 N. Harbor Dr. 395-4900 With breathtaking views of Milwaukee’s skyline, world-renowned art museum and Lake Michigan, Harbor House delivers equally great seafood, steaks, raw bar and cocktails. Pick a combination plate and match filet mignon with Maine lobster, sea scallops, crab legs, Madagascar prawns or salmon. The spacious patio is a favorite spot to watch the sunset and enjoy a signature cocktail. harborhousemke.com

JOEY’S SEAFOOD & GRILL 12455 W. Capitol Dr., Brookfield 262-790-9500 While the atmosphere is casual, diners find seafood and service that is world class. Batters with homemade sauces and dressings make the most of the freshest seafood available. Also steaks, chicken, burgers, salads and pasta. Full bar. www.joeysbrookfield.com

TWISTED FISHERMAN 1200 W. Canal St. 384-2722 Coastal style Crab Shack offering a variety of fresh seafood, crab and specialty drinks. Located in Milwaukee’s Menomonee Valley on the banks of the Menomonee Valley River. A sand beach, lounge chairs and large deck with picnic make this a favorite spot. Or, grab a seat inside and enjoy a Milwaukee style Friday fish fry any day of the week. twistedfisherman.com

STEAKS & MORE

DREAM DANCE STEAK Potawatomi Bingo Casino, 1721 W. Canal St. 847-7883 Award-winning restaurant offers a wide variety of steaks, along with soups, salads and an array of side dishes. Specializes in locally sourced ingredients. Retail-priced wine menu.
paysbig.com/dining/dream-dance-steak

JOEY GERARD’S 5601 Broad St. in Greendale, 858-1900 and in Mequon at 11120 N. Cedarburg Rd., 262-518-5500 Captures the best of the supper club tradition with a family-friendly atmosphere, plush black leather booths and nostalgic photos. Start with a Lazy Susan, add in a daily special or a charbroiled steak with a sauce and side, then top it all off with an ice cream drink. Kid’s menu available. joeygerards.com

MR. B’S STEAKHOUSE 13830 W. Capitol Dr., Brookfield 262-790-7005 This classic Italian steakhouse features juicy steaks, chops and fresh seafood (bacon-wrapped scallops). Beef choices range from a Petite Filet Mignon to the 28 oz. Porterhouse, while the list of Mr. B’s Prime Cuts includes a Wagyu New York Strip. Toppings add to the incredible flavors. mrbssteakhouse.com