Milwaukee is a city filled with many fine restaurants, many of which are family owned and operated. Many of the best Milwaukee restaurants are open for lunch, dinner, and even brunch.
Kopp’s Frozen Custard
Kopp’s Frozen Custard is a well-established frozen custard establishment serving Milwaukee and the surrounding area. Kopp’s has a number of locations, from its flagship location in the heart of downtown Milwaukee to its satellite locations in St. Joseph’s, Fernwood and Lincoln Park. The chain also offers more than just custard. A Kopp’s menu includes jumbo burgers and a selection of drool-worthy desserts.
Kopp’s Frozen Custard has been around for a little over five years, but that’s not all that Kopp’s is known for. In addition to the classic vanilla and chocolate custard, Kopp’s offers some of the most delicious shakes and sundaes in town. Using their own proprietary blend of ingredients, their waiters are happy to make a customized concoction just for you.
Odd Duck
Odd Duck is a newer Milwaukee restaurant that opened in early 2012. Its menu is a good combination of locally grown and produced ingredients. This includes a craft beer selection that is worth checking out. The menu is also a great option for families.
Not to be overlooked is the restaurant’s impressive cocktail list. Odd Duck also offers gluten-free and vegan options. In addition to its tasty food, the restaurant offers a relaxed and fun atmosphere.
Odd Duck is also one of the few restaurants in Milwaukee that require guests to be vaccinated. As a matter of fact, it is believed to be the first to do so.
Henry Flach’s
Henry Flach’s Milwaukee restaurant is a new steakhouse with steaks cooked in cast iron skillets. The former Butch’s Pub & Eatery is now a full-service steakhouse. Owner John Roots says he wanted to add a “blue collar” element to the menu.
In addition to their menu, the restaurant also has a wine list. The owner plans to launch wine clubs in the future, too. They’ll also have a full bar with craft beers and a selection of scotches.
They’ve already won a Wine Spectator Best Award of Excellence, for their Lake Park Bistro. Other Milwaukee area restaurants have been awarded the best in the state as well, including Story Hill BKC, Carnevor, Bacchus, and many more.
Sanford
Sanford restaurant in Milwaukee is one of the most popular restaurants in the city. It is a upscale New American eatery that serves tasty meals and offers a casual, yet classy atmosphere.
The restaurant is located at 1547 N. Jackson St. in the quaint neighborhood of downtown Milwaukee.
A food lover’s dream, the restaurant’s menu changes frequently. Guests can choose from dishes such as grilled wild sturgeon on crab hash, char-grilled elk loin with tart cherry essence, and duck breast. All of the foods served are prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
Sanford has been serving the Milwaukee community for years. In 2001, it was named as one of the top 50 restaurants in the country.
Ardent
Ardent is an award winning restaurant in Milwaukee. Its impressive tast of local ingredients, innovative menu and elegant ambiance has earned it a spot in our list of the best restaurants in town. The restaurant is open Wednesday through Saturday. In addition to its fine dining offerings, the restaurant serves beer, spirits and a good selection of local microbrews.
One of the most intriguing features of the establishment is its focus on the environment. To help reduce its carbon footprint, the restaurant uses a variety of recycled materials. A particularly notable touch is its use of induction burners. Additionally, the restaurant uses a streamlined heating and cooling system that avoids the need for gas ranges.
Honorable Mentions
Riley’s Social House and Sandwich Co.
You can’t go wrong with the menu at Riley’s Sandwich Co. They have a variety of gourmet grub, from bacon sandwiches to Buffalo chicken to MKE Philly Giannis Style. For a more budget-friendly option, they also offer two salads for a mere $10.
The restaurant’s menu is extensive, and offers a number of notable perks. One of the more notable is the fact that the aforementioned menu is available to-go. This saves time and effort for customers looking to grab lunch or dinner on the run. Another interesting feature is that the owners are very dog-friendly. Whether you’re looking to get out of the house for a walk or a quick snack, you can take your pooch with you.
