MILWAUKEE KEY MAGAZINE - DINING

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 | American | Italian | Continental | Thai | Mexican
Irish | French | German | African | Organic | Barbeque
Seafood | European Casual | Brew Pubs | Steaks & Seafood
Greek | Japanese | Middle Eastern | Small Plate Dining | Cajun & Creole

GENUINE MILWAUKEE

BENNO'S GENUINE BAR AND GRILL
7413 W. Greenfield Ave. Ph. 453-9094
Benno's is a convenient stop between State Fair Park and Milwaukee County Stadium. Offering 30 carefully chosen draft beers, Benno's is well known throughout the city for its pub food plus. Those who sample the sandwiches, burgers, soups, Friday fish fry, gumbo, prime rib and salads quickly become fans of this casual and comfortable night spot that is representative of a Milwaukee tradition. Open daily at 4 p.m.

JOHN HAWKS PUB
100 E. Wisconsin Ave. 272-3199.
Locally owned for over 33 years, John Hawks Pub provides good food, good drink and good cheer 365 days a year. With outdoor seating and full bar service on Milwaukee’s vibrant new Riverwalk, the restaurant boasts a complete menu of hearty soups, salads, sandwiches and dinners, including a kid’s menu. Fine imported wines, beers and ales available, along with home-made desserts. 7 a.m.-close Mon.-Fri, 11 a.m.-close Sat. & Sun.

MICHIGAN STREET DINER
220 E. Michigan St. 276-7530
The only breakfast and lunch diner east downtown east of the Milwaukee River and one of the few remaining diners downtown, Michigan Street serves breakfast and lunch in one of the city’s historic buildings. Open 7 a.m.-2 p.m. every day, with breakfast served all day Sunday.

MILLER TIME PUB
509 W. Wisconsin Ave. 271-BEER
This new, but authentic German pub stresses the traditions that helped make Milwaukee famous: great food, fun and Miller Beer. Open every day, the pub starts serving its popular hot carved sandwiches at 11 a.m.

SAFE HOUSE
779 N. Front St. Ph. 271-2007.
Visitors are challenged to find this internationally celebrated spy theme restaurant. (Look for International Exports, Ltd. on the door). Time called it "irresistible and inexhaustible." People Magazine said there's "no better place to get one's martini made just the way James Bond fancies them- shaken not stirred." For spies of all ages, the fun begins even before you enter. This local institution's intriguing ambiance is sexy enough for dates and serious enough for business. Classified areas - for banquets, parties and meetings - showcase the Milwaukee Press Club's nonpareil collection of famous autographs from Teddy Roosevelt to Madeline Albright. Contemporary American fare with a continental flare. Souvenir glass with your Top Secret Spy Drink. Lunch 11:30 am - 2:30 p.m. Mon. through Sat. and dinner 4-8 Sun.; 5 - 9 Tues. through Thurs. and 5-10 Fri. and Sat.


AFRICAN

AFRICAN HUT
1107 N. Old World Third St. Ph. 765-1110
Akwaaba! Jambo! Come and experience the sights, sounds and flavors of Africa at the African Hut restaurant. The restaurant features authentic foods from West Africa , East Africa, South Africa, Nigeria, and other regions–all complemented with remarkable African wines and beers. This is the place for a truly new experience. Menu items include Senegalese Beef Yassa, Cameroonian Style Collard Greens, Peanut Stew Banfi, Jollof Rice, Zanzi Fries, and much more. Major credit cards.


AMERICAN

BARCLAY GALLLERY & GARDEN CAFE
158 S. Barclay St. 347-0500.
From breakfast to late night snacks, this spot provides a feast for all the senses. Relax in a decor that features a glass waterfall “curtain” dividing the dining area from the gallery. Rave reviews have greated the creativity of the chef and the gallery’s artists. Plus, a cooler and bakery/deli counter provides wine and goodies for a feast “to go.” Open 6 a.m.-9 p.m. Mon.-Thurs., 6-10 p.m. Fri., 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Sat. and 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun.

BEAR ROCK CAFE
18895 W. Capitol Dr., Brookfield 262-781-7175.
A unique neighborhood quick-casual restaurant and gathering place characterized by a distinctive menu of hand crafted sandwiches, hot & savory soups, garden fresh salads, loaded baked potatoes, oven-fresh breads, and delectable desserts in an inviting, nature-inspired setting, served by a warm, friendly guest-focused team. Start the day with eggs served in wraps and sandwiches, or a freshly-baked pastry. Robust coffee and espresso drinks as well as wine and beer are available. Kid’s menu for 12 and under. Catering available. 7 a.m.-8 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-8 p.m.Sat.,9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. Breakfast served until 11 a.m.

BREW CITY
125 E. Juneau Ave. 278-7033
New, expanded location of Water Street favorite Brew City, now features steaks, seafood and pasta, as well as original barbecue favorites. Watch your favorite games on plasma TV screens or dine outside on the patio. Open 11 a.m. seven days a week. Take-out, merchandise, gift certificates and banquet facilities available.

CREAM & CREPE CAFÉ
N70 W6340 Bridge Rd., Cedarburg. Ph. (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 and try a delectable dessert crepe. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.

HISTORIC TURNER RESTAURANT
1034 N. 4th St. (directly across 4th from  the Bradley Center) 276-4844
Located in Turner Hall, an 1833 Historic Landmark, this popular spot serves classic American and German specialties. Also served is a classic Milwaukee Friday fish fry. Takeout and banquet facilities available. Open 11 a.m. daily.

KLUG'S CREEKSIDE INN
N58 W6194 Columbia Rd.; Cedarburg, Wis. 262-377-0660
Owners Kris and Bruce Klug earned three stars from Milwaukee Journal Sentinel critic Dennis Getto in February 2002. Getto liked the friendly service and how the Creekside Inn has kept up with the times by offering options for lighter dining as well as traditional favorites. Special features include a Friday Seafood Buffet or Fish Fry, and Sunday Buffet Brunch. The restaurant (formerly Barth's at the Bridge) has been operated by the Klugs since August 2001. German schnitzel dishes and entrees reveal the chef's travel experiences, but appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches and other entrees show extra care as well. Take-out orders and banquet facilities available. Lunch and dinner Tues.-Sat., Brunch and dinner Sun. Closed Mon.

ROBBIE'S CAFE
1424 W. Mequon Rd., Mequon. 262-241-3354.
Great breakfasts, sandwiches, salads and soups to take out or eat in, plus lemon bars and toffee cookie bars for a great finish. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon.-Fri, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sat.



BARBEQUE

SAZ'S STATE HOUSE
5539 W. State St. Ph. 453-2410. Fax 256-8778
Saz's State House restaurant, near Milwaukee County Stadium, features American cuisine with an emphasis on Award Winning Ribs, made with Saz's Original Barbecue Sauce. Saz's recently celebrated its 21st year as a popular gathering spot and quality casual dining restaurant. Saz's "Rib" Barbecued Shredded Pork) Sandwiches and Barbecued Shredded Chicken Sandwiches are "Festival famous" and are served at the Wisconsin State Fair, Summerfest, County Stadium and the Bradley Center. Major credit cards accepted.

JERRY’S OLD TOWN INN
N116 W15841 Main St., Germantown. 262-251-4455.
Known throughout the area for its award-winning BBQ ribs, pan-seared Certified Black Angus steer filets and Friday Fish Fries, Jerry's features the finest and freshest ingredients in all of its homemade dishes. Located in downtown Germantown north of Mequon Rd. and close to Highways 41/45. Open 4-10 p.m. Mon.-Thurs.; 4-10:30 p.m. Fri. & 4-9 p.m. Sun.



BREW PUBS

MILWAUKEE ALE HOUSE
233 N. Water St. 226-2337
Milwaukee’s own all-grain brew pub located in a 100-year-old renovated timber warehouse. Enjoy six different hand-crafted house beers at the bar, in the restaurant or at the Riverwalk Hop Side Down Café. Menu includes pasta, burgers, steaks and seafood. Live music five nights a week. Food served noon to 10 a.m. Sun.; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Mon.-Sat.

WATER STREET BREWERY
1101 N. Water St. 272-1195 and in Delafvield at Highway 83 and I-94 (262) 646-7878.
Milwaukee’s brew pub since 1987. Featuring freshly brewed beer, appetizers, sandwiches and nightly entrée specials. A variety of seasonal and specialty beers brewed on premises in the heart of Milwaukee’s theater district and in the Lake Country. Merchandise and gift certificates available. Open daily at 11 a.m.

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. Chef/Owner Jonathan Klug receives high marks for a unique style of seafood-driven Cajun Fusion cuisine, beginning with appetizers like "Gumbo Ya-Ya" or Craw-Tails, half a pound of specially seasoned crawfish tail meat. Entrees are equally authentic - Jambalaya, Classic Chicken Pontalba and French Quarter Cod - and are very reasonably priced. Lively, atmosphere includes the best of Cajun Zydeco and blues music, along with an array of Louisiana artwork. Lunch 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Tues.-Fri., dinner 4:30-10 p.m. Tues.-Fri., 3:30-10 p.m. Sat. Closed Monday.



CONTINENTAL

BACCHUS
925 E. Wells St. 765-1166
The latest addition to Milwaukee’s Bartolotta Restaurant group offers diners one of the best views of the lakefront, an elegant dining and bar area featuring a unique wine wall, and gourmet dining presented by Brandon Wolff, one of the best-known chefs in the region. Lunch 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Mon.-Fri., Dinner 5-9:30 p.m. Mon.-Thurs. and 5-10 p.m. Sat. Reservations recommended.

CHIP & PY'S
1340 W. Towne Square Rd., Mequon 262-241-9589
Well-known throughout the metro area, this popular spot is just off I-43 at Mequon Rd. (half block south on Port Washington Rd.). Featuring unique nightly specials, Chip & Py's offers contemporary fish and seafood, chicken and beef entrees. Warm environment is enhanced by a changing sampling of Wisconsin art on the walls and live jazz Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights. Open for lunch Tues. - Fri. and dinner Tues. - Sun.

DREAM DANCE
Potawatomi Bingo Casino, 1721 W. Canal St. 847-7883.
An intimate, elegant restaurant within the bustling Casino, Dream Dance features unique entrees that include Venison "Rossini” from the Potawatomi game farm. Known for attentive service, an extensive wine list and luxury champagne and cognac carts. Open 5-9 p.m. Tues. through thurs., 5-10 p.m. Fri. & Sat.

EDELWEISS
1110 N. Old World 3rd St. Ph. 272-3625
Boarding on Milwaukee's downtown Riverwalk, Edelweiss offers award-winning cuisine aboard two Euro-style vessels that cruise through the heart of the city and into the Lake Michigan harbor. Available for groups and public cruises. Up to 200 guests. Lunch, dinner, brunch, hors d'oeurvres, April-Oct.

ENVOY
2308 W. Wisconsin Ave. 345-5015.
Located in the newly renovated Ambassador Hotel, a longtime downtown Milwaukee landmark that combines historic charm with a convenient location. Envoy offers cutting-edge “New American” cuisine that combines flavorful styles from throughout the world. Daily breakfast 6:30 –11 a.m., lunch from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and dinner from 4-10 p.m. The adjacent Envoy Lounge offers food until midnight and also live jazz every Friday and Saturday evening. Tableside Sunday brunch 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

METRO BAR & CAFE
411 East Mason Street, Ph. 272-1937
Located downtown at the corner of Milwaukee and Mason Streets, Metro features artfully prepared entrees and award-winning desserts. Enjoy favorites such as filet mignon, fresh seafood and exquisite pasta, or daily specials featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. Extensive wines featured by the glass, over-sized martinis and world-class beers. Complimentary hors d'oeuvres 4:30-7 p.m. Thursdays. Outdoor seating available. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week!

VIVO URBAN GRILL
600 E. Ogden Ave. 283-0045
Offering lunch and dinner entrees with a unique fusion, combining Cuban, Italian and American influences, Vivo is known for its distinctive menu. Serving from 10:30 a.m.- 11 .m. Mon.-Thurs., 10:30 a.m.-midnight Fri., Brunch 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Sat. & Sun., dinner until midnight Sun. Bar open until closing at 2 a.m. Sun.-Thurs., 2:30 a.m. Fri. & Sat.

WEISSGERBER'S SEVEN SEAS
1807 Nagawicka Rd. on Lake Nagawicka, Hartland 262-367-3903
Serving fine seafood, continental and prime steaks with unforgettable views of Lake Nagawicka. Enjoy wines from an award-winning wine list. Closed Tuesday. Open 5-10 p.m. Mon., Wed-Sat. Sunday brunch 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m., dinner 4-9 p.m. Located north of I-94 off Highway 83 (exit 287).


EUROPEAN CASUAL

DISH BISTRO
801 N. Cass St. 276-1577
Located in a historic East Side downtown building, this enchanting bistro is filled with Old World charm, artful cuisine and fine European hospitality. Specialty dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Open 8 a.m.-10 p.m. every day, includng a popular Sunday brunch.

TROCADERO
1758 N. Water St. Ph. 272-0205
Built like the popular Paris subway station of the same name, Trocadero offers a European cafe atmosphere with one of the city's best patios. Open for lunch 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.-Fri., dinner 5 p.m.-midnight Mon.-Sun. Sunday brunch 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Bar hours 4 p.m.-1 a.m. Mon.-Thurs., 4 p.m.-2 a.m. Fri., noon-2 a.m. Sat.


FRENCH

BARTOLOTTA'S LAKE PARK BISTRO
3133 E. Newberry Blvd. Ph. 962-6300
Located on the east side overlooking Milwaukee's beautiful lakefront, Bartolotta's Lake Park Bistro offers customers a taste of authentic French-European bistro cuisine. Specialties include Grilled Atlantic Salmon, Filet Medallions a'Poivre and Roasted Pork Loin. Awarded four stars by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel restaurant critic Dennis Getto. Come for lunch Monday through Friday 11:30 a.m. -2 p.m. Dinner served 5:30 -9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 5:30 p.m. -10 p.m. Friday, 5-10 p.m. Saturday and 5-8:30 p.m. Sunday. Join us for our Sunday brunch served 10:30 a.m. -2 p.m. Reservations recommended. Major credit cards.

JACQUES’ FRENCH CAFE
1101 S. 2nd St., in Walker’s Point. Ph. 672-1040
This touch of Paris in the heart of Milwaukee offers authentic lunch and dinner entrees, using ingredients true to French customs with dishes created fresh to each order. Deli offers carryout service and specialty French items. Open for breakfast and lunch 10 a.m.-3 p.m everyday; 6 p.m. - close for dinner Friday & Saturday.



GERMAN

MADER'S FAMOUS RESTAURANT
1037 N. Old World Third St. 271-3377 or 800-558-7171
Extensive offering of German as well as continental specialties prepared in the German tradition of excellence. Remarkable collection of medieval weaponry, steins and woodcarvings enhance atmosphere. Cocktails, extensive wine and beer lists. Children’s menu, gift shop. Open for lunch 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.- Sat.; dinner, 4-9 p.m. Mon.-Thurs. and 4-10 p.m. Fri. & Sat. Sunday Brunch 11 a.m.-2 p.m., dinner 2 p.m.-9 p.m.

WEISSGERBER’S GASTHAUS & BEER GARDEN
2720 N. Grandview Boulevard, Waukesha (one block south of I-94 at Highway T or Exit 293) 262-544-9315
Authentic German restaurant designed like a country inn offers authentic German and American cuisine. Bar and biergarten offer modern appetizers and Weissgerber sausages, complemented by the house brew and many outstanding beers and wines. Also serving classic Wisconsin Friday fish fry. Lunch 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Mon.-Fri., dinner 5-10 p.m. Mon.-Sat. Closed Sundays.



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 Pastitsia, Spanakopita or a fast Rotisserie Gyro. The interior is a contemporary interpretation of the classical Apollo. Patio adds to the European atmosphere. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun. through Tues., 11 am-midnight Wed-Sat.

MYKONOS GYRO & CAFE
1014 N. Van Buren St. 224-6400
Unlike many Greek restaurants, where the menu doesn’t go much beyond gyros, Mykonos offers a wide selection of Greek dishes, including classics like Mousaka (eggplant and potatoes) and shish kabobs. Appetizers include Saganaki (Kefalotiri cheese flamed with brandy) and Spanakopita (a spinach pie). For early birds, Mykonos offers a full breakfast, including Greek dishes, until 11 a.m. weekdays, 2 p.m. on weekends. Also deliveries. Open 7 a.m.- 3 a.m. Sun.-Thurs., 7 a.m.-3:30 a.m. Fri. & Sat.


IRISH

COUNTY CLARE
1234 N. Astor St. Ph. 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. 11:30 a.m. -9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Pub closes at 1 a.m. as a courtesy to County Clare's guests. Major credit cards.

52 STAFFORD
52 Stafford St., Plymouth, Wis. (920) 893-0552 or (800) 421-4667
Irish and regional specialties are featured at this Irish Guest house north of Milwaukee. Authentic Irish pub adjoins the dining room, offering Ireland's best beer and whiskey, along with Irish music every Wednesday.


ITALIAN

OAKLAND TRATTORIA
2856 N. Oakland Ave. Ph. 964-2850.
Oakland Trattoria is a casual Italian restaurant on Milwaukee's East Side, located near UW-Milwaukee. The restaurant features wood-fired ovens that give the homemade pizzas and pastas their distinctive flavor. A wide range of pizzas are offered, or diners can choose toppings from artichokes to zucchini. Salads, sandwiches and a Friday fish fry also are available. 11 a.m.-midnight seven days a week.

LOUISE'S
801 N. Jefferson St. Ph. 273-4224.
Located across from Cathedral Square Park on Milwaukee's Eastside, Louise's combines the traditions and secrets of Italian cooking with California innovation. Louise's offers fresh, delicious food in a relaxed, upscale atmosphere. Choose from specialty pizzas, freshly made pastas and foccacia breads, all baked on premises. Open daily at 11 a.m. with outdoor patio dining in warmer months. The entire menu also is available for take-out and delivery.

CARINI'S LA CONCA D'ORO
3468 N. Oakland Ave. Ph. 963-9623
Specializing in the freshest seafood, La Conca d'Oro ("conch of gold") features dishes individually prepared using the finest ingredients. Owner and chef Peter Carini, whose father was a fisherman in Sicily, shows his expertise in his signature dish, a delicious mix of shrimp, scallops, mussels, clams and squid in tomato sauce. Or choose from 14 antipastos, five kinds of spiedini, 21 pasta dishes, veal, steak or chicken, and homemade cannolis and cassata. The vegetarian lunch buffet is popular (regular menu items also are available). Banquet facilities are available for up to 75 people at this restaurant that has earned raves from a bevy of critics. Reservations recommended on weekends. Lunch buffet 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Tue.-Fri. Open 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Tuesday - Thursday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Fri.; 4 -11 p.m. Sat. and 4-9 p.m. Sun. Major credit cards. accepted.

BUCA DI BEPPO
1233 N. Van Buren St. Ph. 22-GUMPA (224-8672)
Buca serves up family-sized platters of real, Southern Italian immigrant specialties. Here, red sauce is "king." Red-checked tablecloths, offbeat family and celebrity photographs, and Frank Sinatra crooning in the background are among the atmospheric delights. Buca means "basement" in Italian, and the warmth and fun of this Italian eatery will make you think you're in New York City's Little Italy. Dinner is served 5- 10 p.m. weekdays, 5-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 4-10 p.m. Sunday. Call ahead for reservations Sunday-Thursday, waiting list Friday and Saturday. AE, V, MC, DClub.

RISTORANTE BARTOLOTTA
7616 W. State St. and 2625 N. Downer Ave. Ph. 771-7910
Located in the heart of Wauwatosa and on Milwaukee's east side, Ristorante Bartolotta celebrates the traditional tastes of Italy. Specialties include Brodetto di Pesce, Branzino all'Acqua Pazza and Spiedini di Maiale. Awarded four stars by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel restaurant critic Dennis Getto. Come join us for lunch Monday through Friday 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Dinner served Monday through Thursday 5:30 p.m.-10 a.m., Friday and Saturday 5-10:30 p.m. and Sunday 5-8 p.m. Located just five miles west of downtown on State Street. Call for reservations. Major credit cards.

PIZZERIA PICCOLA
7606 W. State St. 443-0800
Located next to Ristorante Bartolotta in the village of Wauwatosa, this casual-dinining spot run by Milwaukee's Bartolotta Restaurants focuses on truly thin-crust Neapolitan pizzas, baked in a rustic wood-burning oven. Open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Mon.-Thurs., 11-10 p.m. Fri. & Sat. and 4-9 p.m. Sun.

GIOVANNI'S
1683 N. Van Buren St. 291-5600
This Milwaukee favorite for more than 30 years offers a range of pasta, chicken, fish, steak and chop entrees, but diners frequently turn to the list of veal dishes. Complimentary transportation to and from all downtown locations. Lunch 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Tues. -Fri; dinner 4-10 p.m. Sun.-Thurs., 4-11 p.m. Fri. & Sat.


JAPANESE

NANAKUSA
408 E. Chicago St. Ph. 223-3200.
The elegantly simple interior of Nanakusa is a prelude to the artistry of the Japanese specialties served. Knowledgeable servers offer guidance with a menu that includes unusual choices as well as more familiar fare, sushi and a large selection of dishes from the kitchen. Sushi bar. Lunch 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Mon-Fri.; Dinner 5-10 p.m. Sun.-Thurs., 5-11 p.m. Fri. & Sat.

BENIHANA
850 N. Plankinton Ave. 270-0890
This Japanese-style hibachi steakhouse features "teppanyaki” meals prepared tableside by a performing chef. Traditional restaurant-style dining also is available. Feast on steak, chicken and seafood entrees and enjoy popular appetizers at the Sushi Bar. Lunch 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Wed.-Fri.; Dinner 5-9:30 p.m. Mon.-Thurs., 5-10 p.m. Fri., 4-10 p.m. Sat. and 4-9 p.m. Sun.

MEDITERRANEAN

THE GROVE
890 Elm Grove Rd., Elm Grove.  262-814-1890.
Serving fresh and unique American and Mediterranean specialties, including Greek, Italian and vegetarian entrees, this popular Elm Grove spot is just north of Blue Mound Rd. Open for lunch 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sun.; dinner 4 - 9 p.m. Mon.-Thurs, 4-10 p.m. Friday & Sat., and 3-8 p.m. Sun. Live music Wednesday-Saturday evenings.

MEXICAN

LA PERLA
734 S. 5th St. 645-9888
The lively atmosphere at this popular near south-side night spot combines excellent Mexican dishes from tacos to spicy red snapper with 100 brands of tequila. Well-lit, secure parking lot. Open 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-11:30 p.m. Fri. & Sat.

BEANIES
102 E. Grand Ave., Port Washington (less than 30 minutes north of Milwaukee) 262-284-7200
Open seven days a week, Beanies offers tacos, burritos, enchiladas and more. It's a family-friendly restaurant that features a fun decor with an indoor "tree," complete with swings that double as barstools.

RUDY'S MEXICAN RESTAURANT
1122 N. Edison St. Ph. 223-1122.
Since 1985, Rudy's has served fresh, authentic Mexican food in Milwaukee. Popular items include fajitas, chuletas, tacos, tostadas and enchiladas. 'Gracie's Special' combines mini flautas with cheese-covered nachos. A selection of premium margaritas made with a number of top-shelf tequilas complement the menu.

MIDDLE EASTERN

ALADDIN
202 W. Wisconsin Ave. 271-9870.
One of Milwaukee’s most popular restaurants has moved to Wisconsin Avenue to better serve downtown residents and visitors. Offering authentically prepared lamb, beef, chicken and vegetarian entrees, the new Aladdin offers fast service, whether you dine in or carry out. Also offering downtown delivery to meetings and offices. Open 11 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Mon.-Sat.

ORGANIC

BAROSSA
235 S. Second St. Ph. 272-VINO (8466).
Milwaukee's first restaurant to specialize in organically grown food, purchased from farmers throughout the Midwest. A wine bar and full-service restaurant, Barossa is located in the Walker's Point area just south of downtown. Organic meat and vegetarian dishes are reasonably priced, as well as healthy. Lunch 11a.m.-2 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; Dinner 5-10 p.m. Sun.-Thurs. and 5-11 p.m. Fri. & Sat.; Late Night Menu Fri. & Sat. 11 p.m.-1 a.m.; Sunday Brunch 10 a.m.-3 p.m.


SEAFOOD

ANCHORAGE
4700 N. Port Washington Rd. 962-4710 With its picturesque location on the banks of the Milwaukee River, fresh fish is the specialty at The Anchorage. Large picture windows allow diners to take full advantage of the views. As the restaurant serving the Milwaukee River Hilton, the Anchorage has extended hours that make it a favorite of visitors and locals alike. Menu 'regulars' such as Thai Marlin are joined by daily seafood specials. Breakfast 6:30-11 a.m. Mon.-Fri., 7-11 a.m. Saturday and Sunday. Lunch 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Dinner 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week.


THIRD STREET PIER
1110 N. Old World Third St. Ph. 272-0330
Fine steaks and seafood are augmented by a variety of house recommendations, featuring both standard and unique fare. Award-winning chef Dennis Stukel offers three to four never-repeated weekly specials, sometimes revisiting classical cuisine and sometimes on the cutting edge. Open for dinner 5-10 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 4-9 p.m. Sundays. Cocktail lounge open daily at 4 p.m. Valet parking. Major credit cards.

SMALL PLATE DINING

SWIG
1227 Water St., 431-7944
This new Water Street restaurant introduces small-plate dining. Owner Joe Sorge has created an elegant spot with an eclectic wine and cocktail selection. Chef Frank Ortlieb offers 25 small-plate selections starting at $6.50 and will vary the portion size. Open 4 p.m.-midnight every day. Happy hour 4-6 p.m. Mon-Fri. includes complimentary menu samples.


STEAKS & SEAFOOD

BUTCH’S CLOCK STEAKHOUSE & MARTINI BAR
800 N. Plankinton Ave. 347-0142
Known for large steaks and truly jumbo seafood entrees, the Clock features daily dinner specials. Visitors enjoy full dinners and popular drinks at reasonable prices in a relaxing atmosphere that includes more than 50 antique clocks. Open 5-10 p.m. Mon.-Thurs., 5-11 p.m. Fri. & Sat.

BUTCH’S OLD CASINO STEAKHOUSE
555 N. James Lovell St. 271-8111
Steaks are cooked to order behind the bar at this long-time Milwaukee favorite that dates back to the 1940s. Party room will accommodate 30. Open 5-10 p.m. Mon.-Thurs., 5-11 p.m. Fri. & Sat.

MR. B's, A BARTOLOTTA STEAKHOUSE
17700 W. Capitol Dr. (Stonewood Village) Ph. 790-7005.
A classical Italian steakhouse specializing in prime aged beef, roasted in a huge wood-burning oven. Also featuring authentic Italian specialty dishes and ocean-fresh seafood. Sophisticated, yet casual surroundings with professional team service. Open 5-9 p.m. Sun.-Thurs.; 5-10 p.m. Fri. & Sat. Reservations recommended.

PORTERHOUSE
800 W. Layton Ave 744-1750
Located minutes from Mitchell International, PorterHouse offers a broad menu that includes charbroiled steaks, chops and seafood and even the perfect menu for diners on the "Atkin's Plan." Open 5-10 p.m. Mon.-Thurs.; 4-11 p.m. Fri.; 5-11 p.m. Sat., and 4-9 p.m. Sun. Live music Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

SELEN'S HOUSE OF PRIME
3107 E. Layton Ave., Cudahy 744-7890
Just minutes from Mitchell International, Selen's is known for its award-winning prime rib and wide variety of steaks. The popular South Side restaurant also offers seafood, pasta, veal, chicken and vegetarian entrees. Open 11 a.m-10 p.m. Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday and 4 p.m.-11 p.m. Sat.

MILWAUKEE CHOP HOUSE
633 N. 5th St. in the Hilton Milwaukee City Center 226-CHOP
Casual, upbeat contemporary steakhouse known for its steaks, lamb, fresh seafood, attentive service and an affordable wine list including an extensive wine-by-the-glass list. Open 5-10 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Reservations may be made online.

THAI

BANGKOK HOUSE
4698 S. Whitnall Ave. Ph. 482-9838.
Wonderful Thai specialties, many served to your choice of heat. Located 1.5 miles (northeast corner) from Mitchell Field in Whitnall Square Shopping Center. Lunch buffet 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; dinner 2:30-9 p.m. Tues.-Fri., noon-10 p.m. Sat., noon-9 p.m. Sun. Closed Monday. No lunch buffet on weekends.

THE KING & I
823 N. Second St. Ph. 276-4181
Elegant decor where casual dress is welcomed. Milwaukee’s favorite for Thai cuisine, at both convenient locations, downtown and the northwest side. Appetizers, soups, noodle dishes and entrees featuring seafood, poultry, pork and vegetarian choices. At lunch, order from the menu or select the buffet, served Mon.-Fri., 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Major credit cards. Located in downtown Milwaukee, The King & I (414-276-4181) is open from 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 5-11 p.m. Sat. and 4-9 p.m. Sun.

CHIANG MAI CAFE
20101 W. Bluemound Rd., Brookfield (Westpoint Plaza) Ph. (262) 784-7130.
Features both Thai and Chinese cuisine. Offers seafood, chicken, beef, Thai-style noodles and vegetarian entrees. Thai-style dishes are specialties. Wide variety of appetizers, soups and salads. Open every day: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Mon.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Fri. & Sat., 4 p.m.- 9 pm. Lunch buffet 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday-Friday.

BANG THAI CUISINE
6107 W. Mequon Rd., Mequon. Ph.262-242-4455
Savor Thai specialties, elegantly served in a lovely setting. Conveniently located in Milwaukee's northshore area, the emphasis here is on health-conscious, authentic, home-style Thai cooking. Fresh seafood is a specialty here. At lunch, enjoy soups, salads, curry dishes, noodle dishes and a range of entrees. At dinner, try an unusual appetizer like pork cake or golden fried tofu, and finish the meal with homemade coconut ice cream. Open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Mon.-Fri., noon-9 p.m. Sat., 4-9 p.m. Sun. Sunday Brunch returns in fall, phone for details.