5 Best Restaurants in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

A wide cross-section gathers at this trendy spot in the Bay View neighborhood, where the menu is as eclectic as the decor. Funky art hangs on the walls, and lamps of all colors and shapes cast a dim glow over a bar made from old doors. There's a little bit of everything here, from Moroccan chicken to tuna sandwiches to East Indian pita, in addition to weekly specials. Make sure to save room for a heavenly slice of pie à la mode.

Provincial French bistro fare is served at this café in a large, renovated warehouse in Milwaukee's trendy Third Ward district, just south of downtown. The beer is specially brewed to complement the menu, which is filled with dishes like roasted mussels and thin-crust Niçoise and Alsatian pizzas.

Across from Cathedral Square Park, this chic but casual restaurant has frequently changing art exhibits and serves big, juicy hamburgers and pork-chop sandwiches.

It's named after the Mader family, not after a German mama. Diners here get the ultimate old-world experience, from the Hummels that occupy niches in the entryway to the dark-wood paneled walls. And of course, you'll dine on rich German favorites; weiner schnitzel, sauerbraten, and spaetzle reign.

In an industrial area close to Miller Park and right off I-94, this burger joint makes good on its claim to be "Milwaukee's best burgers." Burgers are made from fresh-not-frozen certified Black Angus beef, served on a baked-locally butter roll. Owner Dave Sobelman plays up the rugged surroundings—and the building's history as one of the original Schlitz taverns—with touches like wooden Sprecher's beer barrels as tables in the cozy, flower-filled outdoor patio. Non-burger options make the grade too: grilled chicken cordon bleu, fried chicken, fish sandwiches and black bean burgers. Come in early for a bloody Mary.