By Sarah Riegleman of My Tasty Travels and a Locus Local Expert
Milwaukee, otherwise known as “The Good Land” has always had a special place in my heart. I find myself constantly entertained by this ever growing city. Milwaukee has many eclectic cultures, however it still has that “Sconny” solace everyone seems to long for. From the thirst quenching beers, the squeaky cheese, the creamy custard, the roar of the Brewers stadium, to the absorbent festivals in the local parks, no wonder Milwaukee draws thousands each year to visit.
I tend to be a bit of a foodie myself, thankfully Milwaukee is certainly the city for any palate and budget. Milwaukee is composed of many cultures therefore, you will not grow tired of the delicious cuisines in the area. Hungry for Etheopian food? You got it. Hungry for Thai? You got it. Hungry for custard paired with a side of cheesy fries? You got it. Hungry for a German brat or a sloppy joe? You guessed it, Milwaukee has you covered! Whether you dress in class, dress down, or wear your favorite Brewer gear, you will be welcomed with open arms and quite possibly a “Hey, how’s it goin” by your new favorite server. “Milwaukee-ans” want to make you feel welcome so certainly do not be afraid to try something new, we will not let you down in this city.
I have been known to have a few too many Miller Lites washed down by a couple of Old Fashions in a night, so my go to hangover cure is a sturdy Bloody Mary and a hearty brunch dish. My go to Brunch spot on a Sunday would be The Wicked Hop located in historic Third Ward. Start off the house made bloody mary with all of the fixings which include peeled coldwater shrimp, an Old Wisconsin beef stick, Milwaukee dill pickle, squeaky mozzarella whips, mushrooms and a a green olive, and of course paired with a classic Lakefront Riverwest Stein beer chaser. This liquid brunch is certainly the “Hair of the Dog” that you need. For brunch food, I highly recommend the Chicken and Waffles, you know, a little carb and protein balance to soak it all up. This comfort brunch dish is made with country-fried white meat chicken and a generous house made recipe Belgian-style witbier waffle. Served with maple syrup, orange honey butter and sunday spuds (fancy word for amazing breakfast potatoes.)
Not feeling something this heavy for brunch, no worries! Take a stroll over to the Milwaukee Public Market, located in the Third Ward as well. Here, you can find fourteen plus local vendors that are guaranteed to satisfy any craving. My favorite dining option inside the market is St. Paul’s Fish Company. The fresh seafood, daily specials, and knowledgeable staff will make your visit worthwhile. My go-to dish is the famous King Crab Roll. A lightly toasted brioche roll filled with a voluptuous tender crab salad spiced and season so each bite is full of flavor and crunch. Paired with salted fries and coleslaw. If you visit on a warm summer day, you can enjoy your
meal at the groovy Tiki Bar! Do be sure to take in the sights and walk off that hangover...ahem, I mean “jet lag”
Alright, now that the day has come to an end and you’ve enjoyed a beautiful sunset over Lake Michigan at Bradford Beach, you’re in the mood for something with a little more class. In the mood for steak? Mo’s Steakhouse has you covered. Located downtown, you are sure to get the best service, the juiciest steaks, all paired with flavorful side dishes. Mo’s welcomes you like family, no matter where you are visiting from. Enjoy this fine establishment alone or with a big group and you will not be disappointed. Hungry for a slice of classic Milwaukee ‘za? Visit Balesterie’s Bluemound Inn. Top your pizza with anything you’d like and eat it with a smile knowing all ingredients are made in house and with love. Fine pasta’s and delectable italian dishes can be found here as well.
Saved room for dessert you say? Great! You cannot leave this city without custard. Kopps Custard with locations in Glendale, Greendale, or Brookfield will surely satisfy your sweet tooth, and maybe even your leftover craving for a jumbo butter burger. You can sample their daily flavor of the day, create your own shake or sundae, or have your go to vanilla or chocolate custard. Whatever you choose, you’ve truly enjoyed the best custard in the area. While you’re drooling over the smell of fresh frozen custard, hot fries, and large sandwiches, you can enjoy the fun parking lot filled with cow statues or an enormous waterfall wall. Make sure to smile at the picture of the old lady on the counter. Kopp’s is quite the experience!
That being said, Milwaukee has more than just food but your taste buds and new friends in Milwaukee will thank you for visiting the local cuisines!
Follow her food blog on Instagram: @my_tastytravels