www.milwaukeebrewingco.com
LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER 4
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ROGUES GALLERY
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RUM CHA CHA CHA
Discover what makes this new establishment a new destination that is not to be missed!
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You’ve seen it around and you have probably wondered about it. Now learn about this locally produced liquor and try out some fun ways to drink it!
CHEAPSHEET
BARTENDER OLYMPICS
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Meet the contenders of this year’s fourth Annual Bartender Olympics. Learn about each athlete and decide which bar to root for.
BEST OF MILWAUKEE BARS
We take you through the highlights of Milwaukee’s bar scene with the help of OnMilwaukee.com! Be sure to see more winners online at OnMilwaukee.com/bars.
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13 14 15 16 17
Best Bar on/near Brady Street
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Best Bar in Walker’s Point
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20 21 22 23 28 29 30 31 32
Best Bar in Bay View
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Best Bar Downtown
Best Bar in the Third Ward Best Bar on/near Water Street
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THE STANDARD
Let us introduce you to what is sure to be your new cozy bar hideout.
LET’S MAKE A DRINK
With so many wonderful liquors available at your local store, why not take a bottle home and make some delicious drinks? We can help! Let us suggest drinks using four different liquors.
Best Bar in Riverwest Best Bar on/near North Avenue Best Bar on/near Milwaukee Street or Cathedral Square
Best LGBT Bar Best Scenic View Best Bar in a Restaurant Best Eclectic Drink Menu Best Bar Name Best Hotel Bar Best Free Snacks Best Games and Trivia Best Karaoke
PUBLISHERS Andy Tarnoff-OnMilwaukee.com Katie Donoghue Jonathan Warobick
DEAR MILWAUKEE, We are happy to release this very special issue, our largest to date. We have teamed up with OnMilwaukee.com for a unique printed issue
EDITOR Katie Donoghue
SALES AND CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
dedicated to the best watering holes & their keepers in Milwaukee.
Caroline McDonald
Right now you’ve got a perfect guide to the city’s best bars. Keep it
CREATIVE DIRECTOR & GRAPHIC DESIGNER
handy to refer back to when you’re sitting around trying to figure out the best place to fit your mood, location or wallet. Plus, we’ve doubled our Cheap Sheet for this special issue, which, we’ve got to admit, is our own personal guide we refer to on a weekly basis. OnMilwaukee.com dubs February “Bar Month” every year and features great reviews on bars, profiles on bartenders and delicious drink recipes on what you have named the best bars of Milwaukee. We have given it another place to live--not just on your screens, but in your hands. OnMilwaukee.com and their staff have provided some well-written content to match our fresh graphics in this beautifully designed printed magazine. Hope you enjoy our collaboration and this awesome curated “Best of” Milwaukee Bar Guide!
Jonathan Warobick
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS OnMilwaukee.com Staff writers Molly Snyder Royal Griggs
SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER Katie Donoghue
EXECUTIVE WEB PUBLISHER Bas Kuis
ROGUES GALLERY 134 E Juneau Ave
Written by: Royal Griggs “Rogues is a little bit everything. And the stuff I’m into, like the raw brick and metal decor. We cater to everybody, having DJs who spin everything, but the music mostly tends to be classic rock and classic hip-hop. And we have to play that LMFAO song, of course,” says owner Nate Showers. Rogues was built around the lights hanging over the bar, which Showers says he ordered online from “a kid in Iowa” who works out of his home. Showers and a friend hung the lights from a heavy-duty pipe that he now says was a bit of overkill. “Just too much fun with a plasma torch,” he says. The bar is a rich, dark wood lined with chairs by Flux Design. The wood floor and accents around the exposed brick still smell pleasantly of varnish. “Everybody keeps telling me that. It must be the wood cleaning products I use,” says Showers. The concept for Rogues Gallery came from one of Showers’ 10 notebooks that he filled with bar ideas and possible names over the years. “With Rogues, I envisioned a crew of the ‘usual suspects,’ my people drinking at the bar when I come in,” says Showers.
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The gallery part grew out of a combination of Showers’ appreciation and the space itself, which seemed naturally suited. Showers had been involved in monthly art shows at Jackalope Lounj and had always liked art. “I have some pieces in here now that were done just with spray paint and some stencils. It blows my mind that people can be that creative,” says Showers. Monday nights is Bangarang at Rogues Gallery, a service industry party formerly housed at Jackalope, hosted by DJ E.Rich and another local guest DJ and when everything is half off. The first Saturday of each month Rogues hosts DJ Why B’s alter ego “Rick Jameson Experience,” when a live artist shares the stage with “Rick Jameson,” two local DJs and one from Chicago. The current plan is for the art to be changed monthly. Rogues hours are limited until the patio season, which Showers expects will come – or he’ll make happen – in April. Showers says the patio will be open for St. Patrick’s Day, but full bar service won’t happen until the following month. “When summer hits, we’ll be here seven days a week, probably opening at noon Saturday and Sunday and 5 p.m. weekdays,” he says.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • READ MORE ABOUT ROGUES GALLERY AT WWW.ONMILWAUKEE.COM • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Most commonly described as the delicious taste of “milk left over from Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal” has taken the cake for best shot. The recent Rum Chata phenomenon has taken over as a buzzworthy booze. Think of it as an updated White Russian, but with a great delicious cinnamon flavor. What is Rum Chata? It’s a Horchata plus rum. The familiar Mexican Horchata is a “rice water” made from rice and sugar and is different than the Horchata made from a Chufa nut. Rum Chata is a delicious rum cream with rice, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon. Check out these super tasty recipes and as a taste test, take a shot. You’ll have new best friends in no time if you share a bottle at your next party.
Girl Scout Cookie (Thin Mint)
• 1 oz Rum Chata® • .375 oz chocolate vodka • .125 oz green Creme de Menthe Shake ingredients with ice and strain into liqueur glass; garnish with chocolate chips.
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SnoMageddon • 2 parts Rum Chata® • 1 part Absinthe Shake and pour over ice in rocks glass.
Cake & Ice Cream • 1 part Rum Chata® • 1 part cake flavored vodka Shake and pour over ice in rocks glass.
The Honey Badger • 2 parts honey bourbon or whiskey • 1 part Rum Chata®
Java Chata • 2 parts Rum Chata® • 1 part fresh brewed espresso, chilled to room temperature Combine over rocks in tall glass.
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WHAT IS THE CITY OF MILWAUKEE’S OFFICIAL ADVERTISING SLOGAN? “A GREAT PLACE ON A GREAT LAKE” WAS REPLACED IN 1995 WITH “MILWAUKEE: GENUINE AMERICAN.”
VOTED OM WAUKEE.C BY ONMIL R EA D E R S
MILWAUKEE’S BEST
BAR ON/NEAR BRADY STREET BEST -OF- #
MKE
1
The Nomad World Pub
OnMilwaukee
1401 E. BRADY ST., (414) 224-8111 AUTHORED BY:
Staff Writers
The Brady Street area is known second only to Water Street by out-of-towners looking to experience true Milwaukee. To many locals, however, Brady Street is where you can find what the heart of the city is all about. There are the traditions that have become ingrained over time, such as the Wolski’s bumper stickers at closing time, and the everyman elegance of the Hi-Hat Lounge. One of the best traditions, however, is when the World Cup is being played.
Wolski’s
2
1836 N. PULASKI ST. (414) 276-8130
Give this a try!
WE DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THAT YOU
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EDITOR’S PICK
RUNNER UPS
The best place in Milwaukee to celebrate the beautiful game is at the Nomad World Pub, 1401 E. Brady St., our readers’ choice for best Brady Street-area bar.
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Jo-Cat’s Pub 1311 E. BRADY ST. (414) 765-9955
Hi-Hat Garage
1701 N. ARLINGTON PLACE, (414) 225-9330
If you’ve gone anywhere on Brady Street, it’s most likely been to the Hi-Hat. This bar aims to please any time of day with their Lounge & Garage. Go for the food, stay for the drinks. At night the garage transforms into an upbeat spot with a young nightlife crowd where you can get a $5 mystery liter of beer. Or, head downstairs to the lounge for a calmer late night crowd that sips on martinis. Either way, Hi-Hat is a well rounded Brady Street destination.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE AND MORE WINNERS, VISIT WWW.ONMILWAUKEE.COM/BARS
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MILWAUKEE’S BEST
BAR IN WALKER’S POINT BEST -OF- #
MKE
1
The Bomb Shelter
OnMilwaukee
1517 S. 2ND ST., (414) 384-2662 AUTHORED BY:
Staff Writers
Once again, The Bomb Shelter was voted as the top drinking destination in this near South Side neighborhood. With its brewing memorabilia decor and classic Milwaukee beers the Bomb Shelter pays homage to the city’s brewing history while also stocking an incredible selection of beer. The down-to-earth bar has made a big splash since opening in the summer of 2008 and attracts beer lovers from all over the city. A popular hang out to watch football games, they not only have free food at half time, like chili or pulled pork sandwiches, but you also get a delicious free shot for every touchdown along with a french horn count down to Go Pack Go!
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Steny’s
2
800 S. 2ND ST. (414) 672-7139
Give this a try!
WE DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THAT YOU
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EDITOR’S PICK
RUNNER UPS
Join their Suds Club every Wednesday to sample beers for ten bucks a night including seven to eight samples, full featured bottle and membership benefits.
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MOCT
240 E. PITTSBURGH AVE. (414) 273-6628
Sabbatic
700 S. 2ND ST., (414) 220-9440
A great corner bar on 2nd Street, Sabbatic is unassuming with a comfortable atmosphere making anyone feel welcome. A good bar to kick back after a day of work, grab a shot of whiskey and a cold beer.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE AND MORE WINNERS, VISIT WWW.ONMILWAUKEE.COM/BARS
MILWAUKEE’S BEST
BAR IN THE THIRD WARD BEST -OF- #
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MKE
TheWicked Hop
OnMilwaukee
345 N. BROADWAY, (414) 223-0345 AUTHORED BY:
Staff Writers
For the third year in a row, OnMilwaukee.com readers picked The Wicked Hop as their favorite Third Ward watering hole. The upscale sports bar named after a baseball term is a great place to cheer on the team or catch up with friends and coworkers who are sports-minded or not. Stop in for lunch; after a shopping in the Third Ward or if you’re out on a business lunch, the casual atmosphere can meet your needs. Come in at night for a different vibe that caters to a crowd that enjoys a laid back lounge without having to dress up.
Milwaukee Ale House
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233 N. WATER ST. (414) 226-2337
Give this a try!
WE DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THAT YOU
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EDITOR’S PICK
RUNNER UPS
With fair prices, a daily happy hour featuring great deals, an award-winning Bloody Mary and ample seating – including lively street side seating under the black awning in summertime – make The Wicked Hop a great place to drink in Milwaukee. And the food’s good, too, but that’s another survey.
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The Irish Pub 124 N. WATER ST. (414) 225-9400
Hinterland
222 E. ERIE ST., (414) 727-9300
This gastropub on Erie has a classy presence with high back chairs in a trendy atmosphere. But don’t let the high class fool you, they have fantastic happy hour specials and their food is amazing. Try an award winning Hinterland homebrew and go on Mondays to check out their $5 bowls of Pho.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE AND MORE WINNERS, VISIT WWW.ONMILWAUKEE.COM/BARS
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MILWAUKEE’S BEST
BAR ON/NEAR WATER STREET BEST -OF- #
MKE
1
Safe House
OnMilwaukee
779 N. FRONT ST., (414) 271-2007 AUTHORED BY:
Staff Writers
It was a close race this year, but the Safe House has stolen Water Street’s top bar cred from longstanding champ Trinity Three Irish Pubs. This not-so-secret Milwaukee watering hole has been serving cold beer, strong mixers and clandestine concoctions like the famous Spy’s Demise in its tucked-away corner off Front Street for generations. Situated just off Water Street, the Safe House has welcomed friendly agents from all corners of the world, including a number of famous faces – many of whom graciously left celebrity mementos.
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Trinity Three Irish Pubs
2
125 E. JUNEAU AVE. (414) 278-7033
Give this a try!
WE DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THAT YOU
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EDITOR’S PICK
RUNNER UPS
Trinity put up a good fight, but OnMilwaukee.com readers clearly love an undercover underdog. If you think this will loosen the lips of the “International Exports, Ltd.” staff, though – nice try.
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Rumpus Room 1030 N. WATER ST. (414) 292-0100
Rumpus Room
1030 N. WATER ST., (414) 292-0100
With its marquee Downtown location and owners this new Bartolotta entry doesn’t disappoint. Its 24 taps are “hotly debated” and change often. And they are only a portion of the nearly 150 beers that grace the menu. Add a sea of spirits, including nearly 90 whiskeys and Rumpus Room has more than enough to make any gastropub goer’s glass happy. Add executive chef Andrew Ruiz and general manager and Milwaukee mainstay Omar Andrietsch to the mix and you have a newcomer pick that’s more than worthy.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE AND MORE WINNERS, VISIT WWW.ONMILWAUKEE.COM/BARS
MILWAUKEE’S BEST
BAR IN RIVERWEST BEST -OF- #
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MKE
Foundation Tiki Bar
OnMilwaukee
2718 N. BREMEN ST., (414) 374-2587 AUTHORED BY:
Staff Writers
For the first time ever, OnMilwaukee.com picked Foundation as the best Riverwest bar. Originally, Foundation was a skater-themed bar with an extremely popular “Tiki Tuesday” night, and in 2004, the decor changed to reflect more of the tiki vibe. Tiki drinks are available any night of the week including the famous Mai-Tai along with the Bora Bora Headhunter, Blue Hawaiian, Cuba Viva, Curse of Ku, El Diablo, Dark and Stormy, Floridita Daiquiri, Lemon Grass Shack and more.
Nessun Dorma
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2778 N. WEIL ST. (414) 264-8466
Give this a try!
WE DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THAT YOU
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EDITOR’S PICK
RUNNER UPS
Foundation goes beyond drinks served in a ceramic Easter Island head, offering a good selection of beer or stiff and affordable cocktails.
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Mad Planet 533 E. CENTER ST. (414) 263-4555
Foundation
2718 N. BREMEN ST., (414) 374-2587
The OnMilwaukee.com editors agree, when it’s time to drink in Riverwest, Foundation’s the place to go. Not much can top a night of tiki drinks, but Riverwest’s second and third runners-up, Nessun Dorma and Mad Planet, certainly more than satisfy. Nessun Dorma serves up an impressive selection of wine and beer, Mad Planet couples their libations with an almost neverending dance party, and both do Riverwest’s bar scene proud.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE AND MORE WINNERS, VISIT WWW.ONMILWAUKEE.COM/BARS
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MILWAUKEE’S BEST
BAR ON/NEAR NORTH AVENUE BEST -OF- #
MKE
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The Hotel Foster
OnMilwaukee
2028 E. NORTH AVE., (414) 988-4758 AUTHORED BY:
Staff Writers
Our readers picked The Hotel Foster as the best East Side/UWM bar for 2012. You also said it has the best decor and is the best new bar in Milwaukee. The Hotel Foster is located in the space that once housed Live on North, Lava Bar and Grill, The Globe and The Boardwalk, but the latest reinvention of the space is the most stunning to date. The pre-Prohibition decor features antique furniture, chandeliers and stained glass. In addition to serving wine, beer and cocktails, The Hotel Foster – which does NOT rent rooms, folks – dishes up live music, too. Perhaps because it is in our own neighborhood and literally across the street from our offices, Von Trier gets our staff’s nod because of the eclectic beer selection and wonderful outdoor patio in the summertime.
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Hooligan’s
2
2017 E. NORTH AVE. (414) 273-5230
Give this a try!
WE DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THAT YOU
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EDITOR’S PICK
RUNNER UPS
Of course our apologies go out to our other neighbors Replay, Vitucci’s, Cans, BBC and Hooligan’s. Don’t worry. We still love you, too.
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Von Trier
2235 N. FARWELL AVE. (414) 272-1775
Von Trier
2235 N. FARWELL AVE., (414) 272-1775
This bar has THE best beer garden patio on the East Side, hands down. When you walk into Von Trier you feel like you’ve walked into another country. It may not be the most hopping place on a Saturday night on North Ave, but it’s perfect for a relaxed seat where you can hear each other talk and still be in the middle of all the nightlife. The patio takes you off the busy street & into a walled garden that’s great for summer nights after a movie or dinner.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE AND MORE WINNERS, VISIT WWW.ONMILWAUKEE.COM/BARS
MILWAUKEE’S BEST
BAR ON/NEAR MILWAUKEE STREET/CATHEDRAL SQUARE
BEST -OF- #
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MKE
Flannery’s
OnMilwaukee
425 E. WELLS ST., (414) 278-8586 AUTHORED BY:
Staff Writers
There’s a different vibe on the Milwaukee Street. While Water Street draws the “younger” drinking crowd and Old World 3rd Street attracts a lot of Bradley Center fans and theater-goers, Milwaukee Street and the area around Cathedral Square have emerged as another option for thirsty Milwaukeeans. For OnMilwaukee.com readers, Flannery’s is the top spot in this upscale district, coming out ahead with nearly one-fifth of the votes.
Whiskey Bar
2
788 N. JACKSON ST. (414) 312-8566
Give this a try!
WE DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THAT YOU
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EDITOR’S PICK
RUNNER UPS
Flannery’s is much more than just another bar with an Irish name. It’s comfortable – and big – enough for people of all ages and interests to gather. Plus, if you’ve never rolled a round of bar dice with Marty, one of the city’s legendary barkeeps ... well, you just haven’t lived.
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Bad Genie Rock Lounge 789 N. JEFFERSON ST. (414) 810-1670
The Belmont Tavern
784 N. JEFFERSON ST., (414) 988-6160
Mike Vitucci knows Milwaukee nightlife, and has followed up his 2009 opening of Whiskey Bar with the contemporary, stylish Belmont Tavern. Vitucci also owns Caffrey’s and Murphy’s on Marquette’s campus, but Belmont Tavern is pure Downtown with its open air, classic art deco style and 10-foot doors that fully open to the street. Belmont Tavern is already a perfect fit for the East Town neighborhood, and its entertaining, upbeat feel is here to stay.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE AND MORE WINNERS, VISIT WWW.ONMILWAUKEE.COM/BARS
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MILWAUKEE’S BEST
BAR IN BAY VIEW BEST -OF- #
MKE
1
Sugar Maple
OnMilwaukee
441 E. LINCOLN AVE., (414) 481-2393 AUTHORED BY:
Staff Writers
For the first time in its existence, Sugar Maple, 441 E. Lincoln Ave., took our readers’ pick for best bar in Bay View, narrowly beating out the Horny Hideaway. And Sugar Maple is serious about beer. With 60 American craft beers on tap, a back room for music and a relaxed, lounge-y feel up front next to its long, slinky bar, Bruno Johnson’s sophomore effort is a stylistic nightlife upgrade to the neighborhood (this spot once housed a Sikh temple).
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Horny Hideaway
2
2011 S. 1ST ST. (414) 482-4628
Give this a try!
WE DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THAT YOU
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EDITOR’S PICK
RUNNER UPS
Prices are higher than most bars in Milwaukee, but remember, this is much better beer than you’ll find at your corner tap. Get there early, however, and you’ll be rewarded: Sugar Maple does $1 off all drafts, Monday through Friday from 4 to 8 p.m.
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Palomino
2491 S. SUPERIOR ST. (414) 747-1007
Palomino
2491 S. SUPERIOR ST., (414) 747-1007
A staple in the Bay View community, the Palomino serves not only the trendiest brunch in the area but great drinks as well. The menu isn’t fancy, but it is downright good. Try the Velvet Elvis, a peanut butter, banana and bacon sandwich. Especially after a night of drinking, the Palomino’s tots can get you through anything. The beer is affordable, the location is perfect, the patio is always packed and it’s a must on your birthday: free drafts or rails ALL night long for the birthday kid.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE AND MORE WINNERS, VISIT WWW.ONMILWAUKEE.COM/BARS
MILWAUKEE’S BEST
BAR IN DOWNTOWN BEST -OF- #
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MKE
Old German Beer Hall
OnMilwaukee
1009 N. OLD WORLD 3RD ST., (414) 226-2728 AUTHORED BY:
Staff Writers
Once again, OnMilwaukee.com readers picked the Old German Beer Hall as their favorite Downtown bar by a landslide. Restaurateur Hans Weissgerber III of the Weissgerber Group opened the Bavarian bar and eatery at the end of 2005. The Old German Beer Hall seats about 100 and features the beers of the Hofbrauhaus in Munich, along with lagers, darks and weisses and seasonal offerings like Maibock, HB Sommer and Oktoberfest. The bar also serves the Weissgerber family’s house amber and Miller High Life and Miller Lite in bottles.
Mo’s Irish Pub
2
142 W. WISCONSIN AVE. (414) 272-0721
Give this a try!
WE DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THAT YOU
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EDITOR’S PICK
RUNNER UPS
Beers are served in liter, one-third liter or half-liter glasses. The beer hall’s traditional Bavarian menu includes large Bavarian pretzels, bratwurst, knackwurst, smoked pork chops, carved corned beef sandwiches, schnitzel (as a special only) and three-brat chili.
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Swingin’ Door Exchange 219 E. MICHIGAN ST. (414) 276-8150
Fire on Water
518 N. WATER ST., (414) 291-4411
Located on Water Street a little further south than the main drag of bars, Fire on Water boasts great drink specials and weekly live music on Fridays and Saturdays. They serve some standard bar fare with flatbread pizzas on the menu, but come for the atmosphere, the cheap drinks and listen to some tunes.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE AND MORE WINNERS, VISIT WWW.ONMILWAUKEE.COM/BARS
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MILWAUKEE’S BEST
LGBT BAR BEST -OF- #
MKE
1
La Cage
OnMilwaukee
801 S. 2ND ST., (414) 383-8330 AUTHORED BY:
Staff Writers
Once again, OnMilwaukee.com readers picked La Cage as the city’s best LGBT bar. Walker’s Pint in the Walker’s Point neighborhood came in second. La Cage is Milwaukee’s oldest LGBT dance club, with two dance floors, four bars, mega video screens, drag shows, theme nights and new and retro dance songs cranking all night long. The bar is a hot spot for many in Milwaukee and is a popular destination for bachelorette parties (something that may or may not have to do with the ceiling-mounted dancing cage open to any aspiring go-go in training).
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Walker’s Pint
2
818 S. 2ND ST. (414) 643-7468
Give this a try!
WE DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THAT YOU
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EDITOR’S PICK
RUNNER UPS
Gay, straight or undefined, this club is a fun place, to drink, socialize and burn off steam.
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Hamburger Mary’s 2130 S. KINNICKINNIC AVE. (414) 988-9324
Walker’s Pint
818 S. 2ND ST., (414) 643-7468
The Pint is probably Milwaukee’s best-known lesbian bar, but straight guys and gals won’t miss out in the fun (though they might feel a little ignored). Shenanigans are the norm at this great old pub with the amazing slogan, “Lock up your daughters!” at 818 S. 2nd St. in, you guessed it, Walker’s Point.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE AND MORE WINNERS, VISIT WWW.ONMILWAUKEE.COM/BARS
MILWAUKEE’S BEST
SCENIC VIEW BEST -OF- #
1
MKE
Blu
OnMilwaukee
424 E. WISCONSIN AVE., (414) 298-3196 AUTHORED BY:
Staff Writers
When last year Blu, atop the The Pfister Hotel, was named bar with the best view in town, it had unseated perennial favorite Roots. This time around, you, the readers of OnMilwaukee.com, have given Blu a repeat victory. We agree that Blu is pretty awesome. If the great martinis, comfy chairs, live jazz and free cashews aren’t good enough on their own – and they are – Blu offers a panoramic view of the eastern end of Downtown and out toward Lake Michigan and the southeast.
Roots
2
1818 HUBBARD ST. (414) 374-8480
Give this a try!
WE DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THAT YOU
#
EDITOR’S PICK
RUNNER UPS
Roughly half of you also know that the ladies’ room at Blu offers a similarly amazing view to the west.
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Barnacle Bud’s 1955 S. HILBERT ST. (414) 481-9974
106Seeboth
106 W. SEEBOTH ST., (414) 224-7724
It opened last summer, and 106seeboth can’t be missed with its sleek, bright and shiny Milwaukee River profile, high end cocktails, boutique wines, microbeers and smashing small plate food made from fresh, local ingredients called “barbites.” Perfect for a summer evening out, or a warm Sunday in with bottomless mimosas, 106seeboth dovetails nicely too with its neighbor Screaming Tuna. Sushi there and drinks at 106seethbooth make for one great evening in Milwaukee’s ever evolving Fifth Ward.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE AND MORE WINNERS, VISIT WWW.ONMILWAUKEE.COM/BARS
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MILWAUKEE’S BEST
BAR IN A RESTAURANT BEST -OF- #
MKE
1
Milwaukee Ale House
OnMilwaukee
223 N. WATER ST., (414) 226-2337 AUTHORED BY:
Staff Writers
There are plenty of eateries in town whose bars are just as fun to hang out at as they are for dining. With more and more restaurants paying just as much attention to their beer and cocktail lists as their food menus, you don’t have to be hungry to choose a restaurant bar for the night’s destination.
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Bel Air Cantina
2
1935 N. WATER ST. (414) 226-2245
Give this a try!
WE DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THAT YOU
#
EDITOR’S PICK
RUNNER UPS
With its regular live music performances, a collection of delicious micro-brews made on the spot, an incredible patio and a surprisingly warm and friendly atmosphere for its size, it’s no surprise OnMilwaukee. com readers chose the Milwaukee Ale House, 233 N. Water St., as 2012’s best bar in a restaurant.
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Bar Lulu
2265 S. HOWELL AVE. (414) 294-5858
Bar Lulu
2265 S. HOWELL AVE., (414) 294-5858
One of the most well established restaurants in Bay View, Lulu’s is a favorite for the food & their nightlife. The menu boasts well crafted pitas & sandwiches, but let’s be honest, we all go in for that Asian slaw or Lulu’s homemade chips with blue cheese! Lulu’s bar is as large as its seating area and on the weekends the stage hosts bands and music acts of all genres.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE AND MORE WINNERS, VISIT WWW.ONMILWAUKEE.COM/BARS
MILWAUKEE’S BEST
ECLECTIC DRINK MENU BEST -OF- #
1
MKE
Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge
OnMilwaukee
1579 S. 9TH ST., (414) 383-2620 AUTHORED BY:
Staff Writers
We find more than a little irony in the fact that Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge, 1579 S. 9th St., took the readers’ choice for most eclectic drink menu. It’s not that we, too, don’t love Bryant’s – in fact, it’s one of our favorite bars in Milwaukee. But technically speaking, Bryant’s doesn’t even have a menu. Instead, you pick your drink based on flavor or color. What that means is the Bryant’s “menu” is gigantic, only limited by what’s in the creative minds of its old-school bartenders (technically, its website lists that number at 450 drinks).
At Random
2
2501 S. DELAWARE AVE. (414) 481-8030
Give this a try!
WE DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THAT YOU
#
EDITOR’S PICK
RUNNER UPS
Of course, even without a physical menu, there are some Bryant’s classic cocktails that must be tried, drinks like the über-potent Brainbuster, the flaming Black Magic or the aphrodisiacal DeFrongue. We, for what it matters, have never tasted a drink at Bryant’s that we didn’t love.
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Distil
722 N. MILWAUKEE ST. (414) 220-9411
Distil
722 N. MILWAUKEE ST., (414) 220-9411
This Milwaukee bar is great for networking around town as a trendy hotspot for an after work drink. The bar takes up half the space, which is a long narrow building that’s retained that old cream city brick and is wedged between two other Milwaukee street hot spots. The food menu is small but audacious, and it has a large cocktail menu that serves a mean martini alongside artisan cocktails.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE AND MORE WINNERS, VISIT WWW.ONMILWAUKEE.COM/BARS
23
BOMB SHELTER
SABBATIC 700 S 2ND ST
TEN BELLS
1517 S 2ND ST
3:30PM-6:30PM
4-7PM
MON-FRI 5-9PM
---
1/2 PRICED OYSTERS, SHRIMP & FRIED GREEN TOMATOES, $1 OFF DRINKS
$1 OFF TAPS & BOTTLES & $1 OLD STYLES
MON/WED: 2-4-1 MILLERCOORS & LEINE’S, TUES/THURS: 2-4-1 RAILS & TAPS, FRI: FREE FOOD
1/2 OFF TAPS, RAILS, DOMESTICS
LADIES NIGHT! $4 MAXIE MOJITOS
$2 PABST BOTTLES
$1 RETRO BEERS, $5 SCHLITZ + SHOT OF THE DAY
$5 TALL TULLAMORE DEW COCKTAILS
$3 PBR TALLBOYS & $5 TALL SMIRNOFF COCKTAILS
CHICKEN FRIED TUESDAYS: 1/2 OFF WINGS, $2 PBR, DINNER SPECIALS
$3 CLASSIC COCKTAILS
$2 SCHLITZ & PABST TALL BOYS, $2 RAILS, $3 IMPORTS, $2 POWERS SHOTS, $5 MOSCOW MULES
$5 TALL TULLAMORE DEW COCKTAILS
$5 TALL TULLAMORE DEW COCKTAILS
$10 OFF ANY BOTTLE OF WINE!
$1 OFF TAPS
$3 MICRO TAPS, BEER TASTINGS EVERY WED. CHECK THE SCHEDULE ONLINE!
ROTATING SPECIALS
$2 DOMESTICS
RAC N MAC THURSDAY: SPECIALTY MAC N CHEESES WEEKLY! MICKEY’S GRENADES $2
1/2 PRICE BOTTLES OF WINE
$5 SCHLITZ TAP, KEEP THE GLASS WITH $2 REFILLS!
$5 PBR TALLBOY & A SHOT OF POWERS COMBO
FEATURING THE LEGENDARY MALTED MILKBALL MARTINI AND THE FABLED SOHO BOMBS!
HAPPY HOUR IS 3-8PM, FREE HOT FOOD, $4 OLD FASHION’S 12 OZ TUB, W/ ROCK CANDY SWIZZLE
ROTATING GUEST BARTENDERS, DJS, AND SPECIALS
$5 MADE-TO-ORDER OLD FASHIONS, MOJITOS AND MANHATTANS!
$6 MILWAUKEE PITCHERS, $6 PIZZAS, $10 SHOTSKI SHOTS
TRAINWRECK SATURDAY! FEATURING DJ PAUL H OF THE ENABLERS!
SPEAK-EAZY: OLD SCHOOL HIP-HOP AND CLASSIC COCKTAILS
$2.5 BLATZ TAP W/HARD BOILED EGG, $4 BLOODY MARY’S, $6 MKE PITCHERS
$2 HIGH LIFE AND SMIRNOFF CHERRY BOMBS
LADIES NIGHT: $1 OFF EVERYTHING!
MAXIE’S
6732 W FAIRVIEW AVE
4-6PM
$1 KIDS MEALS
24
COMET CAFE
1947 N FARWELL AVE
$2.50 FLOYD’S TAPS + FREE BACON WITH ANY PURCHASE!
703 S 2ND ST
PLEASE CHECK WITH YOUR BARTENDER TO ENSURE SPECIALS ARE CORRECT AND VALID. SPECIALS SUBJECT TO CHANGE BASED ON DATE OF PRINTING AND BAR’S DISCRETION.
UP AND UNDER
MONKEY BAR
1716 N ARLINGTON PL
4-7PM
---
THURS/FRI/SAT 3-9PM
4-6PM
1/2 OFF RAIL, TAPS, AND GLASSES OF WINE
EVERYTHING 2-4-1
$5 WINES, $5 APPS, 5 DAYS OF THE WEEK!
$1 MYSTERY BEERS
OPEN MIC NIGHT
$2 PABST SILOS, SKATE VIDEOS SPONSORED BY SKY HIGH SKATE SHOP AND RUSH MOR RECORDS
MUSSEL MONDAY! 1 LB OF MUSSELS FOR JUST $7! PREPARED THREE DIFFERENT WAYS, ALL NIGHT LONG.
SIN HALF OFF SELECT TOP SHELF & MICROBREWS. GUEST DJ
$2 POINT TAPS, $3 POWERS WHISKEY, $2 MILLER LITE TAPS, $2 JAGERS
709 NORTH ARLINGTON
1216 E BRADY
$1 MYSTERY BEERS RETRO NIGHT: $2 PBR TALLBOYS
1619 S 1ST ST
BALZAC
$10 PITCHERS OF BOOZE
$3 FOSTER’S BIG CAN, $2 CHERRY BOMBS
$10 PITCHERS OF BOOZE
$2 MILLER LITE TAPS, $2 BARCADI BOMBS
$10 PITCHERS OF BOOZE
$5 LITER MUGS. NEW BEER EACH WEEK!
$3 MOON MAN, $2 SOUTHERN COMFORT
$5 LITER MUGS. NEW BEER EACH WEEK!
$3 RED STRIPE BEER, $2 SOUTHERN COMFORT
LIVE BANDS IN THE BACK, DJ DEVAST8 IN THE FRONT FREE BOTTLES OF CHAMPAGNE FOR EVERYONE WITH A BIRTHDAY THAT WEEK.. LIVE BANDS IN THE BACK, DJ DEVAST8 IN THE FRONT FREE BOTTLES OF CHAMPAGNE FOR EVERYONE WITH A BIRTHDAY THAT WEEK..
KARAOKE & $1 MYSTERY BEERS
$1 PBR, $3 JAMESON WHISKEY
GUEST BARTENDER NIGHTS. $2 BOTTLES, $3 BOMBS & $4 PINTS, KARAOKE 10PM IN THE ANNEX
HALF BOTTLES ARE HALF PRICE.
1/2 OFF BOTTLES OF WINE (UNDER $60)
VIA ON DOWNER 2625 N DOWNER AVE
Is your last name Gillette? Because you’re the best a man can get.
Excuse me; I think you owe me a drink. Because when I saw you from across the room I dropped mine.
Do you believe in love at first sight or should I walk past again?
Can I have your phone number? I seem to have lost mine.
Can I buy you a drink or do you just want the money?
Hey, what’s up? Guess what? It’s your lucky day. Out of everyone here, I picked you to talk to.
If you were a new hamburger at McDonald’s, you would be McGorgeous.
Want to make some magic? I swear I’m free of Hogwarts.
WARNING: AVOID USING AT ALL COST! •••••••••••••••••
•••••••••••••••••
BAD PICK-UP LINES
HI HAT GARAGE
THE LANDMARK BAR 2220 N FARWELL AVE
3-6PM
---
1/2 PRICE BOTTLES OF WINE AND FREE, LOCAL, LIVE MUSIC AT 7:30
$2 LONG ISLANDS, $3 BACARDI MIXERS & BOMBS
$4 DOUBLE-RAIL MIXERS IN DEFEAT THE WHEAT - NO A PINT, $2 PINTS & 12OZ UPCHARGE ON ANY GLUTENFREE MENU ITEM, PLUS 2-4-1 BOTTLES OF BEER, $3 2 FOR 1 RAIL MIXERS. - $3 CAPTAIN BOTTLES OF LAKEFRONT’S MORGAN MIXERS NEW GRIST BEER WALKER REBATE - 20% OFF YOUR BILL IF YOU RIDE YOUR MINI PITCHERS 32OZ - $6 BIKE, TAKE THE BUS OR WALK MICRO & IMPORTS - $4 TO VIA. ALSO, $5 REGULAR DOMESTICS AND SPECIALTY MARTINIS
NITE OWL SPECIALS AFTER 10 PM
$2 DOMESTIC/PREMIUM PINTS, $2.5 MICRO/IMPORT PINTS, $2.5 JAGER SHOTS, 3.50 JAGER BOMBS
BRUNCH WITH 2-4-1 BLOODIES AND MIMOSAS + NITE OWL SPECIALS AFTER 10 PM
$3 3 OLIVES VODKA SHOTS/MIXERS, $4 3 OLIVES BOMBS
BRUNCH WITH 2-4-1 BLOODIES AND MIMOSAS + NITE OWL SPECIALS AFTER 10 PM
$3 STOLI FLAVORS VODKA SHOTS/MIXERS, $4 STOLI FLAVORS BOMBS
BRUNCH WITH 2-4-1 BLOODIES AND MIMOSAS + NITE OWL SPECIALS AFTER 10 PM
BLOODY MARY’S $3.00 (RAIL) - SMIRNOFF $3.50
PLEASE CHECK WITH YOUR BARTENDER TO ENSURE SPECIALS ARE CORRECT AND VALID. SPECIALS SUBJECT TO CHANGE BASED ON DATE OF PRINTING AND BAR’S DISCRETION.
25
2017 EAST NORTH AVE
BREMEN CAFE
BLACKBIRD BAR
901 E. CLARKE
3007 S KINNICKINNIC AVE
2335 S KINNIKINNIC AVE
1932 E KENILWORTH
4-6:30PM M-F
11AM-9PM
4-8 PM
4-7 PM MON- FRI
4PM-9PM
1/2 PRICED APPS, $2 OFF ALL COCKTAILS, & $1 OFF DRAFT & BOTTLED BEER
$1 OFF BEER & MIXED DRINKS
$2 TAPS OF SCHLITZ & R-WEST STEIN, $3 MICOS, 2-4-1 RAILS
$3 TALL RAIL COCKTAILS, $2 (MACRO) DOMESTIC BOTTLES
BUY ONE, GET ONE--TAPS, RAILS & BOMBS!
10PM-CLOSE: $3 IMPORTS, $2 DOMESTIC BOTTLES, $1 DOMESTIC CANS
LADIES NIGHT. FIRST THREE RAIL DRINKS, SHOTS OR BEERS ONLY $1!!! FROM 9PM-1AM
$2 TAPS OF STEINS, $3 LAKEFRONT BOT., $4 REHORST
$3 MICRO DRAFTS, $2 PBR, $2 SHOTS OF POWERS/JAGER/ MOHAWK GINGER
$2 TALL BOYS, $3 SHOTS OF SULLIVAN’S IRISH WHISKEY
ANY THREE OLIVE COCKTAIL: $4.50
2 FOR 1 BEER, RAILS AND SHOTS
FREE TACO NIGHT $3 MARGARITAS, 2-4-1 RAILS & TAPS
LIVE MUSIC JAZZ SESSION: ALL WI CRAFT BEERS $3
$2 MACRO DOMESTIC BOTTLES, $5 TALL STOLI DRINKS
REVERSE HAPPY HOUR: $1 OFF BEER, $2 OFF DRINKS
MID-MOUNTAIN MUSIC WEEK – BLUE GRASS MUSIC, NO COVER
$3 MICROS
LADIES NIGHT! $3 MICRO DRAFTS, $5 ALL WINE
$2 TAPS, $3 JAMESON SHOTS
BOOT NIGHT 80OZ: MILLER LITE, HIGH LIFE: $12
OPEN MIC MUSIC, 9PM SIGN UP
$4 OL’ SCHOOL DRINKS, $3 MARGARITAS & MICROS
$6 TALL REHORST DRINKS, $3 MILLER, PABST, TECATE & SELECT DRAFTS
$2 PBR TAPS, $5 TALL ABSOLUT/CAPTAIN MORGAN DRINKS
TALL FOR SMALL, ALL COCKTAILS SERVED TALL FOR THE PRICE OF SHORT DRIN. ALL BOMBS $4.50
LOCAL AND NATIONAL LIVE MUSIC ACTS
TALL FOR SMALL, COCKTAILS SERVED FOR THE PRICE OF SHORT DRINKS. ALL BOMBS $4.50
LOCAL AND NATIONAL LIVE MUSIC ACTS
PERSONAL PITCHER 32OZ: DOMESTIC $5, MICROS $6, IMPORTS $7
CO-OP NIGHT! $1 OFF DRINKS FROM 9PM-1AM FOR ALL RIVERWEST CO-OP VOLUNTEERS
HOOLIGAN’S
26
TONIC
YIELD
9PM TO CLOSE: $3 TAP OF THE NIGHT, $3 SHOT OF THE NIGHT
$5 BLOODY MARY’S
$6 TALL REHORST DRINKS, $3 SELECT MICRO DRAFTS 5-9PM
9PM TO CLOSE: $3 TAP OF THE NIGHT, $3 SHOT OF THE NIGHT
SUNDAY FUNDAY! $3 BLOODIES AND MIMOSAS OPEN-7PM, LATE NIGHT COCKTAIL SPECIALS
9AM-3PM: BUILD YOUR OWN BLOODY MARY BAR 9PM- CLOSE: $1 OFF ALL BOTTLES $5 TALL KETEL/ BACARDI DRINKS
PLEASE CHECK WITH YOUR BARTENDER TO ENSURE SPECIALS ARE CORRECT AND VALID. SPECIALS SUBJECT TO CHANGE BASED ON DATE OF PRINTING AND BAR’S DISCRETION.
134 E. JUNEAU AVE
7342 W STATE ST. TOSA
---
M-F 2-6PM, WED 2-8PM
$1 MUGS OF MILLER, $2 RAILS THE BANGARANG-SERVICE INDUSTRY NIGHT: 1/2 PRICE EVERYTHING! DJ E-RICH AND LOCAL GUESTS
TACO NIGHT, FREE CHIPS & SALSA
BROCACH
SPIN
1850 N WATER ST
233 E CHICAGO
3PM-6PM
---
½ OFF ALL TOP SHELF IRISH & SCOTCH WHISKIES, $5 WINE, $3 LAKEFRONT, $6 BEER FLIGHTS, $4.25 20 OZ OF MURPHY’S STOUT $3 VAN GOGH & REHORST MIXERS, $5 MARTINIS, $1.50 MILLER HIGH LIFE, $3 20OZ DOMESTIC DRAUGHTS=LATE NIGHT DRINK SPECIALS
CLUB ANYTHING 807 S. 5TH STREET
Two peanuts walk into a bar. One was a salted.
A magician was driving down the road..then he turned into a drive way.
A mushroom walks into the bar and says to the bartender “Hay , could I get a beer please” The barthened looks at him shacking his head and say “No, we don’t serve food here” The mushroom says “Why not I’m a Fungi!”
A french fry walks into the bar and says to the bartender “Hey , could I get a beer please” The barthened looks at him shacking his head and say “No, we don’t serve food here”
What do you call a sheep with no legs? A cloud
JOKES ARE FUNNIER THE MORE YOU DRINK, SO ORDER ANOTHER ROUND! •••••••••••••••••
•••••••••••••••••
SHORT JOKES
COLONEL HART’S
ROGUES GALLERY
THE IRISH PUB 124 N WATER STREET
N/A OPEN AT 9PM
3PM-9PM
N/A
MILLER PRODUCTS $2, PABST IS ALWAYS $2
50¢ MEATBALLS, $10 PITCHERS OF SPIN BREWS
$1 BURGER
S.I.N. NIGHT: $5 YOU CALL IT MIXERS, $3 STOLI BOMBS, $2 SPIN LIGHT TAPS
“STEVE BEHIND THE BAR ON THE TURNTABLES: $4 KETTLE COCKTAILS, $2 JAMESON SHOTS, $1 PABST AND$.25 WINGS
$2 SLOPPY JOES, $4 SLIDERS
OPEN IRISH MUSIC SESSION
$3 STOLI RED BULL BOMBS, $1 OFF ALL TAPS
1/2 PRICE APPS DURING HAPPY HOUR
TRIVIA!
25¢ TAPS, 50¢ PABST, $3 COVER, LIVE DJS
$5 CRAFT COCKTAILS & $2 DOMESTIC TAPS
35¢ WING NIGHT
LATE NIGHT DRINK SPECIALS
$2 BEER CANS, $3 STOLI RED BULL BOMBS, $1 OFF TAPS
DJ JIMMY CABABA
FISH FRY FRIDAY & 1/2 OFF PIZZA
LATE NIGHT DRINK SPECIALS
DJ E-RICH
1/2 OFF PIZZA, 9-10PM POWER HOUR 1/2 PRICE DRINKS
2-4-1 BLOODIES & MIMOSAS DURING BRUNCH
1/2 OF PIZZA
LIVE HARP WITH MARY ANN MILLER 11 AM - 1 PM & LIVE IRISH MUSIC WITH ATHAS 6-8PM
$3 KAMIKAZIE, $4 JACK DANIELS MIXERS, $4 STOLI MIXERS
LADIES NIGHT- $3 RAIL COCKTAILS, *FOR THE LADIES BOMB SHOT SPECIALS
FALLOUT FRIDAYS, SPECIAL EVENTS INDUSTRIAL/EBM: DANCE ALL NIGHT! OPEN AT 9PM, $3 COVER AFTER 10PM
PLEASE CHECK WITH YOUR BARTENDER TO ENSURE SPECIALS ARE CORRECT AND VALID. SPECIALS SUBJECT TO CHANGE BASED ON DATE OF PRINTING AND BAR’S DISCRETION.
$3.50 PINTS
27
MILWAUKEE’S BEST
BAR NAME BEST -OF- #
MKE
1
My Office
OnMilwaukee
763 N. MILWAUKEE ST., (414) 276-9646 AUTHORED BY:
Staff Writers
What’s in a name? When it comes to bars, a lot. My Office, 763 N. Milwaukee St., doesn’t really fit in with its swankier neighbors, but does just fine as it is, thanks to good service, inexpensive drinks and ... a catchy name. The bar itself has an eclectic crowd because of its location right in the middle of downtown, bringing in suits from the office to construction workers from the street. Either way, the daily grind brings in those thirsty workers that just need to get out of “the office.”
28
Walk Her Inn Drag Her Out
2
900 S. 74TH ST., WEST ALLIS (414) 774-0280
Give this a try!
WE DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THAT YOU
#
EDITOR’S PICK
RUNNER UPS
After all, how many Downtown Milwaukee workers have avoided their spouse’s wrath with the innocent response “I was at my office,” after stopping for a cold one after a long day of work?
#
3
The Horny Hideaway 2011 S. 1ST ST. (414) 482-4628
Doodle Annie’s
3631 S. CLEMENT AVE., (414) 483-1097
We honestly have never been to Doodle Annie’s, 3631 S. Clement Ave. We just picked it because of its awesome name, and we imagine kids coloring with crayons on tablecloths, instead of drinking and shots and affordable beer. The latter is probably closer to the truth.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE AND MORE WINNERS, VISIT WWW.ONMILWAUKEE.COM/BARS
MILWAUKEE’S BEST
HOTEL BAR BEST -OF- #
1
MKE
County Clare
OnMilwaukee
1234 N. ASTOR ST., (414) 272-5273 AUTHORED BY:
Staff Writers
County Clare boasts of pouring the most stout in the state of Wisconsin, which isn’t surprising but some bar patrons of the comfortable pub may not even spare a thought for the other part of County Clare’s business, a hotel with more than two dozen guest suites. But OnMilwaukee.com readers know all about it and made the cozy public house at 1234 N. Astor St. the easy winner as best hotel bar for yet another year.
Blu
2
424 E. WISCONSIN AVE. (414) 298-3196
Give this a try!
WE DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THAT YOU
#
EDITOR’S PICK
RUNNER UPS
The bar and restaurant is definitely an oasis if you’re staying at “The Guesthouse,” where rooms boast a double whirlpool bath.
#
3
Branded
500 W. FLORIDA ST. (888) 543-4766
Envoy
2308 W. WISCONSIN AVE., (414) 345-5015
Inside the Ambassador Hotel, Envoy Lounge is a swanky, yet casual, place to have a drink before an event or going to the theater. And since it’s located inside a hotel, there are shuttle services provided to most downtown events free of charge. Park in the complimentary lot, grab a drink at Envoy, and off you go! Envoy lounge provides a more casual atmosphere opposed to the swanky hotel and fine dining.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE AND MORE WINNERS, VISIT WWW.ONMILWAUKEE.COM/BARS
29
MILWAUKEE’S BEST
FREE SNACKS BEST -OF- #
MKE
1
Comet Cafe
OnMilwaukee
1947 N. FARWELL AVE., (414) 273-7677 AUTHORED BY:
Staff Writers
Passing the time with some friends and a few drinks can make for a fun time, but it won’t do much for you if you’re hungry. Thankfully, many Milwaukee bars have your back, offering up everything from M&Ms and peanuts to crispy bacon to stave off hunger pangs out on the town.
30
AJ Bombers
2
1241 N. WATER ST. (414) 221-9999
Give this a try!
WE DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THAT YOU
#
EDITOR’S PICK
RUNNER UPS
The latter comes courtesy of Comet Cafe, this year’s OnMilwaukee.com readers’ pick for best free bar snacks. Competition was close, but in the end it’s hard to stack up against a basket of salty, bacon-y bliss.
#
3
Paddy’s Pub
2339 N. MURRAY AVE. (414) 223-3496
Blu
424 E. WISCONSIN AVE., (414) 298-3196
Consider Blu’s free cashews one of Milwaukee’s better-kept bar secrets. By request only, Blu-goers can add some salty, savory flavor to their cocktail hour. Yet another perk from the bar that keeps on giving, these freebies only add to the gorgeous, gratis view of the city skyline.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE AND MORE WINNERS, VISIT WWW.ONMILWAUKEE.COM/BARS
MILWAUKEE’S BEST
GAMES AND TRIVIA BEST -OF- #
1
MKE
Landmark Lanes
OnMilwaukee
2220 N. FARWELL AVE., (414) 278-8770 AUTHORED BY:
Staff Writers
The combination of alcohol and games is a match made in bar heaven. Not only do bar games provide plenty of fun for a group out on the town, adding a little liquor to the mix seems to make every pool shot line up perfectly and every dart fly straight (at least for a little while, anyway). It’s no surprise, then, that the East Side’s Landmark Lanes was voted tops this year. As much a bar game playground as a bar, Landmark Lanes boasts 40 arcade and video games, foosball, darts, weekly pool tournaments and a 16-lane bowling alley.
Fanatics
2
185 N. JEFFERSON ST. (414) 220-8336
Give this a try!
WE DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THAT YOU
#
EDITOR’S PICK
RUNNER UPS
Of course, it’s more than easy to get a drink. Landmark’s three bars provide plenty of opportunities to refuel between racking up another round of pool and racking up the high score on Ms. Pacman.
#
3
Bar Louie
1114 N. WATER ST. (414) 847-1492
Fanatics
185 N. JEFFERSON ST., (414) 220-8336
You’re likely to find some friendly competition at Fanatics with all the games you can play while at this sports bar. With the big game on their giant screens, they also have a rec room with air hockey, basketball, bags, pool, darts, shuffleboard-you name it. They host bean bag and dart leagues, trivia on Wednesday nights, and of course some awesome daily drink specials to help you get that competitive edge.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE AND MORE WINNERS, VISIT WWW.ONMILWAUKEE.COM/BARS
31
MILWAUKEE’S BEST
KARAOKE BEST -OF- #
1
MKE
The Up & Under Pub
OnMilwaukee
1216 E. BRADY ST., (414) 276-2677 AUTHORED BY:
Staff Writers
While Milwaukee regretfully (or thankfully, depending on how you look at it) doesn’t have too many bars that offer nightly karaoke, there are several that offer it one a weekly or monthly basis. From “Hotel California” to “New York, New York” and all musical geography in between, OnMilwaukee.com’s readers said the best place to get your “Billie Jean” on and sing some karaoke is The Up & Under Pub at 1216 E. Brady St.
32
Frank’s Power Plant
2
2800 S. KINNICKINNIC AVE. (414) 481-9200
Give this a try!
WE DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THAT YOU
#
EDITOR’S PICK
RUNNER UPS
With free karaoke every Wednesday night from 9:30 p.m. until closing time and drink specials, The Up and Under Pub is a great place to drink your voice good.
#
3
Milwaukee Brat House 1013 N. OLD WORLD 3RD ST. (414) 273-8709
Rocco’s
2860 S. KINNICKINNIC AVE., (414) 483-0677
Inside the basement of the George Washington Bay View Post 180 of the American Legion is Rocco’s, a rec-room-esque bar with a surprisingly good beer selection. The karaoke only makes the pizza and bar food taste better.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE AND MORE WINNERS, VISIT WWW.ONMILWAUKEE.COM/BARS
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ADAM GRIFFIN REPRESENTING:
MONKEY BAR
LINDA KAY
REPRESENTING: WHISKEY
BAR
Q. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MILWAUKEE BAR (OTHER THAN YOUR OWN)?
Q. WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT TOOL BEHIND THE BAR?
A. The Bubbler
A. A killer personality & smile
AARON B
REPRESENTING: BRASS
MONKEY
ABBEY KAGAN
REPRESENTING:CLUB
ANYTHING
Q. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MILWAUKEE BAR (OTHER THAN YOUR OWN)?
Q. HAVE YOU SERVED ANYONE FAMOUS? IF SO, DID THEY TIP WELL?
A. The Bottle
A. Ricktor Ravensbruck from Electric
Hellfire Club and he tipped well!
JOE CONFORTI
REPRESENTING: ROGUES
GALLERY
KYM HAYES
REPRESENTING: HOTEL
FOSTER
Q. WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT TOOL BEHIND THE BAR?
Q. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MILWAUKEE BAR OTHER THAN YOUR OWN?
A. Patience
A. Foundation
AMY BLADOW REPRESENTING: BARNONE
JIMMY FINDLAY REPRESENTING: SPIN
Q. WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT TOOL BEHIND THE BAR?
Q. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MILWAUKEE BAR (OTHER THAN YOUR OWN)?
A. Probably a bottle of Powers, we
A. Stubby’s
drink a lot of whiskey!
CORINNE LEACH REPRESENTING: HORNY
GOAT
Q. WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT TOOL BEHIND THE BAR?
A. The bartender of course! We can
make or break your experience, so don’t be rude and tip nicely!
GRAHAM KESSEL REPRESENTING: THE
HARP
Q. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MILWAUKEE BRUNCH SPOT?
A. Loaded Slate
THE STANDARD 1754 N Franklin Pl
Written by: Molly Snyder Steve Gilbertson has a very specific vision for The Standard, the corner bar that he co-owns with Jay Stamates. “I want it to be like walking into a bar in the ‘50s that hasn’t been redone, just added to, since the ‘20s,” says Gilbertson. The building was built in 1888 and has always housed a bar, making The Standard one of the city’s oldest. Gilbertson has an invoice from 1906 for two half-barrels of Pabst delivered to the bar in 1906 for $6.50. More than 100 years later, the space definitely maintains a classic look and feel, from the dark wood bar to the stained glass windows to the sink outside the restroom. Plus, black-and-white photos on the walls, Monopoly money decoratively scattered under glass atop one of the tables, a steady stream of big band swing music and murals of Bettie Page, James Dean, Louise Brooks and a young Marlo Brando in the restrooms add to the vintage theme.
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However, The Standard is not gimmicky. It’s comfortable and cozy, illuminated at night by amber and candle light. Large Pabst and Standard Oil murals, painted by local artist Holly Messer, are a stand-out feature. The Standard has 100 different beers available in cans and bottles. Soon, it will have six to eight taps, too. Gilbertson, a former home brewer, says he’s always been a “geek about beer.” He believes beer drinkers need a large selection to choose from because drinking beer should be about what you’re in the mood for, not an opportunity to drink the same beer night after night. The Standard will soon offer pizza, chicken fingers and other classic bar fare. Keeping prices low is important to Gilbertson. The Standard offers $2.50 shots of Powers and has nightly specials along with a daily happy hour with half-off domestics and rails. “We’re also offering an alternative to Brady Street,” says Gilbertson. “There’s a mellow vibe in here even when it’s full.”
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • READ MORE ABOUT THE STANDARD AT WWW.ONMILWAUKEE.COM • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Great Beer deserves Great Food Unique Pub Fare 150 Draft, Domestic, Craft & Rare Brews A Rumpus Good Time! 1030 N. Water St. | Milwaukee www.RumpusRoomMke.com
Malibu Black & Coke
HONEY HIGHBALL
GRÄPEVINE collins
Sparkling OR-G
• 1 oz. Malibu Black
• 1.5 oz Red Stag Honey
• 1.5 parts ABSOLUT GRÄPEVINE
• 1.5 oz Or-G
Fill with Cola.
• Tea
• 1 part Simple Syrup
• .5oz Lemon juice
The Summer Bubbler
• Ginger Ale
• 3/4 part fresh Lemon Juice
• Dash of bitters (optional)
Top with soda & serve in a Collins glass. Garnish with a lemon wheel.
• 1oz Sparkling wine (Champagne)
• 1 oz. Malibu Black • 2 oz. of Pineapple Juice Fill with Mamertino white wine (or a sparkling wine).
Hurricane Malibu • 1 oz. Malibu Black • 1/2 oz. Malibu Pineapple • 1 oz. OJ • 1 oz. Pineapple Juice • 1/2 oz. Grenadine
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Build over ice in a highball glass. Garnish with a lemon wedge.
BAKED RED APPLE • 1.5 part Red Stag Spiced • Fresh Pressed Apple Juice Build over ice or serve hot. Garnish with a lemon wedge.
Served in Champagne Flute with lemon rind garnish.
GRÄPEVINE baybreeze
Side Affair
1.5 parts ABSOLUT GRÄPEVINE
• .5 oz Simple Syrup
2 parts Cranberry Juice
• 1 oz Lemon Juice
2 parts Pineapple
• 1.5 oz OR-G
Juice Serve in a Collins glass and garnish with a lime wedge.
• 1.5 oz Cognac
Do you have leftover wine, or just too little to make a glass? Try freezing it in an ice cube tray. You can add wine cubes to almost anything. Use it to chill new wine, or for an added punch in your next mixed cocktail. They are even great to cook with, just pop a few in your next sauce and see what happens!
Shaken and poured over ice.
AJ BOMBERS
COMET CAFE
HORNY GOAT HIDEAWAY
1241 N WATER 414.221.9999
1947 N FARWELL 414.273.7677
2011 S 1ST 414.482.4628
ALCHEMIST THEATER
CONEJITO’S PLACE
HOTCH-A-DO
Performance Theater & Lounge
539 W VIRGINIA 414.278.9106
1813 E KENILWORTH 414.727.2122
ART BAR
Eatery & Tavern
Burger Bar
2995 S CLEMENT 414.431.1014 Local Bar
722 E BURLEIGH 414.372.7880 AT RANDOM
Classic Cocktail Lounge
2501 S DELAWARE 414.481.8030
BEN’S CYCLE
1018 W LINCOLN 414.384.2274
BLACKBIRD BAR
Mexican Food
THE EATERY
2014 N FARWELL 414.220.1110
ERIK OF NORWAY
Brewery & Pub
Cafe & Bar
HOT POP
Art & Design Boutique/Gallery
213 N BROADWAY 414.273.1301
IAN’S PIZZA
Salon and Spa
Pizzeria with a wist
726 N MILWAUKEE 414.241.5111
2035 E NORTH AVE 414.727.9200
THE FOUNDATION
LA MERENDA
2718 N BREMEN 414.374.2587
125 E NATIONAL 414.389.0125
Tiki Bar
GINGER
Tapas Bar
LUCI
An Affordable Woman’s Boutique
3007 S KINNICKINNIC 414.486.1344
Tapas Bar
235 S 2ND 414.220.9420
532 N WATER 414.226.0114
BRYANT’S
GREAT LAKES DISTILLERY
MAXIE’S SOUTHERN COMFORT
616 W VIRGINIA 414.431.8683
6732 W FAIRVIEW 414.292.3969
Cocktail Lounge
Classic Cocktail Lounge
1579 S 9TH 414.383.2620
SWINGIN’ DOOR EXCHANGE Saloon & Eatery
219 E MICHIGAN 414.276.8150
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Slow Food
Local Distillery
THE HAMILTON Bar & Lounge
823 E HAMILTON 414.223.1020
Southern Comfort Food
MILWAUKEE SKY DIVE
W1341 HWY L EAST TROY, WI 53120 262.642.9494
MONKEY BAR
THIS IS IT
Neighborhood Bar
LGBT Cocktail Lounge
NESSUN DORMA
THE SKYLIGHT OPERA THEATER
THE TOOL SHED
1619 S 1ST 414.384.4663
Italian Food & Wine
2778 N WEIL 414.264.8466
NEXT ACT THEATER Performance Theater
342 N WATER 414.278.0765
NOMAD WORLD PUB Local Bar
1401 E BRADY 414.224.8111 PALOMINO
American Food/ Bar
2491 S SUPERIOR 414.747.1007
RED ROOM
Neighborhood Bar
1875 N. HUMBOLDT 414.224.7666
ROMAN COIN Local Bar
1004 E BRADY 414.278.9334 RUMPUS ROOM
Neighborhood Bar
1030 N WATER 414.292.0100
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SABBATIC
Neighborhood Bar
700 S 2ND 414.220.9440
Theater
158 N BROADWAY 414.291.7800 SPARROW COLLECTIVE
418 E WELLS 414.278.9192
An Erotic Boutique
2427 N MURRAY 414.906.5304
THE TONIC TAVERN Cocktail Lounge
Handmade Boutique
2335 S. KINNICKINNIC 414.588.7366
STACK’D
Italian Cuisine & Pizza
2224 S KINNICKINNIC 414-747-9229 Burger Bar
170 S 1ST 414.273.7800 STONEFLY
TRANSFER
101 W MITCHELL 414.384.1555
TRISKELE’S Restaurant
Bar & Lounge Venue
1801 S 3RD 414.837.5950
SUGAR MAPLE
Neighborhood Bar
735 E CENTER 414-264-3630
UP AND UNDER
American Pub
1216 E BRADY 414.276.2677
TEN BELLS
Neighborhood Bar
441 E LINCOLN 414.481.2393
WOLSKI’S
Neighborhood Bar
1836 N PULASKI 414.276.8130
TENUTA’S
Local Bar
703 S 2ND 414.749.8227
Italian Cuisine
2995 S CLEMENT 414.431.1014
YIELD
1932 E KENILWORTH 414.319.1170