THE PREMIER LGBTQ BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY
MILWAUKEE Vol. 2
SCAN QR CODE TO VIEW THIS ISSUE ONLINE Bar Guide & Event Schedule
TABLE OF CON TENT S See this issue online at
ourcommunityusa.com/Milwaukee2
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About Milwaukee
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Bar Guide
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Restaurant Guide
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LGBTQ Organizations & Attractions
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Events Schedule
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Business Directory
ABOUT MILWAUKEE LGBTQ Milwaukee Milwaukee boasts an eclectic LGBT community centered around the Walker’s Point and Downtown areas, where the gay bars reside. Everything from upscale martini lounges to down home, beerswillin’ sports bars await your visit. Many of the clubs in Milwaukee have been around for several years, and the community has developed and grown to support the scene. Mingle with the Milwaukeeans in “Brew City” long enough and you’re sure to feel right at home.
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Excerpt from gaycities.com
RESTAURANT GUI DE Odd Duck Quirky find featuring an ever-changing New American menu & creative cocktails. 2352 S Kinnickinnic Avenue, Milwaukee, WI
The Fitz Upscale, all-day Ambassador Hotel eatery serving Midwestern cuisine & classic cocktails. 2308 W Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, WI
Buckley’s Restaurant & Bar Local fixture for refined American comfort food like truffle fried artichoke & fig tart. 3908, 801 N Cass Street, Milwaukee, WI
The Original Handsome spot for upscale American fare & cocktail pairings in a refined, casual setting. 2498 N Bartlett Avenue, Milwaukee, WI
Zarletti Small, minimalist restaurant serving up creative Italian fare & wine. 741 N Milwaukee Street, #1, Milwaukee, WI
Amilinda Spanish & Portuguese plates are paired with cocktails & wine in a cozy-chic setting. 315 E Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, WI
Guadalajara Restaurant Homespun Mexican soups, entrees & drinks are served all day in a quaint residential setup. 901 S 10th Street, Milwaukee, WI
Maxie’s Boisterous Cajun, Creole & BBQ restaurant with a raw bar in a bi-level space. 6732 W Fairview Ave, Milwaukee, WI
La Merenda Colorful spot with an outdoor bar & a menu of globally inspired food, local beers & wine. 125 E National Avenue, Milwaukee, WI
Swingin’ Door Exchange Intimate haunt with old-school, saloon-like decor offers a full bar & comfort food. 219 E Michigan Street, Milwaukee, WI
Blue’s Egg Globally inspired American breakfast & lunch fare plus carry-out coffee & pastries. 317 N 76th Street, Milwaukee, WI
Oak & Oyster Fashionable oyster bar on the first floor of Merriment Social serving seafood & cocktails. 724 N Milwaukee Street, Milwaukee, WI
Bartolotta’s Lake Park Bistro Quaint bistro featuring upscale French fare, an extensive wine list & Lake Michigan views. 3133 E Newberry Blvd., Milwaukee, WI
Bavette La Boucherie Contemporary butcher shop & cafe offering a daily lunch & dinner menu. 330 E Menomonee Street, Milwaukee, WI
Carnevor Upscale steakhouse with an extensive wine list in a dark, contemporary setting. 718 N Milwaukee Street, Milwaukee, WI
Lucky Ginger Asian restaurant & takeaway outlet with Thai, Japanese, Lao & Vietnamese dishes. 221 N Water Street, Milwaukee, WI
Birch + Butcher Modern bistro & butcher shop serving Midwestern cuisine prepared on open-fire. 459 E Pleasant Street, Milwaukee, WI
The Diplomat Friendly outpost for American standbys with a contemporary edge plus inventive cocktails. 815 E Brady Street, Milwaukee, WI
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2019EVENT SCH E DULE August
performances, children’s activities, petting zoo and a fun zone. Enjoy Virmond park, it has hiking trails, amazing scenic bluff of Lake Michigan, playground and more. This is a great opportunity for all to get out and enjoy each others company. And realize that we all add and make a difference in this beautiful world. Learn more at eventbrite.com.
AUG 15-18 MILWAUKEE IRISH FEST Milwaukee Irish Fest is the world’s largest celebration of Celtic music and culture. The four-day festival showcases more than 100 entertainment acts across 17 stages. Learn more at travelwisconsin.com.
AUG 24-25 MILWAUKEE FRINGE FEST Following the rich tradition of Fringe Festivals, the Milwaukee Fringe Festival is a showcase of a diverse collection of artists that call Milwaukee home. From theatrical actors to painters, musicians to tap dancers, performance artists to playwrights, MKE Fringe is a joyous celebration of what makes Milwaukee’s culture vibrant and extraordinary. Visit mkefinge.com for details.
AUG 16 THE GREAT AMERICAN LOBSTER FEST This is a 3-day summer celebration of all things lobster, where “Deer District” is sure to be rocking with fresh seafood, landfood, ice cold drinks, family friendly activities, live music, and so much more. What’s not to love!? FREE! The festival grounds are open to the general public to enjoy Live Music and the many different food & shopping vendors. No Lobster Meals, reserved seating areas, or food/drink of any kind are included for walk-up GA guests. Get your tickets online at eventbrite.com.
AUG 24 BURNING FOOT BEER FESTIVAL Burning Foot Beer Festival is a celebration of beer, beach, art and music. The festival is held in August along Lake Michigan’s beautiful lakeshore in Muskegon, MI, offering the perfect way to end the summer. Beach camping and barefoot entry make it unique, the Brewers’ Ring makes it extraordinary. Learn more at burningfoot.beer.
AUG 17 INDIA FEST IndiaFest Milwaukee brings the flavor, sights and sounds of India for a day of family fun. Sample delicious Indian food; see gorgeous costumes along with cultural displays, dancing, music, a fashion show and activities for kids. Shop our marketplace for clothing and art from India and learn how to tie a turban and sari. Event is free to the public. Details at travelwisconsin.com.
September SEP 1 FRESH COAST JAZZ FESTIVAL Taking place near Lake Michigan’s beautiful fresh coast in Downtown Milwaukee, the inaugural Fresh Coast Jazz Festival brings jazz back to the city of festivals in a big way! Experience it all -- great jazz from the superstars of jazz, new music from the rising stars of the genre along with several
AUG 19 JEWISH FOOD FESTIVAL Food is for all ages and backgrounds. Come taste and enjoy the Jewish ethnic foods from the classics to the Israeli cuisine and of course desserts. Live Jewish music and local
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GOOD FOR BSINESS U S I NESS GOOD FOR BU Protecting LGBTQ Americans from Discrimination is Good for Business Business leaders know that protecting every American from discrimination is good for the economy. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender adults have a combined buying power of $884 billon dollars, and business leaders know that today’s generation of consumers prefer to shop at businesses that support gay and transgender people. Business leaders across the nation are leading the charge to secure nondiscrimination protections for gay and transgender people. Fairness for All Hardworking Americans • Gay and transgender people are our neighbors, co-workers, friends, and family. Hardworking Americans deserve to be treated fairly and equally under the law. Sadly, too many hardworking Americans are facing discrimination in areas like employment, housing and public accommodations, just because they are gay or transgender. • America is a land of opportunity and freedom, where people who work hard and meet their responsibilities have the chance to get ahead. Everyone deserves the freedom to achieve the American Dream, including gay and transgender citizens. Respecting Our Coworkers and Getting the Job Done • What’s most important is focusing on what we have in common, taking pride in our work, respecting our coworkers, serving customers, and getting the job done. • Employees should be judged on their qualifications, experience, and the job they do – nothing more, nothing less. Non-Discrimination Protections Are Good for Business • Business leaders across the nation, including conservative leaders, agree: Discrimination is bad for business. Today’s top job creators seek states and communities that are welcoming to everyone, including their families, employees and customers. • When every American is given the opportunity to work hard and earn a living, our economy, communities and nation succeed. To download a PDF version of this resource, go online and visit: freedomforallamericans.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/BusinessBackgrounderFFAA.pdf
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Excerpt from freedomforallamericans.org
BAR GU ID E Kruz Bar Popular for the outdoor patio, people flock here for friendly company and drink specials. 354 E National Avenue, Milwaukee, WI
This is it! Gay bar & cocktail lounge, open since 1968, with a jukebox & events such as karaoke nights. 418 E Wells St, Milwaukee, WI DIX Milwaukee Popular spot with DJ, drag and a great staff in a welcoming fun environment. 739 S 1st St, Milwaukee, WI
Walker’s Pint This eclectically decorated lesbian/ gay bar is friendly and drama-free. 818 South 2nd Street, Milwaukee, WI Sabbatic A mixed-crowd dive bar with live punk rock shows, this is a local favorite. The vibes are chill, the staff is friendly, and the cheap drinks are strong. Check out the wall art, too. 700 S 2nd Street, Milwaukee, WI
Fluid Milwaukee Relaxed gay bar offering craft cocktails, daily specials & event nights in a chill atmosphere. 819 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI Woody’s This casual venue has a large screen TV, drink specials and a friendly staff. 1579 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI
Estabrook Beer Garden Famous for their giant pretzels with cheese dipping sauce. Show up with friends or on a date for an afternoon under the sun. 4600 Estabrook Parkway, Milwaukee, WI
Harbor Room Drink specials and snacks here. Staying a while? Join their gay bowling and baseball teams. 117 E Greenfield Avenue, Milwaukee, WI
Hamburger Mary’s Milwaukee American bar & grill chain where diner classics & cocktails meet quirky entertainment. 730-734 S 5th St, Milwaukee, WI
LaCage NiteClub Two dance floors, six bars, drag shows and video screens. 801 S 2nd Street, Milwaukee, WI
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2019 EVENT SCH E DULE uniquely fun events that are sure to stimulate your senses. The festival venue, The Marcus Center, boasts a central location, comfortable seating, ample parking and is just steps from hotels, restaurants and plenty of things to enjoy! Find us on Facebook for more details.
Bounciest Fun Run on Earth! Learn more at thegreatinflatablerace.com. SEP 28 BEER RUN - LOST VALLEY CIDER We are all about being active, having fun and giving back to our local community. +10% of your registration dollars goes directly to local non-profits! What’s included?! All participants receive a FREE craft cider from the cidery and get to take home a collectors pint glass or seasonal swag item from the Brewery Running Series...plus swag, goodies and giveaways from our partners and sponsors + chance to win sweet door prizes and more free cider!
SEP 6 OKTOBERFEST Join us as we celebrate the oldest and most authentic Bavarian Oktoberfest in the Midwest...just north of Milwaukee in Glendale, Wisconsin. Oktoberfest, modeled just like the one held in Munich, Germany. Continuous entertainment includes traditional German brass bands, Schuhplatter folk dancing, singing, yodeling, sing-alongs, traditional German eats such as spanferkel and rollbraten, German beer and dancing for everyone. This is a kid-friendly festival with children’s carnival games. Held five-weekends in the Fall! Learn more at thebavarianbierhaus.com.
Your registration also earns you an invitation to stick around and enjoy the day’s entertainment: live music, food offerings, local vendors, and fun with our sponsors. Details and tickets at eventbrite.com.
October
SEP 13-14 MILWAUKEE MAKER FAIRE Maker Faire is a gathering of fascinating, curious people who enjoy learning and who love sharing what they can do. From engineers to artists to scientists to crafters, Maker Faire is a venue for these “makers” to show hobbies, experiments, projects. Learn more at milwaukee.makerfaire.com.
OCT (DATES VARY) WEST SIDE STORY Two rival gangs struggle for control of their New York City neighborhood. When Tony falls for Maria, the star-crossed lovers find themselves wrenched between their worlds. This passionate adaptation of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is filled with some of the most unforgettable songs including “Maria,” “Tonight,”“I Feel Pretty” and “America” telling the greatest love story ever told in this larger-than-life musical. Add dances that smolder and sizzle with energy and you have an experience you’ll never forget! Visit milwaukeerep.com for tickets.
SEP 21 APPLE HARVEST FESTIVAL Since 1987, Retzer Nature Center in Waukesha County has hosted the Apple Harvest Festival every September as a way to celebrate the area’s heritage of apple growing. This year’s festival features the heirloom apple market, horse-drawn wagon rides, pie baking contest, children’s activities, local arts & crafts, and much more! Learn more at waukeshacounty.gov.
OCT 17-31 MILWAUKEE FILM FESTIVAL The festival will screen 150+ of the world’s top films in three city venues. A festival is an immersive, experiential monument to the artistic, technological, and philosophical power of visual storytelling. It’s a celebration of the medium’s unique ability to capture the beauty and tumult of the human experience, to bear witness, to give voice to the voiceless— all while never forgetting to have a great time. It’s a tribute to the best of film, the best of the visual arts, and the best of human creativity. Visit mkefilm.org.
SEP 28 THE GREAT INFLATABLE RACE The Great Inflatable Race is a fun run with inflatable obstacles spread throughout the running course. You and your friends will feel like kids again as you jump, dive and bounce on our custom-designed inflatables. Get fit, support a good cause and create epic memories that will last you a lifetime! So what are you waiting for? Join us for The
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2019-20 EVENT SCHEDULE November
Set in a multi-million-dollar wonderland of elaborate scenes and dozens of original holiday production numbers, audiences nationwide will celebrate the most wonderful time of the year as they experience over 300 spectacular costumes and 20 of the world’s most astonishing acts.
NOV 24 CHRISTMAS PARADE Winding through the downtown the parade features marching bands, floats and a special appearance from Santa; kids should bring letters to Santa and come early to enjoy other festivities. Learn more at travelwisconsin.com.
Broadway singers perform original music along with a new twist on seasonal favorites such as “Deck The Halls,” “Winter Wonderland” and “Jingle Bell Rock.” On the edge-of-your-seat feats are performed by toy soldiers, snowmen, penguins, candles, reindeer, gingerbread, carolers, Santa and colossal ornaments flying, balancing and stretching imaginations in this groundbreaking holiday stage spectacular. Tickets and schedule available at pabsttheater.org.
NOV 26 A CHRISTMAS CAROL The Rep’s hit new adaptation is a tale of love, hope and redemption with just the right blend of beautiful music, lively dancing, stunning sets and eye-popping special effects. It’s a dazzling Christmas feast with enough theatrical goodies to fill any sized stocking hung by the chimney with care. Join Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim and Scrooge in this holiday classic the whole family will love. Details at milwaukeerep.com.
DEC 8 SANTA HUSTLE 5K It’s the MOST wonderful time of the year! So, find that Christmas Spirit and join in on the fun this year in Veterans Park Milwaukee for the Santa Hustle 5k and kids dash. All 5k Santa lovers will receive: Santa hat & Santa beard, performance hoodie and a festive finisher medal! Learn more at runguides.com.
NOV 28 2019 DRUMSTICK DASH Move Your Feet So Others Can Eat! Now in our 8th year, the Drumstick Dash 5K and Half a Drumstick 2.5K presented by Pick ‘n Save has become a Milwaukee Family Thanksgiving Day tradition! All adult participants will receive a navy blue, ultra soft pocketed hoodie with registration. Kids 5-12 will receive a free t-shirt! Complete details at raceroster.com.
January JAN 1 BOUNCE RUN It’s a 5K obstacle run, dance party, BBQ and costume contest all rolled into one family fun event. is it right for me? If you like live music, great food and getting active for the fun of it, the Bounce Run is your kind of event. It’s totally un-timed, uncompetitive and unlike any 5K you’ve ever run.
NOV 29 BLACK FRIDAY BEERFEST Forget the Mall. The best way to spend Black Friday is with great friends and your favorite craft brews at the Harley-Davidson Museum. Sample a variety of beers from IPAs to ciders from many of the Midwest’s best craft breweries. Save the date, tell your friends and plan to join us for this annual event! More details to come. Visit radiomilwaukee.org for more.
The Bounce Run features obstacles, like a tire maze, a water tunnel and a giant slide over a 5k course. Not into obstacles? They’re completely optional, but stay on your toes because the Bounce Crew will be on hand with a whole slew of water and confetti guns to keep the good times going. Learn more at eventbrite.com.
December DEC 3 CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE Cirque Dreams Holidaze is a criticallyacclaimed extravaganza that is both a Broadway musical and new Cirque adventure wrapped into the ultimate holiday gift for the entire family!
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LGBTQ COM MU NI TY ORGANIZATIONS & ATTRACTIONS
Cream City Foundation Cream City Foundation mobilizes philanthropic resources by harnessing the pride, passion, and commitment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people and their allies to advance the human rights and respond to the human needs of LGBTQ+ people in Southeastern Wisconsin. Website: creamcityfoundation.org
MKE LGBT Community Center Delivering educational and community-building services that meet the needs of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT+) people living in the Greater Milwaukee Area. Our welcoming environment provides health and wellness programs; arts, entertainment and cultural events; recovery, financial and family support services. We are more than just a physical space. We’re a place of acceptance, support, and joy; a real place to just be yourself. Website: www.mkelgbt.org
Argonauts of Wisconsin Argonauts of Wisconsin is a Gay, Leather/Levi, Social club with our home base in Hilbert, WI. We are proud to say that we hold the distinction of being the oldest Wisconsin-based gay organization in the state, and is known throughout the country by members of similar organizations and clubs
Courage MKE We are working to open and sustain The Courage House: a drop in home with onsite support for LGBTQ+ youth that have suffered mental or physical abuse, have no means to support themselves, and/or need a place to temporarily call home. Website: www.couragemke.org
The Club’s mission is “to bring together persons with a common purpose and inclination for fellowship and advancement of their individual and collective needs and interests.” Beyond that, the Club has also played and integral role in the greater community through the “Argonaut Charities” which has provided much-needed funding and support to area individuals, groups and agencies. Website: argonautsofwi.com
Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce An organization of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and LGBT-allied businesses, corporations and professionals throughout the state of Wisconsin focused on being a strong pro-fairness business community. Website: wislgbtchamber.com
BWMT - Milwaukee Black and White Men Together – Milwaukee (BWMT-Milwaukee) is a gay, multi-racial, multi-cultural organization established in 1981 as an outlet for social interaction for men of all ethnic persuasions. We are committed to fostering a better understanding of issues across color lines. We are also committed to combating discrimination in the lesbigay community and society at large. Men of all colors welcome. Website: nabwmt.org/milwaukee
Diverse & Resilient Wisconsin’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) organization, and the only one devoted solely to public health. Website: www.diverseandresilient.org Milwaukee PrideFest Our organization has its roots in the Milwaukee Lesbian/Gay Pride Committee, which formed in 1987 to host the city’s very first pride picnic, and in PrideFest Inc., who fostered the growth and development of that picnic into a three-day lakefront festival attracting over 30,000 annual visitors. Website: milwaukeepride.org
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BUSINESS D IRECTO RY Auto Dealership Ewald’s Venus Ford............................................................. 19
Network & Hosting Solutions Data Holdings........................................................................7
Boat & Yacht Sales SkipperBud’s.........................................................................1
Non Profit Organization Cedar Community.............................................................. 13
Boat & Yacht Storage SkipperBud’s.........................................................................1
Optometrist Eye-Q Optical.........................................................back inside
Cosmetic Surgery Skiin- Alex Colque MD Plastic Surgery............................... 11
Performing Arts Center Marcus Performing Arts Center.............................................5
Energy Healing Karing Hands Massage and Body Works............................ 15
Plastic Surgery Skiin- Alex Colque MD Plastic Surgery............................... 11
Financial Advisor Jon Hafemann- Edward Jones............................................ 17
Real Estate Loans 4 Homes...................................................front cover, 3 Nancy Simonson & Marty Defatte- Shorewest Realtors...... 19 Shorewest Realtors................................................................9
General Contractor Guardian............................................................. back outside
Security Cameras Kelley Communications..................................................... 15
Insurance Bob Vitt- State Farm Insurance........................................... 19 Marina SkipperBud’s.........................................................................1
Senior Living Heritage Senior Living........................................................ 17 Ovation Communities...........................................................9
Massage Therapy Karing Hands Massage and Body Works............................ 15
Venues Harley-Davidson Museum.................................................. 13
Med Spa Skiin- Alex Colque MD Plastic Surgery............................... 11
Voice & Data Kelley Communications..................................................... 15
Mortgages Loans 4 Homes...................................................front cover, 3 Museum Harley-Davidson Museum.................................................. 13
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