MILWAUKEE AREA PATIO & ROOFTOP DINING GUIDE

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Enjoy the food and fresh air!

Milwaukee Outdoor Dining: The Best Patio and Rooftop Dining in the Milwaukee Area

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After the long Winter and never-ending Spring, Summer is finally here. Welcome! If you are looking to make the most of it and find the best rooftop and patio dining spots, this is the post for you. Some spots are more kid-friendly and some you’ll want to save for a Mom’s Night Out or a Date Night to check out when you take some time away from the kiddos.

Ash Hearth and Bar at the Iron Horse Hotel

With nearly 5,000 square feet of space featuring upholstered sectionals and a comfortable upscale vibe, you’ll feel like you’re in a whole different city.

500 W. Florida St., (414) 831-4615.

Balzac

Enjoy the beautiful outdoor courtyard just off of the bustle of Brady Street. You can also make reservations online.
1716 N. Arlington Pl., (414) 755-0099

Bar Louie

Bar Louie serves lunch, dinner, and late night dining.. The patio is lit with string lights and a bonfire offers warmth on those cool WI summer nights.

95 N Moorland Road, Brookfield, WI 53005, 262-505-6319

Barnacle Bud’s

Home of Milwaukee’s only outdoor Oyster Bar and the largest in Wisconsin! What used to be a hidden gem and is now an iconic Milwaukee restaurant, Barnacle Bud’s has mostly patio seating and serves dumpster punch in mason jars.

1955 S. Hilbert St., Milwaukee, (414) 481-9974

Bel Air Cantina

Milwaukeeans have loved Bel Air for quite a while, but the newly remodeled location in Brookfield at The Corners of Brookfield has taken the #PoweredbyTacos experience to a new level with plenty of outdoor seating that overlooks the Market Square of The Corners and wraps around the side of the building. Is there anything better than a margarita and a taco al fresco? Nope. I think not.

2625 N Downer Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53211, (414) 964-1190, belaircantina.com

1935 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53202, (414) 226-2245, belaircantina.com

6817 W North Ave, Wauwatosa, WI 53213, (414) 988-8533, belaircantina.com

410, W Town Square Way, Oak Creek, WI 53154, (414) 215-7995, belaircantina.com

250 High Street, Brookfield, WI 53045, (262) 784-4938, belaircantina.com

Belfre Kitchen

Ringed by a vintage-style fence and dotted with planters, this patio includes lounge furniture beside the fire pit.

606 N. Genesee St., Delafield, (262) 303-5066

Boone and Crocket

Located on the Milwaukee River, the patio overlooks the Hoan Bridge and is a great way to take in a Milwaukee night. Check out the Light the Hoan light schedule and take in the show while you dine. Taco Moto truck is on-site, you can order online ahead of time, and I cannot recommend the nachos enough. *Chef’s Kiss*

818 S Water St, Milwaukee, (414) 212-8115.

Cafe Benelux

Inspired by the grand cafes of Lowland Europe, this kid-friendly restaurant is great for any meal of the day or even a cup of coffee with your girlfriends. Enjoy their rooftop dining down in the Third Ward with a gorgeous view of Milwaukee.

346 N. Broadway, Milwaukee, (414) 501-2500.

Cafe Centraal

You’ll be impressed with their bier books and one of Milwaukee’s longest bars. The bier list is long, and the food is mouthwatering. The patio area in the back is tucked-in and cozy. It’s one of my favorites for a cozy patio.

2306 S Kinnickinnic Ave., Bay View, (414) 755-0378.

Cafe Hollander

This is one of my all-time favorite places for brunch. Its casual atmosphere is a mixture of your favorite elements of the Benelux region’s rich culture. The Tosa location is perfect for littles who love to train watch. The Brookfield location has one of the best rooftop patio’s in Brookfield. And, the Downer location is filled with historical charm!

2608 N. Downer Ave., Milwaukee, (414) 963-6366, cafehollander.com
7677 W. State St., Wauwatosa, (414) 475-6771, cafehollander.com
5900 W Mequon Rd., Mequon, WI 53092, (262) 236-0107, cafehollander.com
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0150 Union St., Brookfield (262) 785-4490, cafehollander.com 

Central Standard Crafthouse and Kitchen

It took me a long time to figure out what restaurant the “guy carrying the big red bottle” I can see from the interstate was. But, guys, I found it! It’s Central Standard Crafthouse and Kitchen. They have a rooftop patio location downtown where you’re surrounded by the Milwaukee skyline while enjoying their full menu of food and delicious specialty cocktails. 

DanDan

Featuring a patio with a pergola strung with lights where you can enjoy your dim sum, noodles, or stir fry. I personally recommend getting the DanDan Noodles to share with the table, they’re amazing.

360 E. Erie St, Milwaukee (414) 488-8036.

Fuel Café

Fuel Café’s 5th Street location offers a great outdoor space to grab a cup of joe or a yummy meal.

630 S 5th St, (414)-847-9580.

Good City Brewing

Who doesn’t want to drink fresh craft beer on the rooftop this summer? Check out their newest location at the Mayfair Collection in Wauwatosa – featuring lawn games and patio dining!

2108 N. Farwell Ave., Milwaukee, (414) 539-4343, goodcitybrewing.com
333 W. Juneau Ave., Milwaukee, (414)  539-4343, goodcitybrewing.com
11200 W Burleigh St, Wauwatosa, (414)  539-4343, goodcitybrewing.com

The Gingerbread House

 

 

A cozy cafe in a historic farmhouse serving ice cream & baked & light bites, including soup. Sip a cold beverage from mason jars, savor their homemade soups and sandwiches, and browse their wide assortment of wines, beers, and cocktails. Find adorable home decor, jewelry, and more in their upstairs boutique.

S63 W16147 College Ave., Muskego, (414) 422-9601.

Jose’s Blue Sombrero

Known for their fresh guacamole made table-side, Jose’s patio seating is perfectly paired with a signature margarita.

7615 W State St., Wauwatosa, (414) 453-2300, josesbluesombrero.com
N Port Washington Rd, Fox Point, (414) 351-9280, josesbluesombrero.com
6430 Washington Ave, Mt. Pleasant (Racine), (262) 886-5600, josesbluesombrero.com

La Fuente

Known for their authentic Mexican menu and margaritas, La Fuente (translated to The Fountain) has a great open patio for dining. Kids menus are available.

9155 W. Bluemound Rd., Wauwatosa, (414) 771-9900.

Leff’s Lucky Town

What used to be a tiny gas station is now one of Tosa’s favorite summertime outdoor dining spots. Grab some food and then go splash and play at Hart Park, down the street.

7208 W. State St., Wauwatosa (414) 258-9886.

Mason Street Grill

Floor to ceiling windows open from the lounge to the outdoor patio sharing the live music experience. Enjoy the wall of perennials while sipping on your favorite beverage and ordering from the grill.

425 East Mason St., Milwaukee, (414) 298-3131.

Matty’s Bar & Grille

Voted #1 on WISN A-List for the best sports bar, Bloody Mary and burger, Matty’s has three beautiful patios, complete with HDTV’s to catch a Brewer’s game. Their outdoor seating is the perfect spot to sink your teeth into one of their award-winning build-your-own burgers. Or come on a Saturday or Sunday morning for a gourmet breakfast.

14460 W College Ave., New Berlin, (414) 427-3838.

Milwaukee Sail Loft

Not only is there a patio, but there is a patio on the water! Come by car or by boat to dine at this unique venue for brunch, lunch, or dinner.

649 E Erie St., Milwaukee, (414) 223-0100.

Movida at Hotel Madrid

Travel to Spain without leaving Milwaukee. The expansive patio will transport you while completely satisfying your taste buds.
600 S 6th St., (414) 488-9146.

O’Lydia’s Bar & Grill

This adorable Irish bar and grill was built in the 1800s and serves sandwiches and out of this world pub food.

338 S 1st St., Milwaukee, (414) 271-7546.

The Outsider

The Outsider is the rooftop dining location dreams are made of. They have amazing food, a full bar with tasty cocktails, cozy places to keep warm around fires, all kinds of great seating options and they’re right downtown. Find them on the top floor of the Kimpton Journeyman hotel in the 3rd ward. 

810 East Chicago St, Milwaukee, (414) 291-3980.

Patio Dining Milwaukee

Parkside 23

PS23 is causal dining and features tasty seasonal menus right from the farm. Live music on Tuesday nights and 1/2 price bottles of wine all day Wednesday.

PRO TIP: Call ahead to make a reservation to make sure you get a table, but be aware that YOU CANNOT RESERVE THE PATIO. The patio is first-come, first-served. So get there early!

**Be sure to ask about their annual farm suppers where you get to enjoy a 5-course meal under a tent right out on the farm!

2300 Pilgrim Square Dr., Brookfield, (262) 784-7275.

People’s Park

Placed in a landmark building in historic downtown Waukesha, People’s Park offers the best sandwiches and appetizers. I highly recommend the wasabi green beans! Brunch is served on Saturday and Sunday. Rooftop dining open all summer long!

337 W. Main St., Waukesha, (262) 522-6868.

Pizza Man

The original Pizza Man burned down in a tragic fire in 2010. Rebuilt and better than ever, their East Side venue has an incredible rooftop dining! They also feature a vast collection of wine on tap.

2060 N Humboldt Blvd., Milwaukee, (414) 272-1745, pizzamanwi.com
11500 W. Burleigh St., Wauwatosa, WI 53222, (414) 249-2000, pizzamanwi.com

Pizzeria Piccola

Owned by Bartolotta’s and located in the village of Wauwatosa, Pizzeria Piccola serves amazing pizzas out of its wood-burning ovens. Make sure to support a local non-profit or cause on their Society Sundays. They also feature gluten and dairy-free pasta and pizza dough! NOTE: Pizzeria Piccola is temporarily closed. Visit their website for an update on status.

7606 W. State St., Wauwatosa, (414) 443-0800.

Red Lion Pub

This pub is inspired by all the best in the UK from its decor to its food and drink. Dine on the patio for a great view of the Milwaukee River.

1850 N. Water St., Milwaukee, (414) 431-9009.

Solomon’s at the Trade Hotel

If you’re looking for an upscale place for dinner and cocktails, this is the place for you. It’s a new comer to Milwaukee, but I’m sure it’ll become a staple soon enough. It’s an upscale terrace found inside the Trade Hotel. Check their website for menu options and hours.

The Backyard

You feel just like you’re in your own backyard! Dogs are welcome (with a leash and clean up). Bring your lawn games and chairs. You can even bring some brats to throw on the grill. The menu serves pizza and appetizers. Check out their website for a list of planned events.

2155 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee, (414) 751-4087.

The Twisted Fisherman

Welcome the ocean to your table at this riverside seafood shack. The Twisted Fisherman offers fresh seafood, crab, ribs, and specialty drinks. Picnic tables and Adirondack chairs offer outdoor seating right along the river.

1200 W. Canal St., Milwaukee, (414) 273-8300.

Third Space Brewing

Dog friendly (dogs only permitted outside)and beer friendly, this beer garden is located adjacent to the tap room. Grab a beer and catch some rays. Outside and carry-in food is welcome.

1505 W St Paul Ave, Milwaukee, 414-909-BEER.

Vanguard

Best known for its vast sausage menu, Vanguard’s back patio is complete with string lights, picnic tables, and shade.

2659 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Bay View, (414) 539-3593.

Von Trier

If you’re looking to celebrate Milwaukee’s German heritage, this one’s for you. Von Trier’s patio is tucked behind the building and offers an escape to enjoy your dining experience.

2235 N Farwell Ave, Milwaukee, (414) 272-1775.

The Wicked Hop

Boasting tons of outdoor seating under a huge metal awning, this is the perfect place for people watching.

345 N. Broadway St., (414) 223-0345.

 


Obviously there are plenty of options to get out there and enjoy the weather while enjoying a fantastic dining experience. Where are your favorite stops for patio and rooftop dining in Milwaukee?

1 COMMENT

  1. Hello,
    I’m the general manager of Pizza Man Milwaukee and would like to mention a typo/correction. The location on Downer is now closed. We relocated to 2060 N Humboldt Blvd and have an even larger patio/balcony than what we had at our Downer location. It overlooks the Milwaukee River. Would be able to make this correction? Thank you!

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