A Milwaukee summer is glorious but fleeting. Take advantage of the sunshine and warmth while you can at one of these four local patios: an Italian classic, a romantic refuge, a beer garden with ice cream and games, and even a patio with tables inside a restored 1950s city bus
Transfer Pizzeria Cafe
101 W. MITCHELL ST.
Transfer Pizzeria Cafe invites guests to their unique outdoor patio this summer, including tables inside a restored 1950s era Milwaukee city bus. Open for more than 18 years, Transfer is an independent pizzeria with a wide menu of distinctive hand-tossed pizzas and a full-service bar featuring an extensive list of craft beers, wine, cocktails and NA drinks. Visit for lunch and dinner, Tuesday through Sunday.
Balistreri’s Bluemound Inn
6501 W. BLUEMOUND RD.
This local favorite has long been a popular spot for handcrafted thin-crust pizza, Sicilian-inspired pasta and other classic, hearty Italian fare. Balistreri’s expansive patio, with hanging plants swaying from the rafters, is a cozy and friendly place to while away a warm Milwaukee summer afternoon or evening.
The Pasta Tree
1503 N. FARWELL AVE.
For nearly 45 years, The Pasta Tree has been one of Milwaukee’s most romantic dining destinations, celebrated for handmade pasta, fresh seafood and Italian wines. In summer, the restaurant’s “secret garden” patio becomes a hidden oasis. The intimate outdoor setting is perfect for lingering over dishes like scallops with artichokes, pasta Pagliara, classic carbonara and vibrant pesto pasta.
Draft & Co.
441 W. WISCONSIN AVE.
The Draft & Co patio is located on Milwaukee’s new Vel Phillips Plaza. In the heart of West Town, just a block or two from all the theaters and right outside the Baird center. Our menu focuses on smash burgers and we have 32 lines of draft beverages including beer, cocktails, wine and More. Kid friendly with ice cream and board games. The patio is set up to be a beer garden which is also served by one of our vintage tap trucks when busy.
