THIS STORY IS PART OF OUR 2022 BAR GUIDE. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THAT FEATURE.
1. Saffron Modern Indian Dining
223 N. WATER ST.
The nucleus of this elegant bar – in the very of-the-moment Indian restaurant that opened last spring – is the crew of apron-fastened tenders whose liquid labors complement the contemporary, creative food menu. Think ingredients like green mango and carrot, cardamom-infused mezcal and cashew curry orgeat. The tiki-inspired Goan mai tai is tart and refreshing, while the Indian boulevardier is spicy and warming. The studies in contrast cut across the cocktail menu board, sippers for evenings made for lingering in front of that white quartz bar top. Cocktails $15.
2. Odd Duck
939 S. SECOND ST.
The move to a more spacious Walker’s Point location brought with it a warm, inviting lounge with that familiar retro quirkiness. The ever-edgy cocktails, identified simply by number, are anything but simple. $13.
VOTE FOR MILWAUKEE’S BEST BEER!
What’s Brew City’s best? We’ve picked 16 of our favorite Milwaukee craft beers for a March Madness-style tournament, but it’s up to you to pick the winner! Will it be bright and hoppy? Dark and malty? A zippy lager? Every one is worthy of the title; who will claim the sudsy crown?
3. Buttermint
4195 N. OAKLAND AVE., SHOREWOOD
The drinks at this newborn from the Maxie’s/Blue’s Egg family lean old-school fancy. From the list of tap and classic cocktails, start with a cognac-based Sidecar, end with a brandy Alexander. $10-$12.
4. Lupi & Iris
777 N. VAN BUREN ST.
Plant yourself in one of the comfy leather chairs at the bright U-shaped bar or at a table in the lounge. It’s a spot made for lingering and sipping lingering and sipping a cocktail made with infused spirits and Italian aperitifs. $16-$18.
5. Birch
459 E. PLEASANT ST.
There are two bars here, each with different vibes: one quieter, the other set inside the lively dining room. Your liquid of choice could be conventional (an old fashioned) or nonconformist (the pickled ramp martini). $14-$16.
6. Bavette
217 N. BROADWAY
As at the old Third Ward location, the bar seats at Bavette contribute to the energy in the room. Sip a Spanish gin and tonic, nibble on pâté and breathe in the crowd at one of the hottest places
in town. $10-$14.
