I spent the weekend in Burlington, Wis., for my grandpa’s 83rd birthday party. We enjoyed the outdoors, plenty of food and libations, familiar faces and new ones alike. My grandpa, or Bebop as we call him, was sipping the scotch, which led to stories about my grandma’s sexy legs and how he and his buddies used to go out and get “fractured” (please help my sister and I bring this term back).
I always tell people that my family parties are really the only way to go. Give us music, pleasant weather, sarcasm, permission to indulge and we’re on cloud nine. The highlight was a performance of “Peaceful Easy Feeling” by my uncle and his band, followed by “Happy Birthday” featuring my younger cousin on the tuba. I won’t even begin to describe the beauty of that moment.
Mingling, stories and imbibing slowed as the sun went down. Ten of us cousins were now comfortably sprawled on an impossibly large couch, while our elders circled the fire pit. The hour was approaching for us to head downtown for my uncle’s rock show at the Burlington Brewing Company (BBC, 217 N. Pine St.) and motivation was slipping. With a gentle but persistent nudge from one cousin, we were off before it was too late.
We entered the bar and went straight downstairs to the live music. About 20 wooden tables with candles and dim lighting overhead lent more of a restaurant feel. The stage was in the front corner, and the classic rock tunes with solid harmonies were crowd pleasers. The bar area was separated by brick pillars and a short hallway leading to their numerous beer selections.
The bartenders ask what you like and recommend a proper beer. “I want something unique,” my brother said. The man poured a tap beer that escapes me now. My brother cringed and the bartender added, “I think it tastes like nail polish remover smells.” I’d call that unique.
My mom’s cousin preferred a light, fruity beer so they gave her a Lost Coast Tangerine Wheat – this summer delight was not subtle with the citrus flavor. The BBC rewards your willingness to try something new: mark your Better Beer Club chart each time you drink a new beer, and prizes and specials ensue.
The music continued as a few of us took our chances at Ms. Pac-Man and Lord of the Rings pinball. My mother proceeded to sing “Pinball Wizard” as she dominated the machine – clever one she is.
We had a ball at the BBC and I’ll surely venture back next time I’m visiting the family. I know Burlington is roughly 40 minutes outside Milwaukee, but you never know when you’ll find yourself in the Chocolate City, and now you know where to go.
I’ll add a Milwaukee side note, however. The musical lineup at the Pabst/Turner Hall/Riverside is a sight to behold in the next couple months. But wait, it gets better, $3 for a PBR tallboy. Go to Chicago and you’ll pay $10 for a Miller in a Dixie cup.
Burlington Brewing Company
217 N. Pine St.
Saturday, July 25
The BBC presents John Van Thiel: The Voice of Elvis, $25 for dinner and a show. Dinner starts at 6:30 p.m. and the show at 8 p.m. There is limited seating so call the BBC at 262-767-0300 to book your tickets.
Thief Wine Shop & Bar
400 N. Water St.
All week
Happy Birthday Thief Wine! This wine shop turned one on Tuesday, July 21. To celebrate, they’re hosting anniversary specials all week, including a grab bag, extended happy hour and discounted high-end wines by the glass. Check out the anniversary pagefor more details.
Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge
1579 S. 9th St.
Tuesday through Friday
5-9 p.m.
Half Price Old Fashioneds and Depression Era Cocktails
Stonefly Brewing Company
735 E. Center St.
Saturday, July 25
10 p.m.
The Vega Star, Hayward Williamsand Fermata
Apartment 720
720 N. Milwaukee St.
Thursday, July 23
The GZA of the Wu Tang Clan will be dropping hits from his classic album Liquid Swords this Thursday. Doors open at 9 p.m. $18 in advance, $20 at the door. Just for kicks, check out this clip of the RZA, GZA and Bill Murray from Coffee and Cigarettes – hilarious!
Mad Planet
533 E. Center St.
Thursday, July 23
Go to this show! Celebrate with Milwaukee’s psychedelic soundtrack band, The Chain for their CD release show. Opening set by Minneapolis band Brute Heart.
Brocach Irish Pub & Restaurant
1850 N. Water St.
Monday, July 27
Check out Brocach’s Monday movie night on the patio with free kettle corn and $2.50 Lakefront bottles. This Monday, Forrest Gump.
Discovery World
500 N. Harbor Dr.
Friday, July 24
Fish Fry and a Flick on the lakefront with great Point Beer specials. Showing this week, National Lampoon’s Animal House, with a special guest appearance by Mark Metcalf, aka Doug Neidermeyer.
Café Lulu
2265 S. Howell Ave.
Monday-Friday
Try the Lulu happy hour Mon-Fri 4-7 p.m. and Mon-Thurs 11 p.m.-close. Take a $1 off all rail drinks, tap beer and wine. Closed on Sunday, July 26.
Blackbird
3007 S. Kinnickinnic Ave.
Tuesdays
Blackbird offers one of my new favorite Happy Hour specials: Free tacos from Hector’s, 4-8 p.m. or until supplies last. Also, $4 Margaritas and $2 Pacifico and Corona
Cactus Club
2496 S. Wentworth Ave.
Thursday, July 23
9:30 p.m.
The Fatty Acids, The Battle Royale, Fresh Cut Collective
Benno’s Genuine Bar & Grill
7413 W. Greenfield Ave.
Mondays
$1 off all taps and three sliders for $3.
