I skipped town this weekend to visit friends in Missouri. Blessed with exceptionally nice weather, we spent most of our time hanging outside. We ate Shakespeare’s famous pizza on their patio, drank local brews outside of Flat Branch Brewery and spent a lovely evening overlooking the Missouri river at Les Bourgeois Winery. It was a beautiful, sun-kissed weekend.
On the seven-hour drive back towards our, still, thermally-stunted city I began thinking about the upcoming summer. I thought about the al fresco gems I know about. I also thought about those I’ve yet to discover. It’s going to be a great summer!
Here are a few places to imbibe outside to kick the season off. I’ll continue to post more as a find them. And if you, dear reader, have any other suggestions PLEASE, by all means, let me know and I’ll post them in a future column (and maybe even see you there).
So far, Paddy’s Pub (2339 N. Murray Ave.) provided my favorite patio experience. I’m almost positive there are magical fairies living in the greenery. The gorgeous landscaping makes for a transformational getaway from the city streets. Stone statues and fountains adorn the large courtyard giving authenticity to the old-world vibe Paddy’s is after. Plus, the owners are kind and always willing to bring out complementary pub mix to munch on.
Hooligan’s (2017 E. North Ave.) patio is made for people watching. They feature daily drink specials and some average bar food. I find this is a good bar for drinking pitchers. One afternoon I was with my brother and our eyes were drawn to an old, bearded, Gandalf-looking man in the apartment window above BBC on North Avenue. He was eating breakfast and talking to his plant. I couldn’t help but stare for a little while—one of many street view perks.
My mom won’t stop raving about the rooftop bar at Hotel Metro (411 E. Mason St.), so I’ll be checking that out soon. And as far as hotels, The Iron Horse Hotel’s (500 W. Florida St.) outdoor lounge and bar, The Yard is now open from 4-11 p.m. (weather permitting). The lounge features sectional couch seating with views of the Menominee River near the historic railroad. Umbrellas and strung lights hang overhead.
So those are a couple from my end. How about you? Where’s your favorite patio? Who has the best location or view? Are there more rooftop bars we should know about? Send me your suggestions and I’ll publish them in a future column.
And let the outdoor seating begin!
Hi-Hat Lounge, The Garage
1701 N. Arlington Pl.
Thursdays
Flirt: Ladies Night With DJs Kid Cut Up and Steve Marxx. Two complimentary drinks for ladies
Milwaukee Ale House
233 N. Water St.
Saturday, June 20
Modern Giants rock out the Ale House this Saturday. Check the Web site for more live music.
Cactus Club
2496 S. Wentworth
Friday, June 19 10:00 p.m.
Sleep Comes Down, Worrier, Tirra Lirra, Postmark
Thief Wine Shop & Bar
400 N. Water Street
Sunday, June 21
Father’s Day Tasting: Great Wines for the Grill 1-4 p.m. at the wine bar.
Start off your Father’s Day with a sampling of great red wines for the grill! Whatever you’re cooking, whether it’s steak, pork, ribs, chicken, or just grilled veggies, we’ve a wine that will work with it. A smoky Syrah, a smooth Malbec, a lighter Cabernet Franc—try them all! The tasting is $10 per person, with 50% off for Dads (only $5 for fathers).
Stonefly Brewery
735 E. Center St.
Friday, June 19 10 p.m.
Brew City Bombshells Burlesque Revue. Looks pretty hot!
Apartment 720
720 N. Milwaukee St.
Friday, June 19
Summer heat kick off hosted by Favio. And featuring DJ Class, “I’m the ish.” (Not too sure about the ‘ish’). Doors open at 10 p.m.
The Gig
1132 E. Wright St.
Wednesdays
Dim Peepers 8-10 p.m.
Enjoy the folky, jazzy, bluesy sounds of Riverwest’s own.
Mad Planet
533 E. Center St.
Saturday, June 20 9 p.m.
Mark Mallman, Group of Alto, Cherry Cake
Brocach Irish Pub and Restaurant
1850 N. Water St.
Monday, June 22
Brocach is starting a Monday movie night on the patio with free kettle corn and $2.50 Lakefront bottles. This Monday, Superbad.
Café Lulu
2265 S. Howell Ave.
Saturday, June 20
Jeff Hamilton and Matty Gonzales of the Cocksmiths play at 10:30 p.m.
Mondays
Movie and Martini Mondays. $5 Martini specials, begins at 8 p.m.
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
Don’t miss this week’s Dish on Dining column for the 411 on some great patio openings and one cheesy closing.
