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When the weather is warm, Derek Collins is always on Milwaukee’s rivers. Collins, who also co-owns Milwaukee Paddle Tavern, says he takes his own duffy boat out at least five days a week, and as you might imagine he knows just about every place to drink and dine on the river. He shared what makes some of his favorites unique.
It’s time to pick your Milwaukee favorites for the year!
1. Twisted Fisherman
1200 W. CANAL ST.
Want a sandwich? Maybe paired with a Miller Lite or a marg or both? Twisted Fisherman is one of the city’s more affordable, easygoing options on the water, with lots of outdoor seating. It’s laid-back with a beach bar feel. (There’s actual sand on the patio.) Know that you might hear some live reggae.
Vibe: Kicking your feet up on the beach with a burger and a beer
2. Barnacle Bud’s
1955 S. HILBERET ST.
This is one of the first spots Milwaukeeans think of when someone mentions a waterfront bar. With bric-a-brac on the walls and a crowded patio, you’ll be hearing Jimmy Buffet in your head, even if he’s not on the speaker. Fair warning, Collins says, boat parking is limited – many spots are reserved for neighboring SkipperBud’s.
Vibe: Downing a couple two-tree Coronas and lovin’ life
3. Boone & Crockett
818 S. WATER ST.
This patio’s big selling point is the view – an unobstructed look at the Hoan Bridge and Lake Michigan. This isn’t the place for a Coors Light, though – the bartenders are all about “pretentious drinks without the pretentiousness,” as they say. You can easily imagine dudes with moustaches debating types of bitters. A bonus, Collins notes: The on-site Taco Moto serves delicious, quick bites.
Vibe: Watching the Hoan as the sun sets, sipping a cocktail with at least three ingredients you’ve never heard of
4. Screaming Tuna
106 W. SEEBOTH ST.
This spot on the edge of the Third Ward shows off a south-facing viewpoint of the confluence of the Milwaukee and Menomonee rivers. Plus, unlike the usual burgers and sandwiches of most riverfront patios, Screaming Tuna serves sushi and other Japanese cuisine.
Vibe: Enjoying some welcome culinary variety, a good crowd and a different kind of view
5. The Bridgewater
2011 S. FIRST ST.
This 2-year-old spot is one of the most upscale places on the rivers. It might be the wrong choice for you if you’re pulling up in sandals and a dirty T-shirt looking to party. But for an all-out fancy night out on the water, complete with fine dining and cocktails not served in plastic cups, this is your place.
Vibe: Savoring oak-fired carrots and a craft cocktail, ordering a ribeye
6. St. Paul Fish Co.’s Tiki Bar
400 N. WATER ST.
No, the Milwaukee Public Market isn’t directly on the water. But yes, this strange little tiki bar in the shadow of I-794 is a great option for boaters. Collins says his favorite thing to do in the summer is to park in the public docks at East Buffalo Street and walk the two minutes to tiki it up here. “It’s kind of a secretly floatable place,” he says. “That place is always jumping.” Plus, dining options are plentiful inside the market.
Vibe: Pulling up to a popping tropical party with a background smell of fish and cars zooming overhead
