The restaurant’s popular rooftop now lets you soak up the Third Ward vibes year-round.
Snag a coveted spot at Café Benelux’s newly renovated rooftop and you’re in for an unparalleled experience. The gorgeous outdoor space has long been the go-to spot in the Historic Third Ward on summer days, where you can take in a spectacular view of the Third Ward’s Cream City brick buildings, listen to the sound of the bustling neighborhood below and feel the sun on your skin while enjoying drinks and fantastic food. But now, a sleek, new retractable glass enclosure makes it possible to experience all of that, regardless of the season or the weather.
Welcome to the Lux Skyhaus, the latest evolution of Café Benelux’s iconic space that takes the hip, friendly atmosphere of the iconic restaurant to the next level. A lush greenery wall wraps around a cozy fireplace, while strings of lights and LED screens add atmosphere and entertainment. The overall ambience let’s you know you are at the epicenter of Milwaukee’s most happening neighborhood.
“It’s a great vibe,” says Ileana Rivera, Chief Creative Officer at Lowlands Group. “No matter the temp and no matter the forecast, our guests will be able to enjoy the views of Downtown all year round.”
The rooftop isn’t only for casual lunches and dinners. With expanded seating and a flexible layout, the Skyhaus is now a sought-after venue for private events—from corporate gatherings to weddings. Heat lamps keep things toasty, even during a Wisconsin winter, ensuring that you’ll be able to enjoy the Lux Skyhaus’ many amenities year-round.
Whether you’re sipping a Belgian bier or a bright cosmo, the level of care that’s gone into every aspect of this venue is evident. The welcoming service, authentic decor and delicious cuisine, plus the wide variety of imported beers, will transport you to the grand cafes of Northwestern Europe. The restaurant’s menu draws inspiration from the Lowlands’ team’s travels through Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands. Think: crispy frites with house-made aioli, garlicky mussels and a rotating selection of authentic Belgian beers—including four legendary Chimay brews served from one of the only Chimay towers in the state.
Inside, last year’s renovation brings new energy to the space, including a central 360-degree bar that invites you to linger. “I believe it made Benelux what it’s wanted to be since we opened it 14 years ago,” says Chief Executive Officer Eric Wagner. “It’s this breath of fresh air that really opens up the space.”For longtime fans and first-time visitors alike, Café Benelux’s rooftop reinvention is more than a facelift—it’s a full-on revelation. One that blends European charm with Milwaukee soul, rain or shine.
