1. Bowl Over at Landmark Lanes
EVAN MUSIL, ARTS AND CULTURE EDITOR
Having walked by Landmark Lanes many times and never stepping inside, I just figured it was the size of a small office – four cramped lanes and a handful of arcade machines, all at ground level. I wasn’t expecting a staircase into a cavernous basement of crashing pins and ricocheting billiard balls. Has this fortress been underneath me this whole time? It was like discovering a secret – albeit an open one. And I’m no pro bowler – as we’ve made clear – but I believe these remote depths allowed my star to shine. Yes, I tallied a few strikes, and you can, too! Consider it a good divey date.
2. Grab Brunch at Bass Bay Brewhouse
CHRIS DROSNER, EXECUTIVE EDTIOR
I’ve been Ann Christenson’s editor for seven years now, and there’s always been one of her recommendations in our monthly dining listings that’s intrigued me: Bass Bay Brewhouse on its namesake inlet of Big Muskego Lake. I don’t get down that way very often but I really liked what I found last weekend: Well executed, brewpub-style brunch – I had a great meaty scramble on Bass Bay’s signature cheesy hashbrowns – with generous portions, a solid taplist heavily populated by beers from The Explorium, and excellent (but casual) service. A table with a view of the bay is critical anytime (this is our 2024 Best of the Burbs Readers’ Choice winner for patio dining), but it’s extra fun this time of year watching the ice fishers mind their holes – and coolers.
It’s time to pick your Milwaukee favorites for the year!
3. Bake Some Chocolate Chip Cookies
ANN CHRISTENSON, DINING EDITOR
Let’s talk chocolate chip cookies for a sec. There’s nothing wrong with the classic recipe off the Nestle’s bag of chips. It’s never failed me. But there’s also nothing wrong with shaking things up a bit. Take this recipe by David Lebovitz. If you’ve never baked with buckwheat flour, it’s time to branch out. Pancakes and crepes are a natural fit. Then there’s the chocolate chip cookie, where it takes on a nutty, hearty life of its own. It also hooks up with chopped pecans and cacao nibs, so hello texture! I went light on the nibs, not wanting their bitter, stick-in-your-teethness to take over. But next time, I’ll be more generous.
4. Grab a Drink at Swingin’ Door Exchange
ARCHER PARQUETTE, MANAGING EDITOR
For many years, I was never much of a bar guy, owing to my awkwardness, inability to look people in the eye, and vague terror of all other human beings. But working at MIlMag, you get to know a lot of bars. I don’t think I ever visited so many bars in so short a period a time as when we did a “Dive Bars” feature on the cover of the October issue, and I was enlisted for research purposes. And I have learned to appreciate the world of the bar, from the dives to the overpriced cocktail lounges. Most recently, I saddled up to the bar at Swingin’ Door Exchange Downtown for a drink and some commiseration. The place has an awesome neighborhood vibe despite its central location, solid drinks, nice staff, and although I didn’t try them, I heard others raving about the food. I anticipate a return trip on another long night.
5. Eat the Beefy Boy Ramen at Easy Tyger
BRIANNA SCHUBERT, DIGITAL EDITOR
My favorite ramen in the city is at Easy Tyger. I first learned of the Brady Street establishment when Ann Christenson wrote about their buttered corn ramen two years ago, and I think the insanely delicious-looking photo on that story would make anyone want to try it. Admittedly, I’ve never tried the buttered corn ramen, but the Beefy Boy is my go-to. It has spicy miso broth and absolutely mouth-watering shredded beef in it. It’s so freaking good. Already thinking about when I can go back again.
