1. Sala
2613 E. HAMPSHIRE ST. | 414-964-2611
This colorful Sicilian restaurant has been an East Side staple for over 20 years. For dinner, it offers a wide menu of pastas, pizzas, seafood and more, including Italian favorites like salmon with Sicilian salsa, pasta bolognese and chicken Parmesan. Or stop by for coffee, pastries and panini from 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
2. Café at the Plaza
1007 N. CASS ST. | 414-276-2101
A local favorite, this East Side cafe is a must-stop for brunchgoers. An open kitchen with a wraparound dining counter whips out classic breakfast options overlooking an intimate ivy-covered patio, ideal for a sunny morning spent sipping coffee and cocktails or enjoying a full menu of brunch options.
3. La Cocina del Sur
701 E. KEEFE AVE. | 414-810-0108
Pedro Tejada showcases the empanadas that made his Pedro’s Food Truck famous at this brick-and-mortar in Riverwest. But La Cocina offers many more Latin American and South American dishes, as well – like arepas, llapingachos and mote con chicharron.
4. Coco’s
151 ST. PAUL ST., OCONOMOWOC | 262-465-6878
Westward in Oconomowoc, you’ll find this elegant fine dining destination specializing in seafood and steak. With an extensive wine list and weekly special events like Whiskey Wednesdays and Oyster/Martini Thursday, the team at Coco’s ensures diners have an exceptional experience. Inquire about the restaurant’s concierge car service.
5. Fireside BBQ and Grill
7706 W. BURLEIGH ST. | 414-635-7400
Head to this local barbecue joint for ribs, brisket, rib tips and sandwiches, and other barbecue classics. Plus, traditional sides like collard greens, mac and cheese, fries and more. Stop in or order takeout or delivery online.
6. Heirloom MKE
2378 S. HOWELL AVE. | 262-229-1157
After three years as a popular local food truck, Heirloom MKE opened this brick-and-mortar in Bay View. The restaurant’s ethos is farm-to-table, offering a seasonal menu of comforting dishes. You’ll find a few favorites from the former food truck – like beer-battered fried cheese curds and hand-stretched burrata – along with new dishes.
7. North Avenue Market
5900 W. NORTH AVE. | 414-293-1230
On the city’s West Side, this spot offers patio seating, frequent live entertainment, craft cocktails (including at Mosler’s Vault, in a former bank vault in the lower level) and dining at Christopher’s Southern Kitchen – all coming together for a fun night out.
8. Balistreri’s Bluemound Inn
6501 W. BLUEMOUND RD. | 414-348-5183
This restaurant is best known for its Italian specialties like pastas and spiedini. And of course it’s got a great pizza: The Balistreri’s Special loads a thin crust with sausage, mushrooms, olives and onions – and there are plenty of other options, too. They also have an extensive menu of Italian favorites, including spiedini, Sicilian-style steak and a Friday fish fry.
9. Heidel House
653 ILLINOIS AVE., GREEN LAKE | 920-807-0300
Head northwest to Green Lake to enjoy a meal at Heidel House, a hotel right on the water. The hotel’s Oakwood Bar & Restaurant offers fine dining, while Waves Pub & Grill serves casual fare – and they both have that unbeatable lake view. Find a seat on the patio for a lovely summer lunch or dinner.
