Gabrielle Barriere
Dining

57 Great Places for Patio Dining

The city has never had so many outdoor dining choices.

By - Jun 5th, 2017 04:33 pm
View from the Kimpton Hotel's The Outsider on the 9th Floor. Photo by Michael Horne.

View from the Kimpton Hotel’s The Outsider on the 9th Floor. Photo by Michael Horne.

Milwaukeeans love the summer, perhaps because we never get enough of it. And what better way to enjoy the weather than at an outdoor dining spot. Twenty-five years ago, you wouldn’t have found many such places in the city, but nowadays Milwaukee is bursting with restaurants offering a chance to dine al fresco — with sidewalk seating, backyard patios and upper deck tables. Here are 57 great places for outdoor dining.

Café Centraal: The Bay View hotspot is a restaurant run by the Lowlands Group and offers a patio connected to the dining room by a large garage door. The patio is secluded from the street; snuggled between brick walls covered in ivy. The restaurant has an extensive brunch and dinner menus. Open from 11:00 a.m. to midnight Monday through Thursday, 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. on Fridays, 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. on Saturdays, and 9:00 a.m. to midnight on Sundays. 2306 S. Kinnickinnic Ave.

Odd DuckThe new patio area, with five tables, has planters for growing herbs like chives, parsley, basil and thyme, which Odd Duck uses in many of its dishes. Odd Duck’s menu changes daily but specializes in locally sourced ingredients in small plate and sharable, typically delicious menu options. The kitchen is open every day from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., with the bar staying open till midnight. 2352 S. Kinnickinnic Ave. in Bay View.

3. Boone & Crocket: Bay View’s “pretentious without the pretentiousness” bar and patio for those looking for specialty cocktails and tacos from Gypsy Taco, an outdoor taco food truck. Gypsy taco is the only food truck in Wisconsin that has legal occupancy at a bar property, and offers gourmet tacos to pair with the hanging plants and soft lighting of their outdoor patio. Open 4:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. Monday-Thursday and Sunday, and 4:00 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. on Friday and Sunday. 2151 S Kinnickinnic Ave

4. Ugly’s Pub: The downtown pub serves a variety of options from burgers, to pizza, and tacos, and is open for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Just a short walk up a flight of stairs and pub-goers can be seated at its rooftop area with a great view of the city. Customers can choose to sit at the bar or at high-top tables. The bar is protected by plastic to keep out the elements but still maintain the view; heaters line the space to keep it warm. Smoking is allowed if it’s not during dining hours. Open from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. daily. 1125 N. Old World 3rd St.

5. Crazy WaterThis ultra-cozy American fusion restaurant is snuggled in the heart of the Walker’s Point neighborhood. Crazy Water’s menu boasts inspired takes on chicken, duck, steak, and seafood dishes. The space has had an outdoor dining facility for several years located in the back of the building. The screened patio overlooks a garden wall blooming with flowers and greens with a nearby fountain trickling musically. Open from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 5:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. on Sunday. 839 S. 2nd St.

6. BraiseSpecializing in locally sourced, New American cuisine, the menu at Braise changes daily to match the seasons. In May, the restaurant opened its outdoor dining space located on the second-floor rooftop area. Twinkling lights crisscross the dining space, where patrons get an overlook of the Walker’s Point neighborhood. The area can seat 18 or 40 for a cocktail party. Coinciding with Braise’s locally grown motif, the rooftop doubles as the restaurant’s garden. Herbs and spices, cucumbers, peas, greens, Thai basil, and lemon verbena grow amongst the diners. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. 1101 S. 2nd St.

7. Harbor House: It would be pretty hard to imagine a more unique patio area to dine, or one with more dramatic views. You want to look a the lake, the downtown skyline or the Calatrava addition to the Milwaukee Art Museum? It’s all on view from the Harbor House patio along with passing sail boats and sea gulls in flight. And the views are great during the day or at night. Adding to the nautical theme, the restaurant boasts perhaps the most extensive seafood menu in town. And for those looking for an inexpensive way to try the food, drinks and view, the restaurant’s happy hour is from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday-Friday. Or try the Harbor House “Music on the Patio” series, all summer long, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Sunday and Monday. 550 N. Harbor Dr., at the lakefront.

8. Colectivo Third Ward Café: This Colectivo location maintains an open concept design which gives coffee (and beer) lovers the option to sit inside or outside on its bar-stooled seating area. The location is directly across from the Milwaukee Public Market and Third Ward shops and galleries. Open from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. 223 E. Paul Ave.

9. AJ BombersFlanked by two giant beach chairs, Bombers outdoor dining area is made up of a half dozen picnic tables where guests can enjoy their burgers. Although the space is not shaded from the sun, patrons can watch the hustle and bustle of Water Street and track the growing Park East developments. Open Mondays through Thursdays from 11:00 a.m.to 10:00 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. 1247 N. Water St.

10. La MerendaThe large patio area behind this popular small-plates Spanish restaurant makes for an intriguing dining experience. The expanded space seats up to 40 people comfortably and has plots available for gardening possibilities, an advantageous venture for the restaurant which prides itself on being a farm-to-table experience. The space is modern; with a fully stocked bar, its own restrooms, and a large fireplace. Guests can sit at the bar or choose to be seated under the pergola which allows streaks of sunlight to fill the space. Monday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., and Saturdays from 5:00 p.m. 11:00 p.m. 125 E. National Ave.

11. Colectivo at the Lake:With the sights and sounds of Bradford Beach, the tennis courts and Lake Michigan just steps away, this Colectivo makes for a lively coffee hotspot. It offers such environmentally friendly features as a garden which soaks in the parking lot water runoff and rainwater collection barrels which are used to water the many planters that pepper the outdoor seating area. The shop offers coffees, sandwiches, and salads for early morning and lunchtime diners. Open from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. 1701 N. Lincoln Memorial Dr.

12. The Anchorage:Serving fine seafood with options like red snapper soup with sherry, Anchorage scallops, and Thai marlin, this venerable restaurant is located inside the Hilton Hotel along the Milwaukee River. The outdoor dining space features several metal patio tables with large blue umbrellas shading guests from the sun, and gives diners a view of the river and the lush greenery along its shores. Open from 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on the weekends. 4700 N. Port Washington Rd.

13. Apollo Café: This small Brady Street café boasts authentic Greek dishes and a “Pezothromio,” an outdoor eating area which Apollo says is “reminiscent of downtown Athens.” Seating includes a row of quaint little black patio tables for two, each with an umbrella, and one can watch on as Brady Street shoppers and diners trek in and out of bars and weave through the street’s many curio shops. Open from 11:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, until 2:00 a.m. on Thursdays, 2:30 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and open until 9:00 p.m. on Sundays. 1310 E. Brady St.

14. BalzacThis restaurant has a rotating selection of wines and small plate dining. Outdoor seating is available behind the restaurant’s main space, in the courtyard shared with Apollo Café. The area is set back from the hubbub of Brady Street but still has a very urban feel. Balzac is open from 4:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. daily. 1716 N. Arlington Dr.

15. Bar Louie: With a fire-pit, seating for 100, and convenient location, there are many attractions to this downtown spot. In the daytime the space has umbrellas ready to shade the sun and in the evenings, fairy lights twinkle above the guests. With trees bordering the space there is also some separation from the commotion of Downtown, but still opportunities for great people watching. The menu is simple: burgers, flatbreads, sandwiches. Open from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. daily. 1114 N. Water St.

16. Barnacle Bud’sThis seafood stop — a hideaway located along the Kinnickinnic River — is a mainstay for shrimp, oyster, burger, bloody mary and beer lovers. Bud’s offers a relaxed outdoor dining experience, with two outdoor patios, an outdoor bar, and lots of picnic table seating. Guests can look to the river and see boats being lowered into the waters and pulled into the docks. What makes the space so unique is the décor; the patio and restaurant inside are meticulously decorated like an old sunken ship. Open from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily. 1955 S. Hilbert St.

17. Beans & BarleyThis restaurant-grocery store hybrid features soups, sandwiches, great bakery and plenty of vegetarian options. The eatery features a small patio space nuzzled next to North Ave. The area can seat around 20 and is flanked by large pine trees which give guests shade and privacy from all the action at the East Side hub of North and Farwell. Open from 8:00 a.m. 9:00 p.m. every day. 1901 E. North Ave.

18. Beer Belly’s: Serving classic American eats like burgers, steak, fish-fries and ribs, Beer Belly gives customers the option of eating on the sunny patio in front of the restaurant near the airport. The area has several metal patio tables which look out onto Layton Ave. Open from 11:00 a.m. 2:00 a.m. daily. 512 W. Layton Ave.

19. Bremen Café: One of Riverwest’s signature hangouts. Patrons flock here for reasonably-priced coffees and spirits, plus the high speed internet. The space also has weekly live performances, pinball machines, and an oversized Jenga game. The outdoor seating area is comprised of lines of patio tables and chairs which border the building; a great place to sip coffee and enjoy the neighborhood. Open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 a.m., Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. 901 E. Clarke St.

20. Red Lion Pub: Featuring classic British dishes like Shepherd’s Pie and bangers and mash as well as burgers and seafood, this pub gives its guests the option of being seated on its rooftop patio area overlooking the Milwaukee River with hanging lights dangling overhead. Open from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. Monday through Friday, Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 a.m., and Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. 1850 N. Water St.

21. CasablancaOverlooking Brady Street, Casablanca’s newly erected second floor dining veranda is gaining fans. Sections of the patio are covered but much of it is shaded only by a pergola so diners can enjoy the summer breeze. The restaurant serves classic dishes from the Middle-East, has hookah service and overhead heaters for cold weather. Open from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday and 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. Thursday through Saturday. 728 E. Brady St.

22. Hi Hat Lounge & Garage: This cocktail lounge and restaurant on the corner of Arlington and Brady Street boasts a wide variety of sandwiches and burgers, while also having brunch and nighttime drink specials. The patio, or Parkhaus as it is called, is shaded by surrounding plants and dotted with flower pots and planters. The patio’s raised deck seats 34 and the lower seating area can seat 40. The bar is open Monday through Friday from 4:00 p.m. to close; and opens at 10:00 a.m. on the weekends. The dining room is open weekdays from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and weekends from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. from 10:00 p.m. 1701 E. Arlington Pl.

23. Buck Bradley’s: Featuring the largest bar in Milwaukee and offering casual dining favorites like burgers, pizza, steaks, and sandwiches, this is a popular stop before and after Bradley Center events. The patio area seats around 20 and looks out onto the street from the sidewalk. Open from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. daily. 1019 N. Old World 3rd St.

24. Café at the Plaza: Known for their breakfasts and diner-style food, located in a venerable hotel, the cafe has an art deco style patio with about a dozen tables. The space is framed by ivy-covered brick walled on two sides, with a nice view of the Milwaukee skyline. Serves breakfast and lunch. Opens from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. every day. 1007 N. Cass St.

25. Cafe Corazon: Mexican restaurant in the heart of Riverwest. Corazon raises its own cattle, and sources its chicken and pork from area farms. Outdoor dining features several umbrella laden picnic benches shaded by the huge oak trees lining the street. There’s also a roofed area that opens to the outdoors.  Open from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on the weekends. 3129 N. Bremen St.

26. PalominoFeaturing old time Western décor, this Bay View bar and restaurant has a small outdoor patio overlooking a park and the lake. Palomino is known for Southern American Soul food like po boys, fried green tomatoes, house-made fried pickles, wood grilled chicken wings, cornbread and biscuits. Open from 4:00 p.m. to midnight Monday through Thursday, Friday and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 a.m., and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. 2491 S. Superior St.

27. Bel Air Cantina: Serves California-style Mexican favorites like tacos, burritos, fajitas, and tamales. Generous patio area seats 75 and overlooks the Milwaukee River and can get packed. Open from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. Monday through Friday, and open at 10:00 a.m. on the weekends. 1935 N. Water St.

28. Tess: Tess offers a lovely, large outdoor dining area surrounded by gardens filled with flowers, vegetables, and herbs. Half of the space has overhead heaters for those chilly Milwaukee nights. Tess specializes in chicken, fish, pasta, and steak dishes, with a good Friday fish fry. Open from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 10:00 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. 2499 N. Bartlett Ave.

29. Iron Horse Hotel: In one of Milwaukee’s top patio spaces, restaurant goers are greeted by friendly décor and the sounds of freight trains chugging past not far from the hotel. Serves a full food and cocktail menu throughout the day. The patio, which is referred to as The Yard, offers sectional seating, a woodburning brick flatbread oven, an outdoor bar made from the original hotel fire doors, a pergola for private functions, and overhead sail umbrellas allowing for sun and shade. Open Monday through Wednesday from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. and until 2:00 a.m. Thursdays and Fridays, Saturdays from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m., and Sundays from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. 500 W. Florida St.

30. The Harp Irish Pub: This Milwaukee favorite offers a deck overlooking the Milwaukee River smack in the middle of Downtown. The bar seats on the patio are oriented to face the river directly, making eating a butter burger and drinking beer just that much more enjoyable. This Irish pub offers daily drink specials and live music on Sundays. Open daily at 11:00 a.m. 113 E. Juneau Ave.

31. The Knick: Downtown eatery has a colorful patio area overlooking Juneau Park and Lake Michigan and seats several dozen restaurant goers. Offers a wide variety of foods like burgers, sandwiches, and seafood. Open from 11:00 a.m. to midnight Monday through Friday and weekends from 9:00 a.m. to midnight. 1030 E. Juneau Ave.

32. Estabrook Beer Garden: This Milwaukee County Parks beer garden is the first public beer garden in the U.S. since prohibition. The garden has a European feel and little hiking trail leading beer drinkers to the adjacent river. Their beer, mostly from Hofbrau, ar served in liter and half-liter mugs. The food includes some German classics: Saturday Schnitzel, sausage, giant pretzels, and Friday Fish Frys. Live music and keg tapping are frequent on the weekend. Picnic baskets are welcomed, and the garden is cash only. Open daily from 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. 4610 Estabrook Parkway.

33. Cafe HollanderBy now an East Side and Downer Avenue institution, with a large, popular patio area; wicker tables and chairs are positioned around a sprawling tree in the center of the space. Each table comes with a white umbrella, shading eaters from the sun. Hollander offers their well-known brunch, as well as dinner options, with a Belgian emphasis. Open from 8:00 a.m. to midnight Sunday through Wednesday and stays open until bar close Thursday through Saturday. 2608 N. Downer Ave.

34. Water Buffalo: With a two-story terrace on the downtown Riverwalk, Water Buffalo provides a spectacular view of Milwaukee at night. Patrons can sip drinks while watching the passing scene. The menu is a take on classic bar foods, with salads, sandwiches and entrees. Open from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and closed at 9:00 p.m. on Sundays. 249 N. Water St.

35. Cafe BeneluxA Third Ward favorite, Benelux’s rooftop seating is great for summer dining and people watching. The huge rooftop patio area spans the entire length of the restaurant and is fully outfitted with bussing stations and restrooms. Like Hollander, the restaurant offers Belgian inspired burgers, mussels, pannenkoeken, and frites and a large Belgian style beer menu. Open from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Monday through Thursday, Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m., Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m., and Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. 346 N. Broadway.

36. Cafe La Scala: Offers a large courtyard area where diners can order the restaurants signature paninis and pizzas. It’s actually located inside the Italian Community Center in the Third Ward. The courtyard even has a water fountain for diners to enjoy. Open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Fridays from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. 631 E. Chicago St.

37. Calderone Club: Downtown restaurant with street side tables. Menu boasts a huge selection of sandwiches, pizza, pasta, and steak. Open Monday through Thursday 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.; Fridays from 11:00 a.m. to midnight, Saturdays from noon to midnight, and Sundays from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. 842 N. Old World 3rd St.

38. Smoke Shack: Cozy little barbeque restaurant in Third Ward features a large patio area that seats 70. The patio is nuzzled between two buildings, tucked away from the sidewalk and street, which makes for a rather peaceful dining experience. The menu offers pulled pork, housemade Berkshire sausage, and Black Angus brisket. Open daily at 11:00 a.m. 332 N. Milwaukee St.

39. Coast: Featuring stunning views of the Milwaukee Art Museum and Lake Michigan, the restaurant offers upscale dining with a variety of seafood and steak offerings and its signature popovers. Open from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. 931 E. Wisconsin Ave.

40. Coquette Café: French bistro with moderate-priced food, great salads and dessert. Its outdoor dining offers tables along one of the Third Ward’s most bustling streets, great for people watching or resting between shopping. Open from 11:00 a.m. to  10:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, Fridays from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Saturdays from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 316 N. Milwaukee St.

41. County Clare: Going al fresco at this Irish pub and restaurant will give you a chance to try its root soup, meat loaf, smoked salmon or corned beef. The patio area is sectioned off from the street by quaint wooden fencing. Tall trees shade the space which can seat several dozen. Open Monday through Thursday from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Fridays from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. 1234 N. Astor St.

42. Cubanitas: The city’s only Cuban inspired restaurants, serving classic Cuban dishes such as empanadas, plantains and mojitos. In the heart of Downtown, with the street eating area decked out in cozy orange tables and chairs that complement the building’s flashy paint job. Great people watching at night. Open from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 12:00 p.m. 1:00 a.m. on Fridays, and Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to midnight. 728 N. Milwaukee St.

43. Dino’s Taverna: Casual downtown restaurant with a Grecian style. The restaurant offers salads and sandwiches inspired by the region. Their daily soups are made from local, fresh ingredients and they normally have lunch specials. The patio area overlooks Jefferson St. and features a smattering of colorful little tables, fine for a summer lunch. 777 N. Jefferson St.

44. Dogg Haus on Brady: One of the four Dogg Hauses in the Milwaukee area, it’s a great place to grab a hotdog for a quick lunch. Haus goers have the option to sit outside on the patio tables which are best suited for people and traffic watching. Open from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m. 1433 E. Brady St.

45. Screaming Tuna: Its patio area is located directly on the river, with stunning views of Downtown and the waterside; diners can even park their boats on the docks and walk into the restaurant. Serves a variety of sushi and Asian dishes. The patio seats around 90 including designated area for large party tables. Open from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. on Saturdays and 10:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Sundays. 106 W. Seeboth St.

46. El Fuego: Mexican restaurant has a patio lined in pueblo-styled brick walls with Mexican pottery and plants. The centerpiece of the patio is the massive waterfall which babbles away as restaurant goers enjoy their Mexican fare. There are also two large fireplaces in the patio area. Open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. 909 W. Layton Ave.

47. The Wicked Hop: Directly across from the Milwaukee Public Market, The Wicked Hop serves pub favorites like salads, soups, pasta, sandwiches and entrees. The patio space is shaded by an awning which makes for a great space to escape hot Third Ward shopping trips. Open Monday through Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00 a.m.to 2:00 a.m., and 10:00 a.m. to noon on Sundays. 345 N. Broadway.

48. Von Trier: East Side bar serves food and boasts an enclosed beer garden. Though situated in a fairly busy area, the garden outside feels strangely secluded from North Ave. Patrons can choose from one of the many beers on tap and mill about the little tables. The space is surrounded by ivy covered brick walls, with windows open to the street. Open from 4:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. Monday through Thursday, Fridays and Saturdays from 3:00 p.m. to 2:30 a.m., and Sundays from 3:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. 2235 N. Farwell Ave.


49. Pizzeria Piccolo: Cozy outdoor patio with picnic tables and a family-friendly vibe. The inexpensive menu offers their signature thin-crust Neapolitan pizzas, along with pastas, paninis, salads and gelato for dessert. Plus, live music on the patio all summer long, Thursday through Saturday evenings. Restaurant hours Sunday-Thursday: 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 pm., Friday-Saturday: 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. 7606 W. State St., Wauwatosa.

50. City Market: This Shorewood restaurant offers a quaint and casual dining experience. Patrons can order sandwiches, salads, pastas, or soups as they arrive, and then choose to sit in the open patio area overlooking the cross street. The restaurant also doubles as a bakery, serving fresh scones, cookies, muffins, and breads. Open daily 6:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. 2205 E. Capitol Dr.

51. The Outsider on the 9th Floor: This chic rooftop bar on the top (ninth) floor of the Kimpton Hotel offers sleek and shiny banquettes surrounding fire pits and glass fencing, along with views of the city. Inside, the bar is perfect for craft cocktails and small snacks with friends. Pizza delivery is also available from the downstairs Tre Rivali restaurant. Open from 4:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Sunday-Wednesday, and 4:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. Thursday-Saturday. 310 E. Chicago St.

52. Bert’s Bar: This Bar and Grill is located on Lake Drive, facing Lake Michigan. Their beer patio is open all summer and features both local and national musicians, so guests have something to listen to as they eat their Friday Fish Fry or the daily specials from a fairly large bar menu. Countless beers on tap as well as an extensive list of bottles beers are served. Open Tuesday-Saturday 3:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., and 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Sunday. 3907 S. Lake Dr.

53. Leff’s Lucky Town: This casual bar and grill has quickly become a Tosa favorite. Featuring a spacious outdoor patio, guests can enjoy daily lunch specials and their “Big Ass Pretzel” in comfort and shade. Menu of  bar food boasts fish fries, burgers and many different sandwiches. Children are welcomed to join in many of the weekly events hosted. Open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. 7208 W. State St.

54. Milwaukee Sail Loft: Where the city and the seaside meet- the Milwaukee Sail Loft is at the edge of the Third Ward on the coast of Lake Michigan. Specializing in seafood, the restaurant takes pride in the use of only environmentally friendly farmers and harvesting sources. The deck offers both views of the city and sea life, providing guests with multiple environments. Open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. Monday-Thursday and 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. Friday-Sunday. 649 E. Erie St.

55. Yokohama: StandEatDrink Hospitality’s most recent restaurant addition, Yokohama, is new to the Milwaukee scene. After traveling to Yokohama, Japan, the creators wanted to bring the Asian-Pacific feel to Milwaukee, featuring ramen, steamed buns, burgers in seared ramen buns, and craft cocktails served either inside their restaurant, or outside in their “parklet.” This new restaurant expanded their patio onto the road, extending from the sidewalk. Yokohama opened on May 18th, and is open Sunday-Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 a.m., with karaoke hours offered every night. 1932 E. Kenilworth Pl.

56. Swig: The warm, cozy environment of the inside of the Third Ward’s Swig pairs well with the comfort of their patio. What appears as windows in the front of the tapas-style restaurant doubles as functioning garage doors, creating easy access to their outdoor seating shaded by large umbrellas. Brunch and dinner is served, as well as craft cocktails and specialty wines along with their weekly infusions. Swig is open Monday-Friday at 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Saturday at 10:00 a.m.to 10:00 p.m., and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 217 N. Broadway.

57. Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery: A huge popular patio along the river places you right in the middle of Downtown, with great views of the city and passing boats. Brewpub makes its own line of beers, and the dining menu is extensive. Daily 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. 740 N. Plankinton Ave..

8 thoughts on “Dining: 57 Great Places for Patio Dining”

  1. Stubbies and Red Lion Pub are great too.

  2. Dave Reid says:

    @Kori Yes, two great additions.

  3. D.K. says:

    Hubbard Park Lodge’s patio is my recommendation if you’re looking for a secluded, beautiful setting.

  4. Barb says:

    You helped me schedule my upcoming Fish Fry Cubs patio dining event at Bert’s Bar

  5. Sandra says:

    Sandra’s on the Park in Hales Corners has a fabulous patio in a park like setting! No street traffic, just flowers and trees.

  6. The Farmer’s Wife West Allis, Everything out there is edible and it’s so sunny

  7. Doug Lueck says:

    Is it 55 or 57?

    URL says 55.

    Headline says 57.

  8. Bruce Murphy says:

    Doug, we added two more, it’s now 57

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