Brian Nagele
Milwaukee is a beautiful, modern city with great skylines and bustling streets, so why would you not want to see it from above?
And, of course, while you’re soaking up the fantastic views, you’ll want tasty drinks and food to accompany you.
Café Benelux
346 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: 414-501-2500
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You can find this European-inspired rooftop café in the Third Ward. Its Belgian and other European influences and vibes make the dining experience here unique.
Next to the John R. Plewa Memorial Lake Parkway, you’re very conveniently located when you’re in Café Benelux. It also gives you a sprawling, gorgeous view of Milwaukee.
Depending on whether you visit for brunch (which you really should) or dinner, you’ll find different cuisine. Overall, it’s mostly European dishes with American flair.
Next time you’re at Café Benelux for brunch, be sure to try either their incredible Cinnamon Streusel French Toast or the classic Nashville Chicken and Waffle.
Good City Brewing
2108 N Farwell Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: 414-539-4343
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Located on Farwell Avenue in the heart of Milwaukee’s vibrant East Side, Good City Brewing has built an urban taproom with the same meticulousness that they use to brew beer.
You can expect a family-friendly environment, fresh beer, delicious food, and an atmosphere that fosters good conversation and community. Click here to learn more about their locations.
The Outsider
310 E Chicago St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: 414-291-3980
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Ironically, inside the Kimpton Journeyman Hotel, you can find The Outsider. This upscale rooftop bar in Milwaukee has a classy, comfortable feel, perfect for an evening spent with friends.
The Outsider is in a great location, situated in Milwaukee’s Third Ward and overlooking a very pretty chunk of the city.
Their wines are delicious and pair well with a lot of the shared snack plates they have on offer. Try my personal favorite, the Saracco Moscato d’Asti with the Balsamic Onion Dip.
Braise Restaurant & Culinary School
1101 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Phone: 414-212-8843
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If you’re looking for a true experience, Braise has it. A New American restaurant and school, they serve incredible food with an organic philosophy and all in a stunning location.
On the corner of W Washington St. and S 2nd St., the rooftop greenhouses available for rent at Braise have unreal views and an unparalleled atmosphere.
If you make a reservation at the rooftop greenhouses, they guarantee you the spot until the business closes.
The atmosphere in these private greenhouses is upscale, classy, and cozy. When you visit, make sure you try the Pork Buns. In my opinion, these are the best on the menu!
Pizza Man Milwaukee
2597 N Downer Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53211
Phone: 414-272-1745
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Right next to Landmark’s Downer Theater, you’ll see another great option for a rooftop experience in Milwaukee: Pizza Man.
This pizza place has a lovely elevated outdoor patio where you can enjoy a slice with a side of beautiful Milwaukee views.
The atmosphere is very casual and very familial, so it’s great for a casual night out with friends or family.
Without a doubt, you must try the Pizza Man’s Special. They know how to make the perfect pizza, and this is it.
Red Lion British Pub on Tannery Row
1850 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: 414-431-9009
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If you’re looking for real British food in a comfortable setting with wide views of Milwaukee, then look no further! Red Lion British Pub has that all and more.
They describe themselves as “essentially the community living room,” a perfect place to relax and unwind with friends.
Located right on the Milwaukee River, this rooftop has a nice water view to go with its British flair. A must-try on the menu is the Breakfast Bangers and Mash.
Brothers Bar & Grill
1213 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: 414-224-1690
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In this party sports bar, you’ll find great food, great drinks, and a lively atmosphere full of friendly, vibrant people.
This rooftop has a nice view to go with its laidback, casual feel, which makes it another great option just across from the Milwaukee River.
If you visit this rooftop sports bar, make sure you try the Wisconsin Cheese Curd Burger.
Café Hollander – Downer
2608 N Downer Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53211
Phone: 414-963-6366
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Café Hollander has a Lowland European vibe, serving classic fare and drinks from the region. The Belgian flavors are delightful any time of day.
From their simple, pretty rooftop, you can almost see Pizza Man! The two rooftops are so close that it wouldn’t be uncommon to be able to see each other.
My favorite menu item in this chic and comfortable café was the Spice-Rubbed Salmon with Cilantro Zhoug.
The Rooftop
1130 N 9th St, Milwaukee, WI 53233
Phone: 414-988-1551
The Rooftop is a casual, modern rooftop bar on N 9th St. and between W Juneau Ave. and W Highland Ave.
With their comfortable couches and large bar, you could easily spend hours up here admiring the view and the drinks.
The vibe here is casual and fun, and you can’t go wrong asking the bartender for their recommended drinks. Don’t forget to try the TexMex-loaded hashbrowns!
Blu Bar & Lounge
424 E Wisconsin Ave 23rd Floor, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: 414-298-3196
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Blu Bar & Lounge is located in the Pfister Hotel in Downtown Milwaukee—a prime location to look out from their 23rd-floor rooftop and take in the sweeping views of the city.
Classy, chic, upscale, and intimate, this rooftop bar and lounge is perfect for a fancy dinner with someone special.
For those with a sweet tooth like me, don’t miss out on the S’mores Martini and the Dessert Trio.
Shaker’s Cigar Bar
422 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Phone: 414-272-4222
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You can find this last great option (though certainly not the least!) in the Walker’s Point neighborhood near the Milwaukee Fire Department.
The rooftop bar here is so cozy that you’ll feel like you’re in the comfort of your own home—just with way better views of the city.
Their food is influenced by so many different cultures and cuisines that it ends up being a rainbow of a potluck.
Don’t skip out on one of their high-quality cigars, and then grab a bite. My suggestion is to try the Cajun Meatballs.
