Restaurants in Milwaukee’s Third Ward
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Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward offers a diverse array of restaurants from popular quick-stop eateries to unique local bistros. They offer traditional American dishes as well as alternative or international cuisines.
Onesto serves Mediterranean-inspired Modern American cuisine in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. From appetizers like crostini misti and house-made burrata to entrees of roasted short ribs and classic Bolognese, the menu has something for everyone.
Aloha Poke Co.
Founded by a thirtysomething Chicago native, Aloha Poke Co. serves healthy, fresh, made-to-order raw fish bowls with a modern Pacific island vibe. The fast-casual eatery combines sushi-grade tuna and salmon with rice or greens, toppings like cucumber and pineapple, and punchy sauces.
Its owners are restaurant industry titans including Ari Levy and former Potbelly executive Chris Birkinshaw. The chain has apologized for its trademark infringement and now uses a “more nuanced and situational approach to enforcing our marks.” The company is also hiring a new CEO, who used to work at Potbelly.
Aperitivo
In Italian culture, aperitivo means “before meal drink,” and this Third Ward spot offers just that in an elegant space accented with wood and top-tier hospitality. It serves up a menu of delicious sandwiches, salads and small plates.
Tuck into American brunch classics at Sweet Diner, including Eggs Benedict and stacks of pancakes. At Onesto, authentic Italian dishes like handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas are served in a cozy setting. The restaurant also features a terrific wine and cocktail list.
FreshFin
FreshFin is a fast-casual restaurant that serves Hawaiian-style poke bowls. The eatery is located in the new Bayshore center next to the west Target entrance on North Bayshore Drive. The restaurant’s menu is allergen-friendly and gluten-free by design. Customers can customize their own house-crafted bowls or choose from a selection of signature bowls such as cilantro chicken and curry coconut shrimp.
The small chain launched in 2017 and currently has locations in Milwaukee’s Third Ward, Brookfield, Wauwatosa, Madison and inside the Bucks’ Fiserv Forum arena. Its minimalist, clean interior design features wood tables, white bucket-seated chairs and thick rope wall displays.
Interval
Modeled after the famed Pike Place Market in Seattle, Milwaukee Public Market is the city’s most well-known indoor hub that pleases patrons day in and day out. You’ll find a little bit of everything here, from seafood and vegan options to sandwiches and charcuterie.
Found in the former Batches Bakery space, Cavas offers heavily Spanish-influenced shareable plates and platters. The menu also features grilled meats and stews that are as comforting as they are delicious.
Jing’s
Located in the Grain Exchange building, this Third Ward hotspot offers a full menu of Asian-fusion favorites – including Korean short ribs, Lao lemongrass marinated pork chops, curries and pho. The restaurant is also dog-friendly and offers plenty of food options for your pet.
Taking over the former Rivalry space, Saffron elevates Indian cuisine with modern approaches to culinary techniques and palate-pleasing flavors. This upscale spot is available for dine-in, delivery and catering.
This Third Ward spot has a hefty menu of sandwiches to satisfy even the most intense appetite. They also offer tasty pretzels from Milwaukee Pretzel Co and stuffed tater tots.
Press Waffles
Brothers Bryan and Caleb Lewis opened Press Waffle to bring Belgian Liege-style waffles Stateside. These yeasted dough delights are studded with pearl sugar and dusted with powdered sugar, and can be topped with sweet or savory toppings.
The sleek cafe also serves locally roasted coffee and savory sandwiches. The menu even includes a vegetarian option, as well as a few doughnut varieties.
Guests can also pick up Press Waffle merchandise, including T-shirts and sneakers. They can also take their sweet treats to go in zippered pouches labeled with the phrase “Waffle Money.”.
Saloon
The atmosphere of this bar is very warm and welcoming. The staff is also friendly. The drinks are very good, too. They have a wide variety of wine. This is a great place to stop after a walk around Milwaukee Pierhead Lighthouse.
This is a great bar for people who want to go out to enjoy the scenery while eating and drinking. It is similar to other Camp bars but with a more rustic cabin feel. It also hosts live country music on the weekends.
Shake Shack
Shake Shack is a fast-casual restaurant that serves made-to-order burgers, hot dogs, and crinkle-cut fries. The menu also includes frozen custard shakes and alcoholic beverages. Its locations are known for their cult-like following and high-quality ingredients.
The chain was founded by restaurateur Danny Meyer, who is famous for restaurants such as Gramercy Tavern and Daily Provisions. Pentagram designed the original kiosk’s graphics, which evoked visual sophistication while maintaining a Coney Island feel.
The burgers are delicious, but the shakes are what really makes this place stand out. Try the Larkspur, which features vanilla custard with marshmallow sauce and crispy crunchies.
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