All this month, we're celebrating the 15th anniversary of the launch of OnMilwaukee.com. Consistently ranked among our most-viewed articles, our guides of dining, drinking and more catalog the best, most buzzed-about spots in Milwaukee. Many of them are more than a decade old, so our editorial staff (plus an army of interns) are always working to keep them up-to-date.
This guide-to-the-guides is by no means comprehensive (just like the guides themselves!) because frankly, there are too many great ones to choose from. These are just the most popular ones from the last 15 years. Read on, Milwaukee. As always, it’s been an honor to be your entertainment sherpa.
Brunch guide
First published on July 30, 2001
Forget that alarm clock, catch some Zs and savor a hearty breakfast at these Milwaukee-area restaurants when you wake up.
Cupcake guide
First published on Sept. 6, 2012
With shows like the Food Network's "Cupcake Wars," TLC's "DC Cupcakes" and WE's "Cupcake Girls" and competitions like Milwaukee's own Iron Cupcake challenge, there's no escaping this tasty trend. Here's a comprehensive guide to where to find the most delectable cupcakes in the Milwaukee area.
Fish fry guide
First published on March 19, 2001
It's one of Milwaukee's most cherished and distinctive traditions: the Friday fish fry. Go to practically any other city, and they'll have no idea what you're talking about. Here's a guide to where you can indulge in one of Milwaukee's most beloved traditions.
Golf guide
First published on March 20, 2012
Wisconsin is a great state for golf, from the multiple major championships it has hosted (and will host) to the thousands of rounds played a year on its public courses. Here is a list of those courses that are open to the public and awaiting your tee time.
Happy Hour guide
First published on Sept. 13, 2001
We know there's a lot more to this city than just great beer (or whatever you're drinking) but it doesn't change the fact that everyone – especially in Milwaukee – loves a discount drink. Here's a list of places where you can get happy in Milwaukee.
Irish Pub guide
First published on March 10, 2005
Some of these places may not smack you over the head with a shillelagh of Irish authenticity, but they've got it where it counts – what's more Irish, after all, than a good time and a great beer?
Italian dining guide
First published on July 24, 2001
Few ethnic cuisines are better represented in Milwaukee than that of the Italians. We've got nearly everything, from traditional Italian-American red sauce joints to upscale eateries and adventurous menus. Here are some of our favorites (and we've saved places that are generally considered pizzerias for another guide). Buon appetito!
Shoe shop guide
First published on Aug. 25, 2011
Milwaukee has no shortage of places to score new footwear, from fashionably fun to functional. Of course you can always go to a department or big box store, but here are some other options of places to feed your foot fetish.
Outdoor drinking Guide
First published on May 20, 2010
These days, outdoor patios come a dime a dozen. That's not a bad thing, but it would be futile to try to list them all here in a comprehensive guide. Instead, we're picking a few of our favorites that will help you take the party to the patio this summer.
Packers bar guide
First published on April 17, 2000
One could argue that every bar in Wisconsin is a Packers bar, so we'll say it right at the start: this list is only semi-complete, at best. Consider it more as some recommendations from the OnMilwaukee.com staff, and please feel free to add your own recommendations.
Romantic dining guide
First published on Feb. 1, 2001
From elegant restaurants to little holes in the wall, you'd be hard-pressed to run out of dining options in Brew City. But for the most romantic dining escapes, check out these Milwaukee-area gems.
Third Ward bar guide
First published on Feb. 16, 2001
Whether you prefer upscale wine joints, homey neighborhood pubs, or you get bored just drinking and want to play some table tennis, the Third War has the perfect bar for you.
Waffle guide
First published on Oct. 18, 2011
Whereas the pancake is a staple on Milwaukee menus, the waffle is less omnipresent. However, with a little bit of perseverance, it's possible to find a nice selection of waffles in numerous Brew City restaurants and cafes.
Water Street bar guide
First published on Feb. 6, 2001
In recent years a lot of great restaurants have sprung up in the area, but Water Street is still one of the best places to go after work or play to - excuse the pun - wet your whistle. Here's a look at Milwaukee's premier bar corridor.
Wisconsin Walking guide
First published on May 14, 2001
In a beautiful state like Wisconsin, there is an almost endless array of pleasing places for a short stroll, a long walk or a hike. With that in mind, here are a few of our favorite places and links to some others.
