We’ve all been there: It’s 1 a.m., you’re just leaving the bars and it suddenly dawns on you that you haven’t eaten anything since that microwave burrito from the work fridge at 3 p.m. Or maybe you’ve had just enough Spotted Cows that call for a heavenly soaker pad of fries. However, you’re not quite in the mood for regular ol' delivery pizza, and the chips and snacks aisle at Walgreens just won't do.
Don’t worry: OnMilwaukee has got you covered. Based on our own late-night dining guide, this comprehensive list will be sure to offer something that can satisfy your cravings.
1. Apollo Cafe
If you ever find yourself on Brady Street at 2 a.m. with a hankering for Greek food, Apollo Cafe is perfect for you. Open Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 a.m., they offer all the classic Greek fare, from gyros and spanakopita to hummus and souvlaki.
2. BelAir Cantina
BelAir is the place to satisfy those late-night Mexican food cravings, and with four locations spread across Milwaukee, Wauwatosa and soon Oak Creek, you’re unlikely ever to be too far from a barbacoa taco. Their kitchen is open until midnight, so it’s a bit earlier than other offerings, but trust me, it’s worth it.
3. Brick 3 Pizza
(PHOTO: Brick 3 Pizza Facebook)
Who can say no to pizza after a night out? It’s the classic drunchie – that's a drunk munchie for those in the know – and Brick 3 Pizza certainly does it justice. Open Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 a.m. on Old World 3rd Street, the pizza joint offers toppings ranging from cheese and pepperoni to some unique twists on the classics, such as mac 'n' cheese, caprese or meatball pizza.
4. Comet Cafe
(PHOTO: Comet Cafe Facebook)
Sometimes all you need after a long day is a good sandwich. And when you're starving for a sammie, Comet Cafe has got you covered. Open until 2 a.m., Friday through Sunday, Comet dishes up melts, reubens and burgers, as well as entrees and scrumptious appetizers. I have a feeling their duck confit poutine is exactly what you’ll need this Saturday night.
5. Cubanitas
For a twist on the typical post-bar offerings, head to Cubanitas on Milwaukee Street any time before 1 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Cubanitas is a bastion of traditional Cuban fare, such as the classic pressed Cuban sandwich and tamales.
6. The Dogg Haus
(PHOTO: Dogg Haus Facebook)
Sometimes life is all about the simple things, and late-night food is no exception. If all your heart desires is the classic hot dog, be sure to hit up the Dogg Haus to customize your "dogg" however you like with any number of toppings. Also, cheese curds. The best part is it’s open daily from 11 a.m. to 3 a.m.!
7. Jalisco
(PHOTO: Jalisco Facebook)
You're craving Mexican food, but your late night out has somehow turned into a very early morning and you’re nervous nothing will be open at 3:30 a.m. Don't worry; Jalisco has your back. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 a.m., its famously huge burritos will definitely satisfy your craving no matter how late – or early – it is.
8. Ma Fischer's
No late-night dining list would be complete without the inclusion of Ma Fischer’s, the pinnacle of greasy spoon dining on the East Side. Open 24 hours a day and seven days a week, you can get anything from burgers to Greek food, Mexican food to breakfast, or pretty much whatever kind of food your tired and possibly drunken heart desires. So go ahead, eat chicken soup at 6:30 a.m.!
9. Pizza Shuttle
Pizza Shuttle may not offer artisanal, Neapolitan-style pies, but when it’s 3:45 a.m., I’m sure everyone would agree that pizza is pizza. Open until 3 a.m. every weeknight and a whopping 4 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, this Milwaukee institution will always be ready to serve up some hot cheese slices and maybe a couple breadsticks, too.
10. Wicked Hop
If you want to keep the party going into the late hours, but you also want a meal, head over to the Wicked Hop, open until 1 a.m. on Thursday through Saturday. Serving up one of the best Bloody Mary’s in town, you can definitely continue having fun while also chowing down on a changing limited menu ranging from wings to spring rolls to mac 'n' cheese bites and more.
