Updated: 12/22/24

The holidays are the perfect time to plan cozy gatherings with family and friends. But all of those things take time and effort.

That’s why the holidays are the perfect time to consider leaving the cooking to someone else. Even better, you can support local restaurants at the same time. This is a list of locally owned and operated restaurants offering something special for the holidays. 

Note: I will be updating the list as needed throughout the season. If your restaurant has a special menu or pick-up offering on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve or New Year's Day, please email me at lori@onmilwaukee.com.

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Dickens Dinners at The Grain Exchange Charles Dickens and Victorian carolers return this holiday season from December 19-21 at The Grain Exchange. Let the magic of this heartwarming evening enchant you and fill your belly in this historic event space in the heart of downtown on the corners of Michigan and Broadway. Enjoy admission to The Grain Exchange—decorated by local designers and florists—and a self-guided tour of both floors of the ballroom. Then follow it up with a traditional four-course English feast and complimentary wine pairing, and a full cash bar. Continue the holiday tradition and invite your entire family and friends to an evening filled with delectable food and holiday spirits. See the menu The Grain Exchange · 225 E Michigan St, Milwaukee

Christmas/holiday offerings

ARIA at Saint Kate
139 E. Kilbourn Ave., (414) 270-4422
ariaatsaintkate.com
ARIA is taking reservations for Christmas Eve dinner on Dec. 24 and Christmas Day dinner on Dec. 25 from 4 to 9 p.m. Enjoy festive offerings inspired by all the comforts of a home-cooked feast with a special Prix Fixe Menu for $79 per person (or choose from ARIA's regular menu. For reservations, guests can visit OpenTable.com. 

Ash Hearth & Bar
Iron Horse Hotel, 500 W. Florida St., (414) 374-4766
theironhorsehotel.com
Ash will welcome guests on Christmas Eve to enjoy an a al carte menu of seasonal festive items from 4 to 8 p.m. View the menu and make your reservations online.

On Christmas Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., guests can enjoy a family-style menu featuring items like braised wagyu short ribs, roasted squab, whipped root vegetables and desserts. View the menu and make your reservations online.

Avli
1818 N. Hubbard St., (414) 395-1300
avli.us 
Avli will be open on Christmas Eve for dinner service. Their full menu will be available. Reservations are required and can be made online.

Bavette La Boucherie
217 N Broadway, (414) 273-3375
bavettelaboucherie.com
Bavette will be open for dining on Dec. 23 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Dec. 24 from 11 a.m.to 2 p.m.

Bavette is also currently taking orders for holiday meats, including beef tenderloin and rib roasts.  They will also be offering some housemade items including: one pound of jumbo shrimp with cocktail sauce and remoulade ($20); Uplands Rush Creek Reserve cheese with dried fig mostarda, pickled pears, smoked almonds, grape must mustard, house crackers; and their house cheese and charcuterie board ($30). Items must be pre-ordered by phone before Dec. 20 with pick up on Dec. 23 or Dec. 24.

Buckatabon Tavern & Supper Club
7700 Harwood Ave, Wauwatosa, (414) 271-7700
thebuckatabon.com
Buckatabon will be open for Christmas Eve brunch on Dec. 24 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. 

Café Benelux
346 N. Broadway, (414) 501-2500
cafebenelux.com
Cafe Benelux will be open for Christmas Eve brunch on Dec. 24 until 3 p.m. 

Café Hollander 
2608 N. Downer Ave., (414) 963-6366
20150 Union St., Brookfield (262) 785-4490
5900 W. Mequon Rd., Mequon, (262) 236-0107
7677 W. State St., Wauwatosa, (414) 475-6771
701 Hilldale Way, Madison, (608) 237-3168
cafehollander.com
Cafe Hollanders will be open for Christmas Eve brunch on Dec. 24 until 3 p.m. 

Centraal Grand Café & Tappery:
2305 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., (414) 755-0378
cafecentraal.com
Cafe Benelux will be open for Christmas Eve brunch on Dec. 24 until 3 p.m. 

Dandan
360 E. Erie St., (414) 488-8036
dandanmke.com
Dandan will be offering their annual take-home Peking Duck Dinner kit. The dinner includes three courses (serves two to three) including wonton soup, duck breast with scallion pancakes and duck leg chow fun. Cost is $120.  Dinners can be pre-ordered online by selecting a pick-up time on Dec. 23 between 2 and 5 p.m.  Available until sold out.

Eldr+Rime
2300 N. Mayfair Rd., Wauwatosa, (414) 867-9200
eldrandrime.com
During the month of December, Eldr + Rime will be offering guests very merry holiday brunch deals including $1 fresh shucked oysters and shrimp; $9 bloody marys and $15 bottomless mimosas (Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.  Brunch will also be available on Dec. 24.

In addition, the restaurant will be offering a special "Roast Beast Plate" featuring fire-roasted prime rib, herbed mashed potatoes, sauteed green beans with onions and au jus (8 ounce cut for $45; 12 ounce cut for $55; and 16 ounce cut for $70).  Roast Beast is available Thursday through Saturday, including during brunch, through the end of December.

Lake Park Bistro
3133 E. Newberry Blvd., (414) 962-6300
bartolottas.com/lake-park-bistro
Bartolotta’s Lake Park Bistro will be open for lunch Wednesday through Friday, December 11 through 13 from 11:30 a.m. through 2:30 p.m.

The restaurant is also taking orders for their popular Bûche de Noël. The classic holiday yule log cake is a long-standing Christmas tradition in France, and is made from classic airy sponge cake, chocolate soak, hot chocolate spiced ganache, vanilla buttercream with meringue mushrooms, and chocolate ganache on the side. Cake orders are available for $85 each, with the optional addition of the Sommelier-recommended J. Dumangin Ratafia Champenois for $65 per bottle. Orders can be placed between November 25 through December 23 with final order pick-up on December 23. Order can be made online or by calling 414-962-6300.

Le Reve Patisserie & Cafe
7610 Harwood Ave., (414) 778-3333
lerevecafe.com
Le Reve will be offering takeaway offerings for the holidays. Options include European cheese platters, charcuterie platters, cocktail shrimp, plateau de fruites de mer, French baguettes, macarons, quiche and more. Orders must be placed by Dec. 14 with pick-up on Dec. 23.  View the offerings and order online.

Lupi & Iris
777 N. Van Buren St.,  (414) 293-9090
lupiandiris.com 
Lupi & Iris will be open for lunch on Christmas Eve (Dec. 24) with service between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made online. 

Mason Street Grill
425 E. Mason St., (414) 298-3131
masonstreetgrill.com
Mason Street Grill will be offering Christmas dinner on Dec. 24 from 4 to 9 p.m. and Dec. 25 from 1 to 8 p.m. Guests can order from the regular menu or a special Christmas Prix Fixe Menu for $81 per person. Private dining rooms are also available for family gatherings, big or small.  Reservations are required and can be made online or by phone.

The Pasta Tree
1503 N. Farwell Ave., (414) 276-8867
pastatreemilwaukee.com
The Pasta Tree will be open for dinner service on New Year's Eve from 4 to 8 p.m. showcasing specials based around the Italian tradition of Feast of Seven Fishes.

The Pfister Hotel
424 E. Wisconsin Ave., (414) 273-8222
thepfisterhotel.com
The Pfister will be offering Christmas Brunch in its ballroom on Dec. 25 from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. View the offerings. Cost is $95 for adults, $35 for children 3-10 years-old and free for children 2 years-old and under (tax and gratuity will be added to all reservations). Reservations (with full pre-payment) are required and can be made online or by phone.  Reservations are refundable if canceled 72 hours prior to the event.

Smoke Shack
332 N. Milwaukee St., (414) 431-1119
smoke-shack.com
Smoke Shack will be offering a menu of smoked meats, sides and desserts to pre-order and pick up for the holidays. View the full menu online.  Orders can be placed online (click on holiday pre-orders) through Dec. 14 with pick-up available on Sunday, Dec. 22 or Monday, Dec. 23.

Story Hill BKC
5100 W. Bluemound Rd., (414) 539-4424
storyhillbkc.com
Normally closed on Mondays, Story Hill BKC will be open for a special pre-holiday brunch on Dec. 23. Their full menu will be available, plus specials. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made online.

Three Brothers
2414 S. St. Clair St., (414) 481-7530
threebrothersmke.com
Three Brothers will be open for full dinner service on Monday, Dec. 23. Reservations are kindly requested. On Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, they will be open for carry-out and the purchase of gift certificates.

Tre Rivali will be open on Christmas Day for their Holiday  Buffet from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The buffet will feature cheese and charcuterie a waffle bar, toasts and spreads, chive and creme fraiche scrambled eggs, prime rib, Tuscan roast pork, Caesar salad,  crispy brussels sprouts, whipped potatoes and more. Cost is $85 per person and $35 for children under the age of 12. Reservations can be made online.

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New Year's Eve/Day offerings

Amilinda
315 E. Wisconsin Ave., (414) 369-3683
amilinda.com
Amilinda will offer a special five-course New Year's Eve prix fixe dinner with seatings at both 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.  Courses include an amuse bouche (Salt Cod Croquette with piri piri aioli and caviar); followed by Chestnut and Herb Soup; Crispy Migas with wild mushrooms, black truffle and poached egg; Squid Ink Vermicelli with saffron aioli, clams and mussels; Iberian Pork Secreto with quince puree, charred baby leeks and sherry gastrique; and Frozen Turron Mousse with dried sour cherries, candied pistachios and chocolate.  Cost is $135 per person with optional beverage pairings for +$35. Reservations can be made online.

ARIA at Saint Kate
139 E. Kilbourn Ave., (414) 270-4422
ariaatsaintkate.com
ARIA will be offering a special prix fixe menu on New Year’s Eve from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Cost is $145 per person  (tax and gratuity are not included). Reservations are required and can be made online. 

Ardent
1751 N. Farwell Ave., (414) 897-7022
ardentmke.com
Ardent will offer a special eight-course New Year's Eve menu developed by Chef Justin Carlisle and the Ardent chefs for $200 per person. Beverage pairings are also available for pre-order or at the time of your reservation for an additional $200 per person. Reservations are required and can be made online

Ash Hearth & Bar
Iron Horse Hotel, 500 W. Florida St., (414) 374-4766
theironhorsehotel.com
Ash will host New Year's Eve dinner with reservations available from 4 to 10 p.m. A special menu will feature items like wagyu tartare, caviar bumps, quail, wild boar tortellini and more. View the menu and make reservations online.

Bacchus
925 E. Wells St., (414) 765-1166
bartolottas.com/bacchus
Bacchus will offer a three-course New Year's Eve menu with optional wine pairings on Dec. 31 with reservations available from 4 p.m. through 10 p.m. Menu selections include dishes like Tuna Crudo with marinated baby bok choy and seaweed salad, sesame crunch, and yuzu ponzu; Charred Wagyu Bavette with smoked sweet potato hash, chipotle cream, and chimichurri; and Chocolate Truffle with a chocolate hazelnut custard, candied kumquats, whipped coffee ganache, toasted sugar meringue, and a dark chocolate sauce. Guests can also add on a la carte caviar service. The cost is $125 per person and reservations are available online.

Bavette La Boucherie
217 N Broadway, (414) 273-3375
bavettelaboucherie.com
Bavette will be open on New Year's Eve offering their full menu. All guests will receive a complimentary glass of sparkling wine.  Reservations can be made online. 

Birch
459 E. Pleasant St., (414) 323-7372
birchonpleasant.com
Birch will offer a five-course celebratory chef's tasting menu on Dec. 31 to ring in the new year.  The feast will begin with canapes (Celery Root Taco & Caviar and Carrot Tartare & Shiso) and commence with five courses including Tuna with citrus and yogurt; Hot-Smoked Steelhead Trout with grilled leeks and pickled mustard seeds; Honey Nut Squash-Filled Pasta with lobster and tarragon; Farm Egg with country ham, trumpet mushrooms, marinated kale; and Wood-Roasted Beef with rolled cabbage. The meal will wine down with housemade sweets including Chocolate Mousse and Cotton Candy. Cost is $145 per person with optional beverage pairings available a la carte. Reservations are required and can be made online.

Didn't make a reservation?  Pepe's NYE Oyster Bar Menu featuring vegetables and dip; chilled East Coast oysters, chilled marinated scallops, grilled oysters, baked clams and Birch Burgers will be available in the bar for walk-ins.

Blue Bat Kitchen & Tequilaria
249 N Water St., (414) 431-1133
bluebatkitchen.com
Blue Bat will be open on New Year’s Eve offering riverfront views and specials like Shrimp Scampi (lightly battered pan-fried shrimp, garlic, fresh basil, tomato, lemon cream sauce and linguine pasta, $24.95) and the Starry Night cocktail (Blue Curacao, Tequilla Ocho Plato, Agave, lime and Edible Glitter, $14).  Reservations highly recommended. Make yours online.

Braise Restaurant
1101 S. 2nd St., (414) 212-8843
braiselocalfood.com
Braise is taking reservations for their four-course New Year's Eve prix fixe menu featuring choice of: Celery Root and Mushroom Ragout Tart OR Coriander Roasted Carrots; Duck Confit Empanada OR Ricotta Gnocchi; Harissa Stewed Squash OR Seared Scallop or Beef Tenderloin; and Strawberry Chocolate Entremet or Coconut Peach Blossom Panna Cotta. Cost is $85 per person.  Reservations are required and can be made online.

The Bridgewater Modern Grill
2011 S. 1st St., (414) 299-6556
bridgewatermke.com
The Bridgewater will be open on New Year’s Eve offering live music from Marr'Lo Parada starting at 6 p.m. and a variety of specials including Ahi Tuna Steak (oak-fired, miso aioli, petite greens and shoyu vinaigrette, $45) and Waygu New York Strip (confit potato, bordelaise sauce and black truffle, $78).  Beverage specials include bubbles by the glass (or bottle) including Moët Impérial Nv Champagne Brut Epernay, France ($25/$140); Dom Perignon 2013 Champange, France ($85/$495); Veuve Clicquot Brut Nv Champagne, France ($22/$130) and Lilbert-Fils Blanc De Blancs Brut Nv Champagne, France ($21/$125). Reservations are required. Make yours online.

Ca'Lucchenzo
6030 W. North Ave., (414) 312-8968
calucchenzo.com
Ca'Lucchenzo will offer a seasonal five-course prix fixe menu for New Year's Eve, starting at $105 per person (includes five-course prix fixe, ala carte beverages). Beverage pairing packages are available for an additional charge. Reservations can be made online. Note: Substitutions will be available for most allergies if at least 96 hours notice is given, please let us know of any dietary restrictions when making your reservation.

Carnevor Steakhouse Moderne
718 N. Milwaukee St., (414) 223-2200
carnevor.com
Carnevor will be open for dinner on New Year's Eve featuring their full menu of steaks, seafood, craft cocktails and notable wine offerings from 5 to 11 p.m. Reservations are required and can be made online.

Central Standard Crafthouse & Kitchen
320 E. Clybourn St., (414) 455-8870
thecentralstandard.com
Central Standard will be ringing in the New Year with a Steakhouse Pop-Up featuring dishes by Chef David Sapp and classic cocktails. The pop-up will take place on Monday, Dec. 30 and Tuesday, Dec. 31 between 5 and 9:30 p.m.  The menu will feature starters like Maryland crab cakes, shrimp cocktail, tenderloin tartare and a variety of soups and salads. Mains will include 8-ounce Angus Filet Mignon ($34); 14-ounce Dry Aged New York Strip ($32); 16-ounce Prime Ribeye ($38) along with options like Berkshire Pork Tenderloin ($28); Chicken Picatta ($25); and White Sea Bass with tomato, garlic and parsley ($27).  Sides will include crispy brussels sprouts, whipped potatoes, asparagus, green beans and more.  View the full menu online, then make your reservation here.

The Commodore – A Bartolotta Restaurant 
1807 Nagawicka Rd., Hartland, (262) 563-8070
bartolottas.com/commodore
The Commodore will offer a four-course menu from 4 p.m. through 10 p.m. This menu starts at $125 per person. View the full menu and make your reservations online.

Crawdaddy's on Greenfield
9427 W. Greenfield Ave., (414) 778-2228
crawdaddysccb.com
Crawdaddy's will be open from 4 to 9 p.m. on New Year's Eve serving a special dinner menu including dishes like stuffed chicken gumbo; braised short ribs; dry fruit crusted cod; and black seafood risotto. Reservations can be made online.

Dandan
360 E. Erie St., (414) 488-8036
dandanmke.com
Dandan will be offering their annual Dim Sum Brunch on New Year's Day from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Grab your chopsticks and ring in the new year with fantastic dim sum dishes. Reservations are required and can be made online (just choose Jan. 1 and a time between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.).

The Diplomat
815 E. Brady St., (414) 800-5816
thediplomatmke.com
Chef Dane Baldwin of The Diplomat will offer a special five-course dinner with optional wine pairings to close out the year.  The menu will feature Lobster Bisque; Apple Salad; Whey Risotto (soft egg yolk, mushroom duxelles, grilled mizuna, saba); New York Strip (black truffle, celeriac and leek puree) and Doughnuts (poached pear butter, creme fraiche). Cost is $110 per person (with an additional charge for pairings). Reservations are required and can be made online.

The Edison
322 N. Broadway, (414) 269-6306
edisonmke.com
The Edison will be offering a variety of specials on New Year's Eve. Entree offerings include Lobster Bisque with tarragon creme fraiche ($14); Fresh Oysters (3 East Coast, 3 West coast, champagne mignonette, horseradish and cocktail sauce, $21); New Year’s Surf and Turf  (coal-fired 8-ounce New York strip, 4-ounce North Atlantic premium lobster tail, bearnaise sauce and creamed spinach, $65) and Beef Wellington (prosciutto, mushroom duxelles, broccolini and bordelaise sauce, $72). Special desserts include Tiramisu ($12) and Red Velvet Cake ($12). Reservations are required. Make yours online.

Eldr+Rime
2300 N. Mayfair Rd., Wauwatosa, (414) 867-9200
eldrandrime.com
For New Year's Eve, Chef David Cook will be offering a tasting menu inspired by a Night in Morocco. Highlights include a Lamb Tagine, Scallops with Saffron Couscous, and Pistachio Baklava. Cost is $135 per person (plus tax and gratuity). Guests can also order from the regular dinner menu from 4 to 11 p.m.  Reservations can be made online.

EsterEv
2165 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., (414) 312-8606
esterev.com
Celebrate the dawn of a new year with an indulgent 10-course dinner at EsterEv with Chef Dan Jacobs, available Dec. 28, 29, 30 and 31. Celebratory courses will include features like crab, veal tartare, lobster, beef Wellington, and bouche de noel. Cost is $125 per person for 10 courses. Beverage pairings can be added for +$65. Reservations are required and can be made online.

Goodkind
2457 S. Wentworth Ave., (414) 763-4706
goodkindbayview.com
Goodkind will be open for dinner service on New Year's Eve from 5 to 10 p.m. with accommodations for parties up to six guests. Reservations are required and can be made online. Please note: a $10 deposit per person is required.

If you've missed Goodkind's weekend brunch, you'll be delighted to know that they will also be open on Wednesday, Jan. 1 for a very special New Year's Day brunch.  Reservations are required and can be made for parties up to six guests. Make yours online. Please note: a $10 deposit per person is required.

Harbor House
550 N. Harbor Dr., (414) 395-4900
bartolottas.com/harbor-house
Harbor House will offer a three-course dinner available between 4 p.m. through 10 p.m. with menu selections such as Oysters & Caviar with four baked oysters, warm Champagne cream, and Ossetra caviar; Filet Mignon with Yukon potato purée, green beans, and Béarnaise sauce; and Espresso Crème Brûlée with caramelized custard and chocolate espresso beans. Cost is $125 per person. View the full menu and make your reservations online

Hubbard Park Lodge
3565 N. Morris Blvd., Shorewood, (414) 273-8300
hubbardparklodge.com
Hubbard Park Lodge will be open on New Year's Eve for dinner service inside or in their heated domes offering a menu of specialty drinks and shareable food platters from 4 to 11 p.m.  Reservations can be made online.

Il Cervo
420 W. Juneau Ave., (414) 279-6660
ilcervorestaurant.com
Il Cervo will be featuring a special five-course prix fixe menu for New Year's Eve with seatings from 4 to 11 p.m. The menu will feature house-made cheeses and pastas, courses of seafood and beef and four sweet desserts from which to choose including Italian Wedding Cake. Guests will also have a view of Milwaukee’s stunning fireworks from the rooftop. Reservations are required and can be made online.

Joey Gerard's – A Bartolotta Supper Club
5601 Broad St, Greendale, (414) 858-1900
bartolottas.com/joey-gerards
Joey Gerard's will offer an a la carte menu available between 4 p.m. through 10 p.m. Price is based on choice of entrée. View the full menu and make your reservations online.

Bartolotta's Lake Park Bistro
3133 E. Newberry Blvd., (414) 962-6300
bartolottas.com/lake-park-bistro
Lake Park Bistro will serve a customizable four-course New Year's Eve menu available between 4 p.m. through 10 p.m. Dishes will include Pan-Seared Foie Gras with gingerbread, prunes, Armagnac cream sauce and fried sage; Cream Mushroom Soup with Maderia wine, celery root, leek, porcini mushroom Matignon, crème fraiche, and chives; Young Chicken layered with black truffle and butter served with braised butter carrots, potato, and turnip galette, with a black truffle cognac cream sauce; and Baked Caramel Custard with spiced Chantilly cream, gingerbread crumble, and vanilla poached apples. This menu is $125 per person. View the full menu and make your reservations online.

Le Reve Patisserie & Cafe
7610 Harwood Ave., (414) 778-3333
lerevecafe.com
Le Reve will be offering a special prix fixe New Year's Eve menu on Dec. 31 from 5 to 10 p.m.  Reservations are required and can be made online.

Lupi & Iris
777 N. Van Buren St.,  (414) 293-9090
lupiandiris.com 
Lupi & Iris will offer prix fixe menus for both lunch and dinner on New Year's Eve. Three-course lunches start at $50 per person, plus tax and service charge; reservations can be made between 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.  Early three-course dinner  reservations between (5 and 5:30 p.m. ONLY) start $100 per person, plus tax and service charge.  Meanwhile, a four-course prix fixe dinner will be available 5:30 to 9:45 p.m. for $150 per person, plus tax and service charge. The Anthony Deutsch Trio will perform live on New Years Eve from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.  Reservations are required and can be made online.

Mason Street Grill
425 E. Mason St., (414) 298-3131
masonstreetgrill.com
Mason Street Grill will be open on New Year's Eve offering their full menu along with a special New Year's Eve Prix Fixe Menu for $125 per person. View the menu and make reservations online.

Morel 
430 S 2nd St., (414) 897-0747
morelmke.com
Morel will be open for dinner service on New Year's Eve with reservations beginning at 5 p.m. Accomodations are available for groups up to 12 persons. Make your reservation online. 

Mr. B's  - A Bartolotta Steakhouse
18380 W. Capitol Dr., Brookfield, (262)  790-7005
bartolottas.com/mr-b-s-steakhouse/brookfield
On New Year's Eve, Mr. B's in Brookfield will feature a special la carte menu available 4 p.m. through 10 p.m. including selections such as Black Truffle Arancini with truffle crème fraîche, shaved pecorino and micro thyme; a selection of classic chops and steaks with optional toppings, sauces, and sides; and a Schaum Torte with light meringue, vanilla gelato, Chantilly cream and macerated berries. Reservations and further details are available online.

Mr. B's  - A Bartolotta Steakhouse
11120 N. Cedarburg Rd., Mequon. 
bartolottas.com/mr-b-s-steakhouse/mequon
On New Year's Eve, Mr. B’s in Mequon will offer a la carte specials in addition to most of the full dinner menu available 4 p.m. through 10 p.m. Specials include selections such as Oysters Rockefeller with creamed spinach, bacon, garlic breadcrumbs and Pernod; a selection of classic chops and steaks with optional toppings, sauces, and sides; and a Chocolate Entremet with chocolate cake, passion fruit jam, white chocolate mousse, and a Macadamia nut crumble. Reservations and further details are available online.

Onesto
221 N. Broadway, (414) 308-1600
onestomke.com
Onesto will be open on New Year’s Eve, offering specials including Colossal Shrimp Cocktail with horseradish foam, Calabrian cocktail sauce ($20); Seafood Gnocchi featuring lobster, rock shrimp, bay scallops and fennel cream sauce ($35); Veal Osso Buccon with charred scallion polenta, crispy carrot ribbons ($50); and 24k Gold Cannoli with a dark chocolate tulle, pistachio cream, white chocolate glaze and gold leaf ($14).  Celebratory drinks will also be available. Reservations are required. Make yours online.

The Pasta Tree
1503 N. Farwell Ave., (414) 276-8867
pastatreemilwaukee.com
The Pasta Tree will be open on New Year's Eve beginning at 11 a.m. Reservations are required and can be made online.

Pilot Project
1128 N. 9th St., (414) 395-1070
pilotprojectbrewing.com/milwaukee
Pilot Project will be celebrating the dawn of the new year by launching its very first brunch service on Jan. 1, 2025 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Guests can be among the first to try brunch dishes like Candied Bacon Benedict (poached eggs, candied sriracha pulled bacon, toasted foccacia, and pasilla chile hollandaise);  Creme Brulee French Toast (thick cut, custard-dipped sourdough bread, caramelized sugar topping, smoky maple syrup, and kombucha fruit compote); and Wild Mushroom Hash (roasted wild mushrooms, house potatoes, vegan scrambled eggs, chives, and diced root vegetables).  Guests can also toast to the new year with bottomless mimosas ($30 for two hours) featuring a flight of juices including grapefruit, cranberry, orange and pineapple. A Bloody Mary Bar will also be available featuring a variety of mixes, add-ins and garnishes. Reservations are required and can be made online.

Note: Beginning Jan. 5, Pilot Project will be hosting brunch every Sunday from 1o a.m. to 3 p.m.

Ristorante Bartolotta dal 1993
7616 W. State St., Wauwatosa, (414) 771-7910
bartolottas.com/ristorante-bartolotta
On New Year's Eve, Ristorante Bartolotta will offer a four-course customizable menu for $125 per person. Select menu items include Butternut Squash Soup with winter spices; Pecorino-Filled Ravioli with buttermilk-saffron sauce; Barolo Wine-Braised Beef with creamy polenta; and Chilled Espresso Panna Cotta. Optional Alba white truffle enhancements are also available. Reservations and further details are available online.

Saffron Modern Indian Dining
223 N. Water St., (414) 539-4980
saffronmke.com
Saffron is inviting guests to kick off the new year with a very special New Year's Eve dinner, a live DJ and a midnight toast. A three-course menu featuring canapes, a choice of one small plate (including choices like ajwain chicken tikka, jackfruit tart or crispy cauliflower), one entree (including options like truffle morel lamb korma, shrimp alleppy curry or paneer lababdar) and dessert (shahi tudka or chocolate cannoli) is available for $65 per person. An a la carte menu will also be available. Dinner reservations are available 5-11 p.m. and can be made online.

Story Hill BKC
5100 W. Bluemound Rd., (414) 539-4424
storyhillbkc.com
Story Hill BKC will be open for brunch on New Year's Day. Start off the year with top-notch mimosas, bloody marys and a variety of brunch specials. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made online.

Three Brothers
2414 S. St. Clair St., (414) 481-7530
threebrothersmke.com
Three Brothers will be open for full dinner service on New Year's Eve. Their full menu will be available as well as dinner and dessert specials. Reservations are requested and can be made by phone.

Twisted Fisherman
1200 W Canal St., (414) 384-2722
twistedfisherman.com
Twisted Fisherman will be open on New Year's Eve from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.  Their full menu will be available, as well as their special Winter Menu. Heated Domes will also be available for rental. Reservations can be made online.

The Wolf 
600 N. Broadway, (414) 935-2076
broadwaywolf.com
The Wolf will be offering a special New Year's Eve prix fixe menu from Chef Kristen Schwab and her team. The evening will begin with a glass of Cava followed by courses including Bread & Butter (housemade pumpkin roll, Sarvecchio Parmesan); Salmon Crudo (green apple leche de tigre, radish, serrano, wonton crisp); Crab Stuffed Pasta (crab carmelle, celeriac cream, trout roe); Coulotte Steak (dauphinoise potato, black garlic cream, mizuna, black truffle); Thai Tea Tiramasu (black tea ladyfingers, Thai tea marscapone, condensed milk whip, cocoa expresso powder).  Cost is $115 per person; optional drink pairings are also available. Reservations are required and can be made online.