Restaurant Guide
Milwaukee has a great food scene with lots of variety, from casual street eats to formal German meals. This section highlights food-centric venues, categorized by how expensive each is, from low ($) to high ($$$). For more information about breweries, cafes, and bars, head to the Social Spaces page.
Features: Brunch, budget friendly, cocktails, gluten free friendly, kid friendly, LGBTQ friendly, open late, POC owned, vegetarian friendly,
$
Alem Ethiopian Village (https://www.alem-ethiopianvillage.com) Ethiopian. Offers a variety of entrées including beef, chicken, and lamb, as well as vegetarian meals. Includes a vegetarian lunch buffet Tuesday-Friday from 11:00am to 2:00pm. (0.4 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, gluten free friendly, kid friendly, POC owned, vegetarian friendly
Ashley’s BBQ BBQ. This Milwaukee staple provides BBQ platters & sandwiches, fried fish, & down-home sides. (2.3 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, POC owned
Conejito’s Place (http://conejitos-place.com) Mexican. Traditional Mexican food, fresh and made from scratch, in a unique atmosphere. Voted #1 for Cheap Eats in Milwaukee by the Shepherd Express. (0.9 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, POC owned
Daddy’s Soul Food and Grille Soul Food. Soul food restaurant where the buffet menu changes daily and features chicken and, depending on the day, barbecued short ribs (Tuesdays and Saturdays), meatloaf (Wednesdays), pork chops (Thursdays), catfish fillets and salmon patties (Fridays). The side dishes rotate and include smoked turkey greens, sweet potatoes, baked mac and cheese, corn, mashed potatoes, rice, spaghetti, baked beans, and black-eyed peas. (2.2 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, POC owned
Ian’s Pizza (https://ianspizza.com/ians-pizza-milwaukee/) Pizza. This beloved pizza shop, which originated in Madison, offers ‘za by the slice and pie with traditional and less-traditional toppings, including mac n’cheese and (in March) reuben, burrito, and jambalaya. Vegetarian and vegan options available by pie and slice; GF by pie. ( 0.8 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Vegetarian friendly, gluten free friendly, budget friendly, kid friendly
Press au Marche (https://www.presswafflesaumarche.com/) Waffles. Features yeasted, Belgian Liège-style waffles, sandwiches, salads, espresso. Open breakfast to 5pm. (0.7 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Brunch, kid friendly
Riverwest Co-op (https://www.riverwestcoop.org/cafe-menu) Vegetarian. Natural goods store attached to a small cafe with eat-in and to-go food options. Meat-free menu with dairy options. (2.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Brunch, gluten free friendly, LGBTQ friendly, vegetarian friendly
Smallpie (https://smallpiemke.com/) American. Sweet pies, savory pies, sandwiches, and salads, plus local ice cream and floats! Affiliated with Honeypie. Multiple Locations (Eastside and Bayview). (2.5 miles/5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: LGBTQ friendly, vegetarian friendly
The Tandem (https://tandemmke.com) Southern. Provides a wide variety of plates--most notably their fried chicken. Offers a full bar along with casual seating on the patio. (1.8 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, POC owned, vegetarian friendly
Urban Beets Cafe and Juicery (https://www.urbanbeetscafe.com/) A local, vegan cafe with plentiful nut-free and gf options, including smoothies, burgers and sandwiches, etc. (0.8 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Gluten free friendly, vegetarian friendly,
Vagabond (https://vagabondmke.com/) Mexican. Features eclectic taco selections and margaritas in a casual, brick-walled space. Wide selection of creative vegetarian tacos. (0.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Gluten free friendly, open late, vegetarian friendly
The Vanguard (https://www.vanguardbar.com/) American. Creative house-made sausages as well as a variety of appetizers and cocktails. Most of their sausage plates and appetizers are available vegetarian/vegan (even the poutine!). (3.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails, open late, vegetarian friendly
$$
Beans and Barley (https://www.beansandbarley.com/) American. Diner-style menu including weekend brunch, soups, sandwiches, burritos and more with many vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options. Attached to a market and deli that sells artisan goods and healthy food options to-go. (2.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Brunch, gluten free friendly, kid friendly, LGBTQ friendly, vegetarian friendly
Beerline Cafe (https://www.beerlinecafe.com/restaurant) Vegetarian. Meat-free menu with dairy options, specializing in sweet and savory crepes but with a wide variety of sandwiches, bowls, and salads on offer. (2 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Brunch, gluten free friendly, vegetarian friendly
Belli’s Bistro and Spirits (https://www.bellismke.com) American. Menu spans sandwiches, salads, Southern dishes, entrée, and steaks. Also features a full bar with bottled beer, wine by both the bottle or glass and signature cocktails like the BelliBlue with pineapple, light rum, vodka and blue curacao along with the Strawbelli Mojito. (2.2 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, POC owned
Blue Bat Kitchen & Tequileria (https://bluebatkitchen.com/) International. Global street food, bowls, and salads as well as over 160 tequila varieties. (0.7 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails, gluten free friendly, vegetarian friendly
Bollywood Grill (http://www.bollywoodgrill.us) East Indian. Offers traditional South Indian cuisine, including a chaat menu (Indian street food) and dosa. Open for lunch and dinner a la carte with many vegetarian and gluten-free options. (0.8 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, gluten free friendly, kid friendly, POC owned, vegetarian friendly
Buck Bradley’s Saloon and Eatery (https://buckbradleys.com/) American. Landmark saloon featuring sandwiches, burgers, and entrees as well as draft beers and cocktails in a comfy, brick interior. (0.3 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Open late
Cafe Benelux (https://cafebenelux.com/) Belgian, European. Belgian beer and gastropub with a wide variety of sandwiches and entrees including many vegetarian and gluten free options. (0.7 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Brunch, gluten free friendly, kid friendly, vegetarian friendly
Cafe Corazon (https://www.corazonmilwaukee.com/) Mexican. Beloved local Mexican restaurant with extensive vegetarian options/sub-ins and a vegan menu, as well as excellent cocktails and brunch. Two locations in the city (one Riverwest and one in Bayview). (3.5 miles/4 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Brunch, cocktails, gluten free friendly, vegetarian friendly
Celesta (https://www.celesta.restaurant/) Vegan. Upscale changing vegan menu featuring fresh ingredients as well as delicious vegan cocktails and desserts. Small space so reservations are recommended for dinner. (2.2 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails, gluten free friendly, vegetarian friendly
Classic Slice (http://classicslice.com/) Italian. Lesbian-owned pizza joint with a wide variety of specialized pies. The vegan pizza comes highly recommended and gluten free options are also available. (4 miles from Convention Center)
Features: LGBTQ friendly, gluten free friendly, vegetarian friendly
Comet Cafe (https://www.thecometcafe.com/) American. Casual cafe and bar with a diner-like menu, including all day breakfast. Vegetarian and meat-centered options are plentiful. Open until 2 am every night of the week. (2 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Brunch, gluten free friendly, kid friendly, open late, vegetarian friendly
County Clare Irish Pub (https://countyclare-inn.com/irish-pub/) Irish fare. This quaint Irish outpost boasts a full bar and a diverse menu that includes several vegetarian and gluten-free options. (1.2 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Gluten free friendly, vegetarian friendly
Crossroads Collective (http://www.crossroadscollectivemke.com/) Milwaukee’s “foodiest food hall” features eight local food artisans and provides a range of food and drink options. Sustainability is important to the Crossroads Collective, which strives to be a zero net waste facility. (2.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Kid friendly
Cubanitas (https://www.getbianchini.com/new-page) Cuban, Latin American. Wisconsin's First Cuban Full Service Restaurant serving traditional Cuban food and drinks. Offers gluten free menus. (0.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, gluten free friendly, open late, POC owned
DanDan (http://dandanmke.com/) American Chinese. Sichuan-inspired small plates, with plenty of vegetarian options. (1.1 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails, vegetarian friendly
The Diplomat (https://www.thediplomatmke.com/menu) New American. An under-appreciated Milwaukee gem, this unassuming bar/restaurant serves a rotating menu of carefully curated local and seasonal fare. (1.4 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails, vegetarian friendly
Doc’s Smokehouse (https://docsbbq.net/pages/milwaukee-bbq-menu) Southern BBQ. Meat-centered cuisine with happy hour specials and a featured local brewery of the month. (0 miles from Convention Center)
Don's Diner & Cocktails (https://www.donsmke.com/) American. A relatively new establishment that pays homage to old Milwaukee, Don’s offers all-day breakfast, generously portioned boozy (and non-boozy) shakes, and specials that include 10-cent lunches Wednesday-Friday from 10-am through 1pm. (1.6 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails, vegetarian friendly
Hamburger Mary’s (https://www.hamburgermarys.com/mke/) American. Restaurant and bar featuring regular drag shows, karaoke, and weekly charity bingo. Limited vegan/vegetarian options available. (1.1 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Brunch, LGBTQ friendly
Heaven’s Table BBQ (https://www.heavenstablebbq.com) BBQ. A BBQ counter with meat smoked over hickory. Brisket, ribs, pork shoulder and Lao sausages are available in combos with sides like grits and fried corn. (2.4 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, POC owned
Honeypie Cafe (https://www.honeypiecafe.com/) American. Upscale Wisconsin diner serving creative comfort food and desserts made from local ingredients. Many entrees can be made gluten free and there are some vegan options (less for brunch). (3.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Brunch, gluten free friendly, LGBTQ friendly, vegetarian friendly
Jewels Caribbean (https://jewelscaribbean.com) Caribbean. Serves the food of St. Lucia and items from Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago. Includes a Creole breakfast of sautted saltfish served with biscuit-like bakes, avocado slices and green fig. (1.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, gluten free friendly, POC owned, vegetarian friendly
Kanpai Izakaya (http://www.kanpaimilwaukee.com) Japanese. Japanese fusion cuisine and sushi. Grab a quick bite for lunch, indulge in one of many happy hour specials, or sit back, relax and enjoy an unparalleled evening of sushi and drinks. (0.9 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, POC owned, vegetarian friendly
The King and I (http://www.kingandirestaurant.com/#anchor-u424) Thai. Casual restaurant featuring a wide variety of gluten free and vegetarian options with an open kitchen and a weekday lunch buffet. (0.2 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Gluten free friendly, vegetarian friendly
Mi Casa Su Café American. Offers salad, seafood, chicken, beef, and even vegan options. Many foods are cooked on the grill and the restaurant is committed to showing that healthy food can taste good. (1.3 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, POC owned, vegetarian friendly
Milwaukee Brat House (https://www.milwaukeebrathouse.com) German. Historic venue with German and Wisconsin fare and local beers. (0.3 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Open late
Milwaukee Safe House (https://www.safe-house.com/) Spy-themed hideaway bar featuring creative cocktails and bar food in a quirky space. Make sure you know the password! (0.4 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails
Mo’s Irish Pub (https://mosirishpub.com/milwaukee/) Irish. Busy downtown pub/sports bar featuring Irish drinks, eats, and live music. (0.2 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Open late
On the Bayou Cajun. Offers a variety of Cajun dishes that range from battered catfish to lamb chops. (1.3 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, POC owned
Rise and Grind Café American. An eatery and market that offers breakfast and lunch. Also provides a full coffee menu and both fruit-based and green smoothies. (2.0 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, POC owned, vegetarian friendly
Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery (https://rockbottom.com/locations/milwaukee) American. Brewpub chain serving house beers and upscale pub food. Gluten free and vegetarian options available. (0.3 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Gluten free friendly, open late, vegetarian friendly
San Giorgio Pizzeria Napoletana (https://sangiorgiopizza.com/#about) Italian. Rustic-chic eatery with an open kitchen serving traditional Italian cuisine including wood-fired Neapolitan pizza, antipasti and more. (0.2 miles from Convention Center)
Screaming Tuna (https://screamingtuna.com/) Sushi. Local favorite for sushi; sustainably sourced. Regularly rated #1 in Milwaukee. (1.0 miles from Convention Center)
Speed Queen BBQ (http://www.speedqueenbbq.com) BBQ. Counter-serve, cash-only spot in no-frills digs serving BBQ fare slathered with a secret sauce. (1.2 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, POC owned
St. Paul Fish Company (https://www.stpaulfish.com/st-paul-fish-company-public-market/) Seafood. This local favorite, located in Milwaukee’s Public Market, offers daily specials, an extensive fish and seafood menu, and one of the city’s best lobster rolls. Ask about the “salmon crack.” (0.6 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Kid friendly
Strangetown (https://www.strangetownmke.com/) Vegan. Hip spot for globally inspired vegan dishes including small and large plates and a large wine and cocktail menu. Recommended for small groups to share plates. (2.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails, gluten free friendly, vegetarian friendly
Swingin’ Door Exchange Saloon and Eatery (https://www.swingindoorexchange.com/menu.php) American. Sandwiches, burgers, Friday fish fry, and eclectic entrees, including several vegetarian options. (0.7 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails, open late, vegetarian friendly
VIEW MKE (https://www.viewmke.com/menu/) New American. Locals know this restaurant with a view as the former Wolf Peach and the beloved former Roots. It currently features locally sourced, frequently changing small plates, including vegetarian options. (1.2 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails, vegetarian friendly
$$$
Amilinda (https://amilinda.com) Spanish & Portuguese. A changing menu featuring seasonal and local ingredients and including meat and (at least one) vegetarian mains. (0.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails, LGBTQ friendly
Benihana (https://www.benihana.com/menu/teppanyakidining/) Japanese. Hibachi chain serving a range of meat dishes grilled table-side. (0.3 miles from Convention Center)
Bistro 333 (https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/wisconsin/hyatt-regency-milwaukee/mkerm/dining) New American. Hyatt Regency’s Dine-in option includes burgers, several meat-based entrees, as well as salads and appetizers. (0 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Open late
Braise (http://www.braiselocalfood.com/) Locavore. Enjoy cocktails, small, and large plates at this locavore restaurant with family-style seating in the main dining room. (1.8 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails
Buckley’s (http://buckleysmilwaukee.com/) Upscale American. Cocktails and eclectic small plates, including vegetarian options and one of Milwaukee’s best lobster rolls. (0.8 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails
Calderone Club (http://www.calderoneclub.net/) Italian. Old-world setting for authentic Italian cuisine including thin-crust pies, handmade pasta, paninis & an extensive wine list. (0.2 miles from Convention Center)
Harbor House (https://www.bartolottas.com/harbor-house) Seafood. Visit this upscale seafood restaurant for happy hour and/or the lakefront view. Take note: While the menu extends beyond seafood, there are no vegetarian options. (1.2 miles from Convention Center)
Mader’s (https://madersrestaurant.com) German. Historic venue offering classic German cuisine, Bavarian decor, and traditionally dressed waitstaff. (0.4 miles from Convention Center)
Mauer’s Urban Market (https://www.yelp.com/biz/maurer-s-urban-market-milwaukee) Grocery. This grocery sells some prepared food and has lots of gluten-free and vegan options, fresh produce, and alcohol. Open 7am-9pm weekdays; 8am-7pm Sat & Sun. (0.8 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Gluten free friendly, vegetarian friendly
Third Coast Provisions/Oak and Oyster (http://www.thirdcoastprovisions.com/) Seafood. Oysters and other seafood specialties and a variety of cocktail selections. Drinks, oysters, and fancy dining upstairs at Third Coast; more casual dining available in the cozy downstairs space known as Oak and Oyster. (0.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails
The Rumpus Room (https://www.bartolottas.com/rumpus-room) American. Relaxed gastropub serving American fare, craft beers & cocktails in classic digs with a tin ceiling. Happy hour food and drink specials and weekday grab and go lunches. (0.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails
Ward’s House of Prime Steakhouse. Regularly rated Milwaukee’s #1 place for prime rib and steak. Ambitious diners can compete to join Ward’s Wall of Fame. Menu includes meat and seafood options plus one vegetarian and one vegan entree. (0.6 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Brunch, budget friendly, cocktails, gluten free friendly, kid friendly, LGBTQ friendly, open late, POC owned, vegetarian friendly,
$
Alem Ethiopian Village (https://www.alem-ethiopianvillage.com) Ethiopian. Offers a variety of entrées including beef, chicken, and lamb, as well as vegetarian meals. Includes a vegetarian lunch buffet Tuesday-Friday from 11:00am to 2:00pm. (0.4 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, gluten free friendly, kid friendly, POC owned, vegetarian friendly
Ashley’s BBQ BBQ. This Milwaukee staple provides BBQ platters & sandwiches, fried fish, & down-home sides. (2.3 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, POC owned
Conejito’s Place (http://conejitos-place.com) Mexican. Traditional Mexican food, fresh and made from scratch, in a unique atmosphere. Voted #1 for Cheap Eats in Milwaukee by the Shepherd Express. (0.9 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, POC owned
Daddy’s Soul Food and Grille Soul Food. Soul food restaurant where the buffet menu changes daily and features chicken and, depending on the day, barbecued short ribs (Tuesdays and Saturdays), meatloaf (Wednesdays), pork chops (Thursdays), catfish fillets and salmon patties (Fridays). The side dishes rotate and include smoked turkey greens, sweet potatoes, baked mac and cheese, corn, mashed potatoes, rice, spaghetti, baked beans, and black-eyed peas. (2.2 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, POC owned
Ian’s Pizza (https://ianspizza.com/ians-pizza-milwaukee/) Pizza. This beloved pizza shop, which originated in Madison, offers ‘za by the slice and pie with traditional and less-traditional toppings, including mac n’cheese and (in March) reuben, burrito, and jambalaya. Vegetarian and vegan options available by pie and slice; GF by pie. ( 0.8 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Vegetarian friendly, gluten free friendly, budget friendly, kid friendly
Press au Marche (https://www.presswafflesaumarche.com/) Waffles. Features yeasted, Belgian Liège-style waffles, sandwiches, salads, espresso. Open breakfast to 5pm. (0.7 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Brunch, kid friendly
Riverwest Co-op (https://www.riverwestcoop.org/cafe-menu) Vegetarian. Natural goods store attached to a small cafe with eat-in and to-go food options. Meat-free menu with dairy options. (2.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Brunch, gluten free friendly, LGBTQ friendly, vegetarian friendly
Smallpie (https://smallpiemke.com/) American. Sweet pies, savory pies, sandwiches, and salads, plus local ice cream and floats! Affiliated with Honeypie. Multiple Locations (Eastside and Bayview). (2.5 miles/5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: LGBTQ friendly, vegetarian friendly
The Tandem (https://tandemmke.com) Southern. Provides a wide variety of plates--most notably their fried chicken. Offers a full bar along with casual seating on the patio. (1.8 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, POC owned, vegetarian friendly
Urban Beets Cafe and Juicery (https://www.urbanbeetscafe.com/) A local, vegan cafe with plentiful nut-free and gf options, including smoothies, burgers and sandwiches, etc. (0.8 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Gluten free friendly, vegetarian friendly,
Vagabond (https://vagabondmke.com/) Mexican. Features eclectic taco selections and margaritas in a casual, brick-walled space. Wide selection of creative vegetarian tacos. (0.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Gluten free friendly, open late, vegetarian friendly
The Vanguard (https://www.vanguardbar.com/) American. Creative house-made sausages as well as a variety of appetizers and cocktails. Most of their sausage plates and appetizers are available vegetarian/vegan (even the poutine!). (3.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails, open late, vegetarian friendly
$$
Beans and Barley (https://www.beansandbarley.com/) American. Diner-style menu including weekend brunch, soups, sandwiches, burritos and more with many vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options. Attached to a market and deli that sells artisan goods and healthy food options to-go. (2.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Brunch, gluten free friendly, kid friendly, LGBTQ friendly, vegetarian friendly
Beerline Cafe (https://www.beerlinecafe.com/restaurant) Vegetarian. Meat-free menu with dairy options, specializing in sweet and savory crepes but with a wide variety of sandwiches, bowls, and salads on offer. (2 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Brunch, gluten free friendly, vegetarian friendly
Belli’s Bistro and Spirits (https://www.bellismke.com) American. Menu spans sandwiches, salads, Southern dishes, entrée, and steaks. Also features a full bar with bottled beer, wine by both the bottle or glass and signature cocktails like the BelliBlue with pineapple, light rum, vodka and blue curacao along with the Strawbelli Mojito. (2.2 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, POC owned
Blue Bat Kitchen & Tequileria (https://bluebatkitchen.com/) International. Global street food, bowls, and salads as well as over 160 tequila varieties. (0.7 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails, gluten free friendly, vegetarian friendly
Bollywood Grill (http://www.bollywoodgrill.us) East Indian. Offers traditional South Indian cuisine, including a chaat menu (Indian street food) and dosa. Open for lunch and dinner a la carte with many vegetarian and gluten-free options. (0.8 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, gluten free friendly, kid friendly, POC owned, vegetarian friendly
Buck Bradley’s Saloon and Eatery (https://buckbradleys.com/) American. Landmark saloon featuring sandwiches, burgers, and entrees as well as draft beers and cocktails in a comfy, brick interior. (0.3 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Open late
Cafe Benelux (https://cafebenelux.com/) Belgian, European. Belgian beer and gastropub with a wide variety of sandwiches and entrees including many vegetarian and gluten free options. (0.7 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Brunch, gluten free friendly, kid friendly, vegetarian friendly
Cafe Corazon (https://www.corazonmilwaukee.com/) Mexican. Beloved local Mexican restaurant with extensive vegetarian options/sub-ins and a vegan menu, as well as excellent cocktails and brunch. Two locations in the city (one Riverwest and one in Bayview). (3.5 miles/4 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Brunch, cocktails, gluten free friendly, vegetarian friendly
Celesta (https://www.celesta.restaurant/) Vegan. Upscale changing vegan menu featuring fresh ingredients as well as delicious vegan cocktails and desserts. Small space so reservations are recommended for dinner. (2.2 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails, gluten free friendly, vegetarian friendly
Classic Slice (http://classicslice.com/) Italian. Lesbian-owned pizza joint with a wide variety of specialized pies. The vegan pizza comes highly recommended and gluten free options are also available. (4 miles from Convention Center)
Features: LGBTQ friendly, gluten free friendly, vegetarian friendly
Comet Cafe (https://www.thecometcafe.com/) American. Casual cafe and bar with a diner-like menu, including all day breakfast. Vegetarian and meat-centered options are plentiful. Open until 2 am every night of the week. (2 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Brunch, gluten free friendly, kid friendly, open late, vegetarian friendly
County Clare Irish Pub (https://countyclare-inn.com/irish-pub/) Irish fare. This quaint Irish outpost boasts a full bar and a diverse menu that includes several vegetarian and gluten-free options. (1.2 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Gluten free friendly, vegetarian friendly
Crossroads Collective (http://www.crossroadscollectivemke.com/) Milwaukee’s “foodiest food hall” features eight local food artisans and provides a range of food and drink options. Sustainability is important to the Crossroads Collective, which strives to be a zero net waste facility. (2.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Kid friendly
Cubanitas (https://www.getbianchini.com/new-page) Cuban, Latin American. Wisconsin's First Cuban Full Service Restaurant serving traditional Cuban food and drinks. Offers gluten free menus. (0.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, gluten free friendly, open late, POC owned
DanDan (http://dandanmke.com/) American Chinese. Sichuan-inspired small plates, with plenty of vegetarian options. (1.1 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails, vegetarian friendly
The Diplomat (https://www.thediplomatmke.com/menu) New American. An under-appreciated Milwaukee gem, this unassuming bar/restaurant serves a rotating menu of carefully curated local and seasonal fare. (1.4 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails, vegetarian friendly
Doc’s Smokehouse (https://docsbbq.net/pages/milwaukee-bbq-menu) Southern BBQ. Meat-centered cuisine with happy hour specials and a featured local brewery of the month. (0 miles from Convention Center)
Don's Diner & Cocktails (https://www.donsmke.com/) American. A relatively new establishment that pays homage to old Milwaukee, Don’s offers all-day breakfast, generously portioned boozy (and non-boozy) shakes, and specials that include 10-cent lunches Wednesday-Friday from 10-am through 1pm. (1.6 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails, vegetarian friendly
Hamburger Mary’s (https://www.hamburgermarys.com/mke/) American. Restaurant and bar featuring regular drag shows, karaoke, and weekly charity bingo. Limited vegan/vegetarian options available. (1.1 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Brunch, LGBTQ friendly
Heaven’s Table BBQ (https://www.heavenstablebbq.com) BBQ. A BBQ counter with meat smoked over hickory. Brisket, ribs, pork shoulder and Lao sausages are available in combos with sides like grits and fried corn. (2.4 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, POC owned
Honeypie Cafe (https://www.honeypiecafe.com/) American. Upscale Wisconsin diner serving creative comfort food and desserts made from local ingredients. Many entrees can be made gluten free and there are some vegan options (less for brunch). (3.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Brunch, gluten free friendly, LGBTQ friendly, vegetarian friendly
Jewels Caribbean (https://jewelscaribbean.com) Caribbean. Serves the food of St. Lucia and items from Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago. Includes a Creole breakfast of sautted saltfish served with biscuit-like bakes, avocado slices and green fig. (1.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, gluten free friendly, POC owned, vegetarian friendly
Kanpai Izakaya (http://www.kanpaimilwaukee.com) Japanese. Japanese fusion cuisine and sushi. Grab a quick bite for lunch, indulge in one of many happy hour specials, or sit back, relax and enjoy an unparalleled evening of sushi and drinks. (0.9 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, POC owned, vegetarian friendly
The King and I (http://www.kingandirestaurant.com/#anchor-u424) Thai. Casual restaurant featuring a wide variety of gluten free and vegetarian options with an open kitchen and a weekday lunch buffet. (0.2 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Gluten free friendly, vegetarian friendly
Mi Casa Su Café American. Offers salad, seafood, chicken, beef, and even vegan options. Many foods are cooked on the grill and the restaurant is committed to showing that healthy food can taste good. (1.3 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, POC owned, vegetarian friendly
Milwaukee Brat House (https://www.milwaukeebrathouse.com) German. Historic venue with German and Wisconsin fare and local beers. (0.3 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Open late
Milwaukee Safe House (https://www.safe-house.com/) Spy-themed hideaway bar featuring creative cocktails and bar food in a quirky space. Make sure you know the password! (0.4 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails
Mo’s Irish Pub (https://mosirishpub.com/milwaukee/) Irish. Busy downtown pub/sports bar featuring Irish drinks, eats, and live music. (0.2 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Open late
On the Bayou Cajun. Offers a variety of Cajun dishes that range from battered catfish to lamb chops. (1.3 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, POC owned
Rise and Grind Café American. An eatery and market that offers breakfast and lunch. Also provides a full coffee menu and both fruit-based and green smoothies. (2.0 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, POC owned, vegetarian friendly
Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery (https://rockbottom.com/locations/milwaukee) American. Brewpub chain serving house beers and upscale pub food. Gluten free and vegetarian options available. (0.3 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Gluten free friendly, open late, vegetarian friendly
San Giorgio Pizzeria Napoletana (https://sangiorgiopizza.com/#about) Italian. Rustic-chic eatery with an open kitchen serving traditional Italian cuisine including wood-fired Neapolitan pizza, antipasti and more. (0.2 miles from Convention Center)
Screaming Tuna (https://screamingtuna.com/) Sushi. Local favorite for sushi; sustainably sourced. Regularly rated #1 in Milwaukee. (1.0 miles from Convention Center)
Speed Queen BBQ (http://www.speedqueenbbq.com) BBQ. Counter-serve, cash-only spot in no-frills digs serving BBQ fare slathered with a secret sauce. (1.2 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Budget friendly, POC owned
St. Paul Fish Company (https://www.stpaulfish.com/st-paul-fish-company-public-market/) Seafood. This local favorite, located in Milwaukee’s Public Market, offers daily specials, an extensive fish and seafood menu, and one of the city’s best lobster rolls. Ask about the “salmon crack.” (0.6 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Kid friendly
Strangetown (https://www.strangetownmke.com/) Vegan. Hip spot for globally inspired vegan dishes including small and large plates and a large wine and cocktail menu. Recommended for small groups to share plates. (2.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails, gluten free friendly, vegetarian friendly
Swingin’ Door Exchange Saloon and Eatery (https://www.swingindoorexchange.com/menu.php) American. Sandwiches, burgers, Friday fish fry, and eclectic entrees, including several vegetarian options. (0.7 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails, open late, vegetarian friendly
VIEW MKE (https://www.viewmke.com/menu/) New American. Locals know this restaurant with a view as the former Wolf Peach and the beloved former Roots. It currently features locally sourced, frequently changing small plates, including vegetarian options. (1.2 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails, vegetarian friendly
$$$
Amilinda (https://amilinda.com) Spanish & Portuguese. A changing menu featuring seasonal and local ingredients and including meat and (at least one) vegetarian mains. (0.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails, LGBTQ friendly
Benihana (https://www.benihana.com/menu/teppanyakidining/) Japanese. Hibachi chain serving a range of meat dishes grilled table-side. (0.3 miles from Convention Center)
Bistro 333 (https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/wisconsin/hyatt-regency-milwaukee/mkerm/dining) New American. Hyatt Regency’s Dine-in option includes burgers, several meat-based entrees, as well as salads and appetizers. (0 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Open late
Braise (http://www.braiselocalfood.com/) Locavore. Enjoy cocktails, small, and large plates at this locavore restaurant with family-style seating in the main dining room. (1.8 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails
Buckley’s (http://buckleysmilwaukee.com/) Upscale American. Cocktails and eclectic small plates, including vegetarian options and one of Milwaukee’s best lobster rolls. (0.8 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails
Calderone Club (http://www.calderoneclub.net/) Italian. Old-world setting for authentic Italian cuisine including thin-crust pies, handmade pasta, paninis & an extensive wine list. (0.2 miles from Convention Center)
Harbor House (https://www.bartolottas.com/harbor-house) Seafood. Visit this upscale seafood restaurant for happy hour and/or the lakefront view. Take note: While the menu extends beyond seafood, there are no vegetarian options. (1.2 miles from Convention Center)
Mader’s (https://madersrestaurant.com) German. Historic venue offering classic German cuisine, Bavarian decor, and traditionally dressed waitstaff. (0.4 miles from Convention Center)
Mauer’s Urban Market (https://www.yelp.com/biz/maurer-s-urban-market-milwaukee) Grocery. This grocery sells some prepared food and has lots of gluten-free and vegan options, fresh produce, and alcohol. Open 7am-9pm weekdays; 8am-7pm Sat & Sun. (0.8 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Gluten free friendly, vegetarian friendly
Third Coast Provisions/Oak and Oyster (http://www.thirdcoastprovisions.com/) Seafood. Oysters and other seafood specialties and a variety of cocktail selections. Drinks, oysters, and fancy dining upstairs at Third Coast; more casual dining available in the cozy downstairs space known as Oak and Oyster. (0.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails
The Rumpus Room (https://www.bartolottas.com/rumpus-room) American. Relaxed gastropub serving American fare, craft beers & cocktails in classic digs with a tin ceiling. Happy hour food and drink specials and weekday grab and go lunches. (0.5 miles from Convention Center)
Features: Cocktails
Ward’s House of Prime Steakhouse. Regularly rated Milwaukee’s #1 place for prime rib and steak. Ambitious diners can compete to join Ward’s Wall of Fame. Menu includes meat and seafood options plus one vegetarian and one vegan entree. (0.6 miles from Convention Center)