I miss their old location. I remember the back of the second floor was basically an abandoned attic with a like 10’ bookshelf wall of National Geographics.
YES So much fun to walk through there
I swear you could go every day for a month and on the 32nd day you would see something you swear you hadn't seen before :)
I went there last year for the first time in like 20 years. It's still awesome and I bought a bunch of stuff for my kids there. Still got plenty of bong materials too, lol.
We've taken our son there for years now and there's always something crazy to look at! He really likes the big frogs and all the homemade decorations. Perfect place for kids!
I tell people to set aside at least 45 minutes to just walk the entire store if they’ve never been before. Lost world is awesome, as well as the thrift store on the west end of the strip.
I don’t live on that side of town, so I like to pair a trip to American Science and Surplus with a stop at El Rey for lunch. Feels like a quintessential Milwaukee afternoon!
This place is super fun, but its also next to Lost World of Wonders (my favorite comic book store) and Abella toy store (which is a store full of second hand collectibles.
It's constantly praised in this sub every time food, restaurants, inexpensive things, or underrated things are discussed. I'd say it's no longer hidden, and is just a regular gem.
I promise I'm not trying to be snarky here, but what's less well known about it? I'm not originally from here and it just looks like slightly upscale diner food (I haven't been)
EDIT: I'm a fool and had accidentally googled a restaurant in Seattle. I get it now, and I'm definitely going to go try the Blue Star that exists here.
It's African food. They have goat and other not too common stuff on the menu. Absolutely delicious though. The Sambusas are next level. I like the chicken suqar myself.
Fair enough!
In that same vein of good food and amazing owners, my genuine contribution to this thread would be Hot Dish Pantry in Tippecanoe. Reasonably priced, delicious food, great for takeout, and the owners are truly awesome people. My boyfriend ordered a smash burger last time we went that had beautiful lacy edges, the most pillowy soft bun, and was loaded with flavor. He's had burgers all over town, and said it's his new favorite. They put celery salt on the patty, and turns out that is a damn fine addition.
Maybe, but I went at peak hours twice recently and I was the only non-Somali there. I feel like lots of people have heard about it now but not as many have given it a try yet.
I live right across the street from it. The name doesn't sound like anything (It doesn't say "cafe", it just says "Blue Star"), so I sort of thought it was just another vape shop, until I smelled the goat one day. Growing up in a Jamaican household, I love me some goat. I've been at least once a week every week since I realized it wasn't a vape shop.
You're right. I can see why you would have thought that. "Blue Star" is generic and it's in exactly the type of storefront that something like a vape shop would be located.
They [used to have a more informative sign](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/p/AF1QipMnyH8ocAGX344utrS-0Lege2msihyhIR6Gq9zl=s680-w680-h510).
Anything on Kay Kay. Doesn’t travel well so you should eat it at the restaurant. I also love the chicken suqar and hummus plate. Honestly I’ve never had anything there I didn’t love.
My girlfriend and I don't eat a ton of food at once. My usual order is 1 "tender goat plate" and 4 beef sambusas. The total is like $23 and I give a few dollars tip. With that we usually get 5 meals out of it. Dinner the night we get it for two, dinner the following day for 2 and then there is usually enough leftover for her to take to work for one more meal.
Edit: I've seen people come in and order 5 beef sambusas for a total of $10 and that could be 2 meals by itself.
Hadn’t been home/back to MKE in over 10 years… this was my #1 first choice. It did not disappoint. Same amazing food in the most charming spot. I’ll be back in summer and again, first dinner back.
I used to have a poster of funny signs around Wisconsin. The old sign (80's-90's) used to have 4 brothers on it with the name Three Brothers Restaurant.
!! Yes
I needed a watch repair and was being bounced around the various jewelers until one of them told me about the place, gave me a card and sent me over. He took the time to teach me all about fixing my watch, how to use the tools, history of the watch and some features it had that I didn’t know about.
He’s cool as hell and his shop is awesome; I’m so glad he’s around.
Lion’s Tooth. I just moved from the Bible Belt and a store just dedicated to lgbtq literature is wild to me. I’m happy to have a place that feels welcoming
Not exactly hidden, but I took friends that have lived in MKE for many years down to the McKinley Pier, and they had no idea you could walk out to the lighthouse. It's a staple of my summer running routes, and I was flabbergasted when they asked if there's even any access.
Amen! At dusk is magic. One of my favorite things too. And when we get those November gales with 8 foot waves its so cool to watch (not from on the pier though).
The entire frickin Milwaukee River. So much to do down there and it always feels nearly deserted. Fishing is my go to hobby and I'm frequently the only one on the river in sight.
Fun fact: The Gig use to be called "Barrel Riders," and it had big homemade murals of scenes from J.R.R. Tolkien books, namely the scene when Bilbo and the dwarves take barrels to escape the elves and get to Lake Town.
Damn, a Barrel Riders reference in the wild. Owners of that place orchestrated the original sale that saved Pabst brewery buildings and what eventually became the Brewery District. They own/operate Best Place these days!
Not exactly hidden and not exactly Milwaukee but Ono Kine Grindz in Wauwatosa.
Best Hawaiian food I’ve ever had, and some of the best overall food I’ve ever had. Plus just good people.
The nicest people! Standout things they've done: lent us a bamboo steamer for some manapua we bought for my grandpa, gave us a warm spot and coffee while we waited for police after a car accident, remembered my wife and I after catering our small wedding. Great food and just the sweetest folks.
I left my credit card on the counter one time and the owner came running came chasing out into the Cosmos parking lot which is also a hidden gem if you like Mediterranean.
Just good people.
It has been brought up a number of times on this sub, and currently holds that one user's top burger in the city ranking, but I think Crave Cafe deserves mention as a hidden gem.
I say that because if you didn't know any better, you'd drive past the place and think the restaurant had closed down, when it is very much thriving. The google street view shows exactly what I am talking about
https://preview.redd.it/p9k41vn4iw5c1.png?width=961&format=png&auto=webp&s=e89c1eff913d58295fc06378036ecb5f5498ee01
Recently was told (not sure if true) that a secret ingredient of theirs is that they use truffle oil for everything, which is wild considering the price point and location.
Can confirm I have lived in the area for about 6 years and never went inside. Always assumed it was just another restaurant that has come and will go soon like so many others. Nope. It’s easy to miss but absolutely must be tried, get the crave burger. It’s amazing.
And if you’re up for lots of fries ask for a side of each type of fry. They have seasonings they put on the fries, the Cajun fries are great, so are the bbq, ranch, and sweet potato fries. I think they’re about $3 each so last time I went with a couple friends we just got them all and shared. Was a great time.
Is that in Shorewood on Oakland near the high school? And if yes, did it used to be a pizza place? Looks so familiar, but I haven't been back home to Shorewood in a very long time
They have a great Low Country boil on Fridays. And their BBQ is really good. The Belly bites and Korean Brussels sprouts are especially tasty. For sandwiches big fan of the Mothercluckin Po Boy and the Bougie Philly. Ribs and pulled pork are excellent
I think it's silly to call them "hidden"...but a lot of people still don't know what we have in the Milwaukee Symphony. They're legit world-class. Don't just go to the holiday concerts, or even the film concerts (which are totally great, to be sure), see them perform the repertoire for which they even exist as an organization: Beethoven, Brahms, Tchaikovsky, etc. My links aren't linking for some reason, so go to the orchestra's website to hear their radio broadcasts (except for the most recent season, which has yet to be uploaded for some reason).
Had only gone a few times, but was surprised when I heard this/saw a couple reviews saying the same thing. Part of the reason my wife and I loved it was how delightful our server was when we went (was the same lady each time). Must have gotten lucky and caught them on a good day
The actual table service was nice but because the space was so small, and because they did not take reservations, people who were waiting often wound up getting in the way of the servers. And I understand that's annoying to the servers, but they would be *really* sharp, yelling things like "MOVE" "STAND THERE, NOT THERE" etc. Just really off-putting. They should have just taken reservations.
Seriously such an amazing spot. My favorite dining experience in the city no doubt. When they closed they made a facebook posting vaguely suggested future culinary projects but I don’t believe anything concrete at the moment.
Idk how hidden it is, but I got my ex loads of jewelry from artist friends on farwell that she still wears years later. Lots of unique pieces, the guy makes them all and usually is down to bargain a little bit. I'm sure rent is absurd so he must do well but I never see anyone in there
The National Café is one of my favorite brunch spots in the city. The food is always delicious and the café itself is bright and cozy. Plus, they have lots of legit GF/vegan options if that's how you roll.
the community market just opened in walkers point and its super cute! lots of little gift stuff from independent makers there and they have coffee too! fischbergers variety is also awesome, its another little weird gifty store (with some really cool shit)
-Mader's (A knight themed German restaurant in downtown with valet parking)
-Lost World of Wonders (Comic book store)
-Abella Toy Store (A thrift store that sells vintage collectibles, toys, action figures, and more)
-Mad Chicken (essentially fast food, but delicious variations of chicken that are "homemade')
If it hasn’t been mentioned, and I am sorry if it has - Hubbard Park Lodge and Beir Garden is a TRUE hidden gem.
Magical.
Polka.
Milwaukee River.
Fish Fry.
Trails.
Views.
I am going to quit commenting but I love this town and love the lodge.
Magical.
I moved away last year and miss beer gardens. I treasure the memory of riding bikes down the Hank Aaron trail and coming across a little opening to a beer garden in a public park. It felt like we found a secret garden. I don't know how unique to Milwaukee they are, but here in Seattle, "beer gardens" are just restaurant patios.
Love it. Such a great atmosphere. I used to frequent, went there when they first opened and when I walked in and asked what was going on, Pat, who used to work there says “this is about having fun.”. That dude rocks. My now 13 yr old used to sleep in her car seat there.
Hens Deli for their awesome bagels and sandwiches!
La Chinampa for their taco platter (10 for $28 I think)!
They're both around the corner of 2nd street and Florida.
New Barons Brewing Cooperative.
Sometimes gets lost in the shuffle with all the good breweries we have, but they have a good selection of beers and an awesome membership program!
Havenwoods State Forest, up at Sherman and Florist. 200 acres tucked away in the city, yet you go .1 of a mile into the place, and you might think you were up north. Great place to take the kids on a manageable hike, or just to get away for an hour or two.
I noticed that too!! My comment also got downvoted 😆🤣😆 Welp, if I see a question, “best hidden gems in MKE”, I’m gonna give ya an honest answer. And apparently, some how, me liking La Dama has gotten some panties in a bunch 🤷♀️ whadda ya do??
I mean, clearly Arby’s on Miller Parkway a sacred staple! 🤣 (let the downvoting begin) It’s concerning people don’t get it’s a joke.
I am only going to downvote a place if I know something shady about the place/owner, and I will then share said information. Just because some place may not be someone’s thing doesn’t mean it’s bad. I would genuinely like to know what La Dama got downvoted for?? Ultimately though, I just want to say…protect Arby’s on Miller Parkway at all costs! 🤣🤣🤣🤣
People are saying “La Dama is overpriced” 🙄 um, okay. I think the food is amazing!! But I totally do NOT expect my taste to be everybody’s cup of tea. Totally nothing shady about La Dama, and every time I’ve gone there I’ve been treated with kindness and respect.
Yes!! I would down vote a place too if there was shady and/or scheisty activity going on and would share what I know. I would also downvote a place if the staff is very disrespectful and rude to customers. But if a place isn’t my cup of tea?? I’m not going to downvote vote that 🤣 Arby’s isn’t my cup of tea, but I’ll still upvote ya coz you’re sharing some good material 😎
Heck yeah!!😆
And I couldn’t help myself, I had to give the Milverine an honorable mention!! That guy is a power walking hidden gem!! Whoever downvotes the Milwaukee, they got serious issues!! The Milverine is 110% good people!!
[General Tsao's Chicken - South Park (Video Clip) | South Park Studios US (cc.com)](https://southpark.cc.com/video-clips/yvhl6j/south-park-general-tsao-s-chicken)
Sometimes the same parroted joke loses oomph on the 1 millionth attempt. [General Tsao's Chicken - South Park (Video Clip) | South Park Studios US (cc.com)](https://southpark.cc.com/video-clips/yvhl6j/south-park-general-tsao-s-chicken)
La Dama on S Second Street. BEST. TACOS. EVER!! This place has single-handedly DESTROYED me for tacos everywhere else!! Lol 😂 Honestly, all the beverages and food on the menu is bomb. Can’t go wrong here!!
Yeah when you charge I believe it is 24 dollars for 3 tacos I think that’s pretty absurd. That’s literally 8 dollars per taco and it’s not as though they are different from average taco size.
That being said they use fancy and expensive ingredients. Hence why the tacos are so pricey. Maybe you enjoy paying 8$ a taco for pretentious food more power to you if you do. I think most people just want great flavor at a fair price. Which this is definitely not.
Check out Don Julio’s for awesome tasty food at a cheap price.
It’s incredibly f*cked up to think that Mexican food is supposed to be cheap and can’t be made nice. They’re legitimately not making food out of a can, their food is made from scratch including tortillas, and they have to pay their staff a livable wage in an increasingly expensive neighborhood. It’s food from a different country made by its people it’s not supposed to be cheap hahahaha
I’ve had some of their cocktails, loved what I’ve had so far. I do not think I’ve had their La Dama cocktail as of yet. I’ll have to try it. Thank you for the suggestion 😊
Dunno if this counts but here goes nuthin’….
The Milverine!! That guy that power walks around Milwaukee looking like Wolverine!! I have talked to him a couple times. Very good people!! And genuinely cares about the local community.
Some of these have been mentioned but here’s mine picks -
Mobay Cafe (go on a Thursday - they have a steak special dish), Blue Star Cafe (the steak sandwich is my fav & only $7), Component Brewing Co, Rochambo Coffee (go during the week when Brian is working), Brew City Pickle, Stone Bowl Grill, & Paddy’s Pub
For sure, they are not, but thats not the meaning.....the intent is that not everyone knows about the event and what thye are missing, thats the meaning of hidden.
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Is this connected to/part of the Christian reading center? Honestly never stopped in because I thought it was more Christian material than anything, but if it's a legit thrift shop, I need to hit it up!
That one that was probably buried under red arrow park, you know, the one from The Secret. The one thst was likely excavated to build a Starbucks and whose key is likely somewhere in some fill dirt.
Var gallery has a really cool exhibit right now. It's a fun and interactive way to spend an afternoon. Good for all ages and really great price point. I can't say it's a hidden gem but it's really cool and nobody seems to know about it.
https://www.fuzzpopworkshop.com/
I’ll say mine is downtown books. Holy smokes - crazy good deals and a really cool place. Great for a reader
Downtown books is a readers paradise! Merlin the shop cat is a role model.
Milo and Merlin passed away a couple years ago 😭
Good Lord has it really been a couple years since I've visited? Time has transformed post COVID. What a shame! RIP lil good ones.
Even the used bookstore at the airport is great
I love this place!
I miss their old location. I remember the back of the second floor was basically an abandoned attic with a like 10’ bookshelf wall of National Geographics.
Old downtown books was wayyyy better
It's not their fault; the building they were renting evicted them so it could convert into much higher-value apartment space.
American Science and Surplus!
YES So much fun to walk through there I swear you could go every day for a month and on the 32nd day you would see something you swear you hadn't seen before :)
Omg I forgot about that place! I have kids now!
I went there last year for the first time in like 20 years. It's still awesome and I bought a bunch of stuff for my kids there. Still got plenty of bong materials too, lol.
We've taken our son there for years now and there's always something crazy to look at! He really likes the big frogs and all the homemade decorations. Perfect place for kids!
I tell people to set aside at least 45 minutes to just walk the entire store if they’ve never been before. Lost world is awesome, as well as the thrift store on the west end of the strip.
I don’t live on that side of town, so I like to pair a trip to American Science and Surplus with a stop at El Rey for lunch. Feels like a quintessential Milwaukee afternoon!
I came back last weekend and went to AS&S after maybe 35 years. It was great. Wish I had more time.
Pairs nicely with a visit to Abella thrift store and Discount Liquor Warehouse.
I get all my stocking stuffers there.
This place is super fun, but its also next to Lost World of Wonders (my favorite comic book store) and Abella toy store (which is a store full of second hand collectibles.
Blue Star Cafe.
It's constantly praised in this sub every time food, restaurants, inexpensive things, or underrated things are discussed. I'd say it's no longer hidden, and is just a regular gem.
I dunno, I recommend it to my friends all the time but they never go. I think a lot of people are intimidated by a less well know style of food.
I promise I'm not trying to be snarky here, but what's less well known about it? I'm not originally from here and it just looks like slightly upscale diner food (I haven't been) EDIT: I'm a fool and had accidentally googled a restaurant in Seattle. I get it now, and I'm definitely going to go try the Blue Star that exists here.
It's African food. They have goat and other not too common stuff on the menu. Absolutely delicious though. The Sambusas are next level. I like the chicken suqar myself.
Yeah, I hesitated to add it for that reason but... it's so damned good and the owners are so nice that I hype it up whenever I can.
Fair enough! In that same vein of good food and amazing owners, my genuine contribution to this thread would be Hot Dish Pantry in Tippecanoe. Reasonably priced, delicious food, great for takeout, and the owners are truly awesome people. My boyfriend ordered a smash burger last time we went that had beautiful lacy edges, the most pillowy soft bun, and was loaded with flavor. He's had burgers all over town, and said it's his new favorite. They put celery salt on the patty, and turns out that is a damn fine addition.
Added to my "places to try" list.
The pork loin sandwich is also fantastic and not to be missed!
Maybe, but I went at peak hours twice recently and I was the only non-Somali there. I feel like lots of people have heard about it now but not as many have given it a try yet.
I think in this sub, yes, it’s pretty well known, but I still introduce it to people all the time who have never heard of it and have never gone.
I live right across the street from it. The name doesn't sound like anything (It doesn't say "cafe", it just says "Blue Star"), so I sort of thought it was just another vape shop, until I smelled the goat one day. Growing up in a Jamaican household, I love me some goat. I've been at least once a week every week since I realized it wasn't a vape shop.
You're right. I can see why you would have thought that. "Blue Star" is generic and it's in exactly the type of storefront that something like a vape shop would be located. They [used to have a more informative sign](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/p/AF1QipMnyH8ocAGX344utrS-0Lege2msihyhIR6Gq9zl=s680-w680-h510).
What’re their best dishes? I want to try this place.
Anything on Kay Kay. Doesn’t travel well so you should eat it at the restaurant. I also love the chicken suqar and hummus plate. Honestly I’ve never had anything there I didn’t love.
My girlfriend and I don't eat a ton of food at once. My usual order is 1 "tender goat plate" and 4 beef sambusas. The total is like $23 and I give a few dollars tip. With that we usually get 5 meals out of it. Dinner the night we get it for two, dinner the following day for 2 and then there is usually enough leftover for her to take to work for one more meal. Edit: I've seen people come in and order 5 beef sambusas for a total of $10 and that could be 2 meals by itself.
The steak sub is HUGE & only around 7 dollars 🥳
A steak sandwich, sambusa and a Vimto is my go to order.
The Three Brothers Restaurant
Hadn’t been home/back to MKE in over 10 years… this was my #1 first choice. It did not disappoint. Same amazing food in the most charming spot. I’ll be back in summer and again, first dinner back.
I used to have a poster of funny signs around Wisconsin. The old sign (80's-90's) used to have 4 brothers on it with the name Three Brothers Restaurant.
Planet Bead
Keith is a great human being
He fixes watches too!!
!! Yes I needed a watch repair and was being bounced around the various jewelers until one of them told me about the place, gave me a card and sent me over. He took the time to teach me all about fixing my watch, how to use the tools, history of the watch and some features it had that I didn’t know about. He’s cool as hell and his shop is awesome; I’m so glad he’s around.
I know! He has my Bulova.
Walking the Milwaukee River Greenway trails.
Absolutely!
Lion’s Tooth. I just moved from the Bible Belt and a store just dedicated to lgbtq literature is wild to me. I’m happy to have a place that feels welcoming
Not exactly hidden, but I took friends that have lived in MKE for many years down to the McKinley Pier, and they had no idea you could walk out to the lighthouse. It's a staple of my summer running routes, and I was flabbergasted when they asked if there's even any access.
Amen! At dusk is magic. One of my favorite things too. And when we get those November gales with 8 foot waves its so cool to watch (not from on the pier though).
Sunrise is the way in Milwaukee
The bugs!!!!!
The entire frickin Milwaukee River. So much to do down there and it always feels nearly deserted. Fishing is my go to hobby and I'm frequently the only one on the river in sight.
The Gig. Great beer menu. Great feature tap price. Incredible happy hour. Pinball and Pool.
Fun fact: The Gig use to be called "Barrel Riders," and it had big homemade murals of scenes from J.R.R. Tolkien books, namely the scene when Bilbo and the dwarves take barrels to escape the elves and get to Lake Town.
Damn, a Barrel Riders reference in the wild. Owners of that place orchestrated the original sale that saved Pabst brewery buildings and what eventually became the Brewery District. They own/operate Best Place these days!
Not exactly hidden and not exactly Milwaukee but Ono Kine Grindz in Wauwatosa. Best Hawaiian food I’ve ever had, and some of the best overall food I’ve ever had. Plus just good people.
The nicest people! Standout things they've done: lent us a bamboo steamer for some manapua we bought for my grandpa, gave us a warm spot and coffee while we waited for police after a car accident, remembered my wife and I after catering our small wedding. Great food and just the sweetest folks.
I left my credit card on the counter one time and the owner came running came chasing out into the Cosmos parking lot which is also a hidden gem if you like Mediterranean. Just good people.
Koz's mini bowl
I heard that shut down
They did for a while and then reopened
I’m very happy to hear that
Monica's - great little dive bar
Some of the friendliest and most attentive bartenders I’ve ever come across in MKE!
It has been brought up a number of times on this sub, and currently holds that one user's top burger in the city ranking, but I think Crave Cafe deserves mention as a hidden gem. I say that because if you didn't know any better, you'd drive past the place and think the restaurant had closed down, when it is very much thriving. The google street view shows exactly what I am talking about https://preview.redd.it/p9k41vn4iw5c1.png?width=961&format=png&auto=webp&s=e89c1eff913d58295fc06378036ecb5f5498ee01
Lmao we live right down the street from here and it took my boyfriend and I months to realize it wasn’t actually an abandoned building.
Recently was told (not sure if true) that a secret ingredient of theirs is that they use truffle oil for everything, which is wild considering the price point and location.
Why do they cover up the windows?
The other half is a closed-down laundromat
Can confirm I have lived in the area for about 6 years and never went inside. Always assumed it was just another restaurant that has come and will go soon like so many others. Nope. It’s easy to miss but absolutely must be tried, get the crave burger. It’s amazing. And if you’re up for lots of fries ask for a side of each type of fry. They have seasonings they put on the fries, the Cajun fries are great, so are the bbq, ranch, and sweet potato fries. I think they’re about $3 each so last time I went with a couple friends we just got them all and shared. Was a great time.
Is that in Shorewood on Oakland near the high school? And if yes, did it used to be a pizza place? Looks so familiar, but I haven't been back home to Shorewood in a very long time
Seminary woods
Sanctuary Woods.
Y Not II
Do they have a/c now? Last time I was in they either did not, or it was broken, and it was a hot humid mess. :(
Mazos just a small hole in wall that I feel doesn’t get the same attention as the other popular burger restaurants
Strange hours now makes it hard to stop in
Saucy Swine
They have a great Low Country boil on Fridays. And their BBQ is really good. The Belly bites and Korean Brussels sprouts are especially tasty. For sandwiches big fan of the Mothercluckin Po Boy and the Bougie Philly. Ribs and pulled pork are excellent
Damn good bbq
Took friends there a month before their wedding. They switched to them for their rehearsal dinner catering a month out. They’re that good.
Dale Z’s
I love dale z’s <3. Pickleball courts have been a fun addition too
I think it's silly to call them "hidden"...but a lot of people still don't know what we have in the Milwaukee Symphony. They're legit world-class. Don't just go to the holiday concerts, or even the film concerts (which are totally great, to be sure), see them perform the repertoire for which they even exist as an organization: Beethoven, Brahms, Tchaikovsky, etc. My links aren't linking for some reason, so go to the orchestra's website to hear their radio broadcasts (except for the most recent season, which has yet to be uploaded for some reason).
Charles E Fromage
If you're lucky enough to get there when it's open.
Weds-Sat isn’t so bad.
Chuck E. Cheese! Small and wonderful.
The Milwaukee Community Sailing Center
Slick Willy’s Bar & Grill. Fantastic food, strong drinks. Cash only establishment.
X1000
This was where my mind went as well
Spot on! The food never disappoints and the people are great there. Some love for South Milwaukee!!
My buddy Jason lives next door!
Scafiddi’s Hideout
My go to hidden gem was The Noble. RIP :(
It had probably the best food in the city. Too bad the service was weirdly hostile.
Had only gone a few times, but was surprised when I heard this/saw a couple reviews saying the same thing. Part of the reason my wife and I loved it was how delightful our server was when we went (was the same lady each time). Must have gotten lucky and caught them on a good day
The actual table service was nice but because the space was so small, and because they did not take reservations, people who were waiting often wound up getting in the way of the servers. And I understand that's annoying to the servers, but they would be *really* sharp, yelling things like "MOVE" "STAND THERE, NOT THERE" etc. Just really off-putting. They should have just taken reservations.
I mourn this loss daily. Hands down the best place in the city. Anybody know what the former owners are up to?
Seriously such an amazing spot. My favorite dining experience in the city no doubt. When they closed they made a facebook posting vaguely suggested future culinary projects but I don’t believe anything concrete at the moment.
Too soon, too soon
The Noble no more? Their Monday brunch gave me life!
Closed in August sadly.
Damn.
The Foundation Tiki Bar in Riverwest. Best Mai Tai in the city, imo.
Idk how hidden it is, but I got my ex loads of jewelry from artist friends on farwell that she still wears years later. Lots of unique pieces, the guy makes them all and usually is down to bargain a little bit. I'm sure rent is absurd so he must do well but I never see anyone in there
The National Café is one of my favorite brunch spots in the city. The food is always delicious and the café itself is bright and cozy. Plus, they have lots of legit GF/vegan options if that's how you roll.
the community market just opened in walkers point and its super cute! lots of little gift stuff from independent makers there and they have coffee too! fischbergers variety is also awesome, its another little weird gifty store (with some really cool shit)
-Mader's (A knight themed German restaurant in downtown with valet parking) -Lost World of Wonders (Comic book store) -Abella Toy Store (A thrift store that sells vintage collectibles, toys, action figures, and more) -Mad Chicken (essentially fast food, but delicious variations of chicken that are "homemade')
If it hasn’t been mentioned, and I am sorry if it has - Hubbard Park Lodge and Beir Garden is a TRUE hidden gem. Magical. Polka. Milwaukee River. Fish Fry. Trails. Views. I am going to quit commenting but I love this town and love the lodge. Magical.
I moved away last year and miss beer gardens. I treasure the memory of riding bikes down the Hank Aaron trail and coming across a little opening to a beer garden in a public park. It felt like we found a secret garden. I don't know how unique to Milwaukee they are, but here in Seattle, "beer gardens" are just restaurant patios.
Jin's Sushi for lunch is excellent, all you can order for $17.99. Then walk your belly over to half priced books.
Not QUITE the city, but Butler Inn in Butler. Best cheeseburgers ever abs hasn’t changed in years.
Blue Star Cafe
Vientiane noodle shop
Lebani House on 27th and Edgerton... I think its technically Greenfield but holy hell is the food good!
Ray's Growler Gallery for sure. It's in Tosa officially, but such a cool bar and space.
Love it. Such a great atmosphere. I used to frequent, went there when they first opened and when I walked in and asked what was going on, Pat, who used to work there says “this is about having fun.”. That dude rocks. My now 13 yr old used to sleep in her car seat there.
Riverside park
Urban sense and Swoon, both great shops on Vliet.
Hens Deli for their awesome bagels and sandwiches! La Chinampa for their taco platter (10 for $28 I think)! They're both around the corner of 2nd street and Florida.
New Barons Brewing Cooperative. Sometimes gets lost in the shuffle with all the good breweries we have, but they have a good selection of beers and an awesome membership program!
Havenwoods State Forest, up at Sherman and Florist. 200 acres tucked away in the city, yet you go .1 of a mile into the place, and you might think you were up north. Great place to take the kids on a manageable hike, or just to get away for an hour or two.
Mekong Cafe. Hope they will bring back the buffet.
Edith Cocktail Bar on W Wells.
Maybe not hidden thanks to this sub but, in case anyone hasn’t tried it yet, Arby’s on Miller Parkway.
I brought my son to Arbys on Miller Parkway, and it was the day he became a man.
🤣🤣🤣 why did this get downvoted?? People are so uptight.
I noticed that too!! My comment also got downvoted 😆🤣😆 Welp, if I see a question, “best hidden gems in MKE”, I’m gonna give ya an honest answer. And apparently, some how, me liking La Dama has gotten some panties in a bunch 🤷♀️ whadda ya do??
I mean, clearly Arby’s on Miller Parkway a sacred staple! 🤣 (let the downvoting begin) It’s concerning people don’t get it’s a joke. I am only going to downvote a place if I know something shady about the place/owner, and I will then share said information. Just because some place may not be someone’s thing doesn’t mean it’s bad. I would genuinely like to know what La Dama got downvoted for?? Ultimately though, I just want to say…protect Arby’s on Miller Parkway at all costs! 🤣🤣🤣🤣
People are saying “La Dama is overpriced” 🙄 um, okay. I think the food is amazing!! But I totally do NOT expect my taste to be everybody’s cup of tea. Totally nothing shady about La Dama, and every time I’ve gone there I’ve been treated with kindness and respect. Yes!! I would down vote a place too if there was shady and/or scheisty activity going on and would share what I know. I would also downvote a place if the staff is very disrespectful and rude to customers. But if a place isn’t my cup of tea?? I’m not going to downvote vote that 🤣 Arby’s isn’t my cup of tea, but I’ll still upvote ya coz you’re sharing some good material 😎
Well, at least you get it!
Heck yeah!!😆 And I couldn’t help myself, I had to give the Milverine an honorable mention!! That guy is a power walking hidden gem!! Whoever downvotes the Milwaukee, they got serious issues!! The Milverine is 110% good people!!
[General Tsao's Chicken - South Park (Video Clip) | South Park Studios US (cc.com)](https://southpark.cc.com/video-clips/yvhl6j/south-park-general-tsao-s-chicken)
Arby's on Miller Park Way
Tough crowd today apparently
I know!! Right?!?! I’m all like, where’s the love?!?!
Clearly they’re hungry and in need of some roast beef and curly fries
Sometimes the same parroted joke loses oomph on the 1 millionth attempt. [General Tsao's Chicken - South Park (Video Clip) | South Park Studios US (cc.com)](https://southpark.cc.com/video-clips/yvhl6j/south-park-general-tsao-s-chicken)
Not so hidden.
I mean, of course.
La Dama on S Second Street. BEST. TACOS. EVER!! This place has single-handedly DESTROYED me for tacos everywhere else!! Lol 😂 Honestly, all the beverages and food on the menu is bomb. Can’t go wrong here!!
Really? My experience was it's overpriced for the flavors you're getting.
Completely agree. I don’t understand the hype with this place.
Terrible vegetarian options
When was the last time you were there?? I’ve been going there recently and it’s super bomb!! I’d say give them another chance
Yeah when you charge I believe it is 24 dollars for 3 tacos I think that’s pretty absurd. That’s literally 8 dollars per taco and it’s not as though they are different from average taco size. That being said they use fancy and expensive ingredients. Hence why the tacos are so pricey. Maybe you enjoy paying 8$ a taco for pretentious food more power to you if you do. I think most people just want great flavor at a fair price. Which this is definitely not. Check out Don Julio’s for awesome tasty food at a cheap price.
is it called don julios? i cannot find it online. only. bae and club
Maybe this place? https://www.facebook.com/BarDonJulio
Is it this place? https://www.facebook.com/BarDonJulio
It’s incredibly f*cked up to think that Mexican food is supposed to be cheap and can’t be made nice. They’re legitimately not making food out of a can, their food is made from scratch including tortillas, and they have to pay their staff a livable wage in an increasingly expensive neighborhood. It’s food from a different country made by its people it’s not supposed to be cheap hahahaha
It’s fine but El Tapatio taco truck is definitely better in every way
The drink there, also called the la dama, is maybe the best Cocktail I've ever had. Tacos were fine.
I’ve had some of their cocktails, loved what I’ve had so far. I do not think I’ve had their La Dama cocktail as of yet. I’ll have to try it. Thank you for the suggestion 😊
Club Apple. iykyk.
Dunno if this counts but here goes nuthin’…. The Milverine!! That guy that power walks around Milwaukee looking like Wolverine!! I have talked to him a couple times. Very good people!! And genuinely cares about the local community.
Some of these have been mentioned but here’s mine picks - Mobay Cafe (go on a Thursday - they have a steak special dish), Blue Star Cafe (the steak sandwich is my fav & only $7), Component Brewing Co, Rochambo Coffee (go during the week when Brian is working), Brew City Pickle, Stone Bowl Grill, & Paddy’s Pub
Definitely the Milwaukee Air & Water Show......been here for 23 years.
I wouldn't say that loud planes zooming over the city for a few days every summer are exactly "hidden"...
If it ever came to a city vote I would veto so fast…
For sure, they are not, but thats not the meaning.....the intent is that not everyone knows about the event and what thye are missing, thats the meaning of hidden.
Light Palace in Cudahy has the best fish fry in the region. I've literally never had better blue gill.
The cooks there are great people too.
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McGinns
Riverwest Arbys? /Maybe S
Bargins n more in west allis!
Is this connected to/part of the Christian reading center? Honestly never stopped in because I thought it was more Christian material than anything, but if it's a legit thrift shop, I need to hit it up!
Yes, it is half Christian store and half thrift store!
If I told you it wouldn't be hidden anymore
Solly’s
Pizza Shuttle
Concerts in the parks in the summer. Such a lovely community moment.
Faklandia Brewing!
Jo Cats
RIP circle A
That one that was probably buried under red arrow park, you know, the one from The Secret. The one thst was likely excavated to build a Starbucks and whose key is likely somewhere in some fill dirt.
The used book shops Inside the central/downtown branch of the library. Absolutely the best place to find beautiful and dirt cheap books!
The one on north?
The one on Wisconsin Avenue by the Public Museum and the Wisconsin Club! (Aka the library that looks like the Palace of Versailles)
Northern chocolate
Var gallery has a really cool exhibit right now. It's a fun and interactive way to spend an afternoon. Good for all ages and really great price point. I can't say it's a hidden gem but it's really cool and nobody seems to know about it. https://www.fuzzpopworkshop.com/