It’s as important as ever to support the amazing collection of local restaurants that we have in our beautiful city. And there’s no better way to do so than committing to patronize them throughout the year. To guide you on your journey, I’ve composed a list of 52 amazing restaurants. Try just one of these every week and you’ll have visited them all by the end of 2024. View the full list OR download an abbreviated printable PDF file for your fridge or wallet.
The National Cafe
839 W. National Ave., (414) 431-6551
nationalcafemke.com
Breakfast, Lunch
$-$$
[Read more]
Cozy neighborhood vibes are what you’ll find at The National Cafe, a longtime favorite of mine for late breakfast, lunch or weekend brunch. Cozy quarters and friendly service are part of the draw, but its comforting menu seals the deal.
Highlights include stellar breakfast sandwiches, available on croissants or toasted sourdough; the Full English breakfast complete with eggs, bacon, bangers and mushrooms; and the potato chorizo burrito, a grilled burrito stuffed with all the goods, from potatoes and onions to black bean dip and cheddar cheese and then smothered in salsa verde and topped with sunny-side eggs and pico de gallo.
You’ll also find classic offerings like the Turkey Bacon Brie sandwich alongside vegan options like the tasty Chorizo Joe. In the end, there’s a little something for everyone at this little Walker’s Point gem.
Recommended: Huevos rancheros; breakfast burritos; the Hot Mess (weekends only)
As a passionate champion of the local dining scene, Lori has reimagined the restaurant critic's role into that of a trusted dining concierge, guiding food lovers to delightful culinary discoveries and memorable experiences.
Lori is an avid cook whose accrual of condiments and spices is rivaled only by her cookbook collection. Her passion for the culinary industry was birthed while balancing A&W root beer mugs as a teenage carhop, fed by insatiable curiosity and fueled by the people whose stories entwine with every dish. Lori is the author of two books: the "Wisconsin Field to Fork" cookbook and "Milwaukee Food". Her work has garnered journalism awards from entities including the Milwaukee Press Club. In 2024, Lori was honored with a "Top 20 Women in Hospitality to Watch" award by the Wisconsin Restaurant Association.
When she’s not eating, photographing food, writing or planning for TV and radio spots, you’ll find Lori seeking out adventures with her husband Paul, traveling, cooking, reading, learning, snuggling with her cats and looking for ways to make a difference.
.jpeg)
