What started out as a limited time pop-up looks like it’s here to stay, at least for the time being.
PufferFish, the socially distanced Tiki-themed patio bar which launched this summer at Lost Whale, 2151 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., is prepped and ready for the inevitably cooler weather that’s to come.
The tent-covered patio, which has been transformed into a tropical-themed respite, now boasts numerous upgrades, including the addition of extensive patio heaters, making it a pleasant spot to hang out even as the chilly autumnal winds begin to blow.
As for the menu, you can expect well-priced ($9-$13) modern Tiki cocktails including a The Pufferfish with gin, lemon, passion fruit, falernum, Stone Creek collab croissant orgeat and tiki bitters; The Devil’s Workshop, a tropical blast enhanced by browned butter fat washed rum inspired by Idle Hands from the notable Tiki destination 3 Dots & A Dash; along with a Mai Tai, frozen daiquiris and pina coladas and Lost Whale classics like the Harvey Wallbanger and Negroni spritz.
Beer, canned beverages (like White Claw) and spirit-free versions of numerous cocktails are also available.
To promote a safe, socially distanced environment, reservations are required. Options include traditional seating as well as secluded VIP deck accommodations complete with a private fire table and complimentary pours of PufferFish’s rum of the month. You can make your reservation online.
Not going out? No problem. Lost Whale offers cocktail kits which can be purchased online and picked up right in front of the bar. Check out the selection online.
Lost Whale is open Tuesday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to 2:30 a.m.
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.
