For a city its size, Milwaukee can more than hold its own when it comes to outstanding cuisine and activities. From elegant restaurants to little holes in the wall, you'd be hard-pressed to run out of dining options in Brew City. But for the most romantic escapes, check out these gems that are perfect for a night out.
Valentine's Day Dining
Ardent
1751 N. Farwell Ave., (414) 897-7022
ardentmke.com
The intimate space blends the earthy with the contemporary, reflecting Ardent's approach to cuisine. The mood evokes both comfort and casual, which complements the simplicity of the ingredients and accommodates intimate conversation – especially important for Valentine's Day. Celebrate Valentine's Day at Ardent with a tasting menu and fine beverages, beginning at 5:30 on Feb. 14. Tickets are $100 each.
Bacchus
925 E. Wells St., (414) 765-1166
bacchusmke.com
A Bartolotta restaurant, Bacchus is a sleek and stylish space inside the historic Cudahy Tower. Fine dining at its most exquisite with an emphasis on seafood, handmade pastas and meats. Also, an amazing wine list.
Balzac
1716 N. Arlington Pl., (414) 755-0099
balzacwinebar.com
This Brady Street restaurant specializes in tapas and an impressive selection of wine in a dimly lit, comfortable and intimate environment. The mood here is mellow, and the staff is friendly and extremely helpful should you or your date have any questions about the five-page wine list.
Bella Italiana
1721 W Canal St., (414) 847-7626
paysbig.com/dining
Located in Potawatomi Hotel & Casino, this Italian restaurant is offering a special menu on Feb. 14, for $65 per couple. The menu will feature 20 ounce "sweetheart-cut" ribeye steak to share, truffle mashed potatoes and broccolini, gelato trio and one glass of wine per person. The Bella Italiana "Sweetheart Special" is available while supplies last and no reservations are being taken that night.
Blu Lounge
The Pfister Hotel, 424 E. Wisconsin Ave., (414) 298-3196
blumilwaukee.com
With views from the 23rd floor, the ambiance of this nighttime view of downtown Milwaukee and Lake Michigan is unmatched. Call and make your reservations before they fill up!
Braise
1101 S. 2nd St., (414) 212-8843
braiselocalfood.com
Braise -- long known for its ever-changing menu of globally-inspired specialties made with fresh local ingredients -- is a perfect spot for budding local love. Bring that special someone for dinner and savor a truly passionate meal.
The Brown Bottle
221 W. Galena St., (414) 539-6450
brownbottlemke.com
If looking for something cozy and inviting, stop in to this Milwaukee favorite serving old world pub fare with a fresh, contemporary flair.
Buckley's
801 N. Cass St., (414) 277-1111
buckleysmilwaukee.com
Buckley's, on the Lower East Side, is one of the most intimate restaurants around Downtown. The food is better than ever and the neighborhood is perfect for an after-dinner stroll, if the weather cooperates.
Café Corazon
3129 N. Bremen St., (414) 810-3941
corazonmilwaukee.com
Follow your heart to Riverwest's own heart, Cafe Corazon. The restaurant specializes in caliente Latin cuisine and uses fresh, local ingredients to enhance its already delicious lunch, dinner and dessert fare. It's vegetarian-friendly, too.
The Capital Grille
310 W. Wisconsin Ave., (414) 223-0600
thecapitalgrille.com
The chance to wine, dine and dazzle your date with fancy food and a romantic atmosphere is finally here. Your Valentine's Day weekend will be memorable when you join The Capital Grille for fine dining and world-class wine. They'll be delighted to have you – so make your reservation now!
Carnevor
718 N. Milwaukee St., (414) 223-2200
carnevor.com
Valentine's Day is right around the corner, so why not join the staff at Carnevor for a night of romantic dinners, craft cocktails and live music? One of Wisconsin’s most acclaimed dining destinations, it’s the perfect place to dazzle your date.
Casablanca on Brady
728 E. Brady St., (414) 271-6000
casablancaonbrady.com
Casablanca on Brady offers fine Middle Eastern cuisine, a full bar that is as stunning as it is delicious, mood lighting and – get this – belly dancing on Friday nights. What's more romantic than that?
Centro Cafe
808 E. Center St., (414) 455-3751
centrocaferiverwest.com
This small, intimate Italian restaurant, located in the heart of Riverwest, is perfect for couples looking for a delicious dinner.
Company Brewing
735 E. Center St., (414) 930-0909
companybrewing.com
Company Brewing's superlative kitchen staff has created the perfect menu for a Wisconsin Valentine’s Day. Try the "Impossible Burger," and pair it with one of Company Brewing’s signature beers.
Devon Seafood and Steak
5715 N. Bayshore Dr., Glendale, (414) 967-9790
devonseafood.com
Join Devon Seafood and Steak for a wonderful Valentine's Day dinner, and you have all weekend to do so! Nestled at the heart of Milwaukee’s North Shore, everything is cooked over an open fire for steak and seafood that’s to die for.
Don's Diner & Cocktails
1100 S. 1st St., (414) 808-0805
donsmke.com
This year for Valentine's Day, Don's Diner is turning the kitchen over to the Mrs. for an Italian feast like no other. Philomena's Kitchen will offer a ten-item Italian menu paired with Italian wines and tiramisu for dessert.
Dream Dance Steak
1721 W. Canal St., (414) 847-7883
paysbig.com/dining/dreamdance
Located in Potawatomi Hotel & Casino, Dream Dance Steak delivers contemporary romantic dining with inventive appetizers, top quality steaks and seafood options and luscious desserts.
Eddie Martini's
8612 W. Watertown Plank Rd., (414) 771-6680
eddiemartinis.com
A 1940s-style steakhouse with a modern flair has worked like a charm at an area restaurant that's been a perennial favorite for years. Great food, wine and the sounds of Sinatra are a winning combination.
Firefly Urban Bar & Grill
7754 Harwood Ave., Wauwatosa, (414) 431-1444
firefly-grill.com
Located in the heart of Tosa Village, Firefly has a warm, low-lit dining room at the front that serves upscale comfort food and a dark bar in back that's perfect for a quiet interlude.
Fleming's Steakhouse
15665 W. Bluemound Rd., (262) 782-9463
flemingssteakhouse.com
Enjoy some of Brookfield’s finest at Fleming's this Valentine’s Day! Chef Luis’ features include Braised Short Ribs, Thai Stuffed Shrimp and Seared Scallops.
Harbor House
550 N. Harbor Dr., (414) 395-4900
harborhousemke.com
Seafood is an aphrodisiac and the clean lines, attentive service and perhaps the most stunning view in Milwaukee only enhance the effect.
Hotel Madrid
600 S. 6th St., (414) 488-9146
hotelmadridmke.com
On the evening of love, Hotel Madrid will be serving up surf and turf entrees and shared cocktails... because, well, love is all about sharing. And because chocolate is the ultimate aphrodisiac, there will also be housemade mini chocolate cakes to end the night on a sweet note.
Hubbard Park Lodge
3565 N. Morris Blvd., Shorewood, (414) 273-8300
valentinesdaymilwaukee.com
The Hubbard Park Lodge will be serving an incredible five course menu Valentine's night for $35 per person. If you miss it you can nosh on a Valentine's day brunch from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Irie Zulu
7237 W. North Ave., Wauwatosa, (414) 509-6014
iriezulu.com
Love is sweet, and they surely understand that at Irie Zulu! A perfect blend between two people can only be celebrated between a perfect blend between Caribbean and African cuisine.
Jake's Restaurant
21445 W. Gumina Rd., Pewaukee, (262) 781-7995
jakes-restaurant.com
Spend your Valentine’s Day at this cozy Pewaukee favorite! Create new traditions or rekindle classic dinner traditions by the fireplace at Jake's Restaurant.
Joey Gerard's
5601 Broad St., Greendale, (414) 858-1900
joeygerards.com
Joey Gerard's Supper Club brings the Bartolotta charm with simple yet delicious dishes. This option will surely allow a more comfortable and mellow vibe to your Valentine's Day. Make your reservation at one of their locations now!
Kawa Ramen & Sushi
2321 N. Murray Ave., (414) 800-7979
kawaramensushi.com
Be sweet to your Sweet by making reservations at Kawa anytime between Feb. 12-16. You'll be treated to a gloriously decorated restaurant complete with floating heart shaped balloons and chocolate treats for guests. To make the evening even sweeter, guests who present a social media post a photo or video of them sharing a kiss with their significant other will receive two glasses of sparkling rose, a special chocolate surprise and a Valentine's Day balloon to take home.
La Merenda
125 E. National Ave., (414) 389-0125
lamerenda125.com
It doesn't get much more romantic than sharing food. The tapas style menu at La Merenda lets you do just that, offering a long list of international tapas for you and your sweetie to split. Tasty wines and fruit-filled sangria rank the drinks just as good as the food.
Le Reve
7610 Harwood Ave., Wauwatosa, (414) 778-3333
lerevecafe.com
Transport your taste buds with a romantic Parisian experience. La Reve's cafe serves traditional bistro meals from breakfast through late-night dinner for a taste of French romance at any time of the day or evening. Save room for dessert; the patisserie stocks an array of traditional French pastries made by their classically trained chefs.
Lake Park Bistro
3133 E. Newberry Blvd., (414) 962-6300
lakeparkbistro.com
Transplant the Bartolotta family magic to the Lake Park Pavilion and you've got the recipe for a memorable evening. French cuisine and dramatic views of Lake Michigan don't hurt, either.
Mason Street Grill
425 E., Mason St., (414) 298-3131
masonstreetgrill.com
Celebrate your love with a delectable dinner at the Mason Street Grill! Try one of the classic dinners, and top it off with a decadent dessert.
Meraki
939 S. 2nd St., (414) 897-7230
restaurantmeraki.com
Enjoy a globally-inspired Valentine's Day experience at Meraki, a chic Walker's Point restaurant featuring well-executed dishes inspired by flavors from around the world. Order from the regular menu or make reservations for the chef's table, a personalized experience that will put your lover in the mood.
Miller Time Pub & Grill
Hilton Milwaukee City Center, 509 W. Wisconsin Ave., (414) 271-2337
Milwaukee.millertimepub.com
A Milwaukee staple in the heart of downtown, Miller Time Pub & Grill is sure to be a favorite this Valentine’s Day. Choose from nine types of specialty crafted burgers and a wide selection of draft beers.
Milwaukee Beer Bistro
2730 N Humboldt Blvd., Milwaukee, (414) 562-5540
milwaukeebeerbistro.com
Located in Riverwest, The Milwaukee Beer Bistro will have many different options for a Valentine’s Day dinner. Vegetarian options are also available.
Milwaukee Chophouse
633 N. 5th St., (414) 226-2467
chophouse411.com
Enjoy Valentine's Day specials all weekend long at the Milwaukee Chophouse. The chef has prepared a $150 all-inclusive menu for two menus, available from Feb. 14 through Feb. 16.
Mo's: A Place for Steaks
720 N. Plankinton Ave., (414) 272-0720
mosaplaceforsteaks.com
The great steaks and classy dining experience make Mo's a romantic Valentine's Day stop. A drink at the bar, with the piano in the background, sets a good mood.
MOTOR
401 W. Canal St., (414) 287-2778
motorrestaurant.com
Head to Harley-Davidson to enjoy a dining experience this Valentine's Day at MOTOR Bar & Restaurant! Your night will be filled with locally crafted beers, fine spirits and savory fare--all things that are sure to make your Valentine's Day a special one.
MOVIDA
524 S. 2nd St., (414) 224-5300
standeatdrink.com/valentines-day-at-movida
Stop in at MOVIDA and they'll offer you 41 (or more) reasons to love the food and drink of Spain. After all, there are few better ways to say "I love you" than a meal of croquetas, heart shaped churros and a porron of Spanish wine.
Mr. B's Steakhouse
18380 W. Capitol Dr., Brookfield, (262) 790-7005
11120 N. Cedarburg Rd., Mequon, (262) 518-5500
mrbssteakhouse.com
Life isn't complete without a nice, flavorful steak to get your juices flowing, so the same must apply for the most romantic day of the year. Don't especially like steak? No problem; they have lots of other delicious options, with a wine list to match.
Odd Duck
2352 S. Kinnickinnic Ave, (414) 763-5881
oddduckrestaurant.com
If variety is the spice of life, then Bay View's Odd Duck is the perfect spot to spice up your relationship. Their ever-changing menu is always delightful... plus, what's more romantic than sharing?
Onesto
221 N. Broadway, (414) 308-1600
hospitalitydemocracy.com/onesto
Known for its honest, modern and fresh Italian cuisine, Onesto is certain be a worthy destination for you and your date.
The Pasta Tree
1503 N. Farwell Ave., (414) 276-8867
pastatreemilwaukee.com
This is the romantic restaurant where it's pretty darn hard not to get close. Intimately placed tables and settings make The Pasta Tree a pure pleasure. Homemade pasta and more than 30 sauces. Oh, so good.
Pizza Man
2597 N Downer Ave., (414) 272-1745
pizzamanwi.com
This Valentine's Day, Pizza Man will serve heart-shaped pizzas, featuring three hand-selected wines. Love is in the air, share a 'pizza your heart.'
Ristorante Bartolotta
7616 W. State St., (414) 771-7910
bartolottaristorante.com
The head of the Bartolotta family is here to serve you and your wonderful date for a romantic night of indulgent Italian food. Just like all of the other Bartolotta restaurants, this one is all set to take you into their world of cuisine, which makes you feel at home.
The Rumpus Room
1030 N. Water St., (414) 292-0100
rumpusroommke.com
The Rumpus Room wants to give you a cozy and romantic night to remember this Valentine's Day. Come to think of it, they want the same for the daytime as well with their Valentine's Day Brunch for early birds.
RuYi
1721 W Canal St., (414) 847-7335
paysbig.com/dining
Another restaurant located at Potawatomi, this modern restaurant serves Asian cuisine, and is featuring their "Three of Hearts" menu on Feb. 14. The menu will be served for $45 per person or $80 per couple. It will feature a choice of an appetizer, Surf and Turf Bento Box with Kalbi short ribs and pan-seared salmon, a chocolate-dipped strawberry and one glass of wine per person. The restaurant will also have their regular menu items available that night.
Sanford
1547 N. Jackson St., (414) 276-9608
sanfordrestaurant.com
What happens when you put one of the nation's best chefs in a building that was once his family's grocery store? The result is what many say is simply the best restaurant in the state of Wisconsin, and the numerous awards on the wall prove that a visit here is mandatory if you are serious about food and wine. Your significant other will love you even more for it.
Safehouse
779 N Front St., (414) 271-2007
www.safe-house.com
For the best spies in the city, indulge in Safehouse's secret Valentine's Day Menu. The menu will run Feb. 8-17, and will feature a three course meal and shareable cocktail specials. The meals will run for $30 per person.
Shaker's Cigar Bar & World Cafe
422 S. 2nd St., (414) 272-4222
shakerscigarbar.com
Valentine's Day will be a study in aphrodisiacs at Shaker's where Chef-Owner Bob Weiss will transport guests to the heart of Italy with four courses including aragasta with baked lobster tail and agnello with braised lamb shanks con polenta. A starter of asparagus spears with a balsamic drizzle begins the tastingm and dinner wraps up with tiramisu embellished with dark chocolate ganache, pomegranate and figs. Each course will be accompanied by a drink pairing. Reservations are $150 per couple in advance and $175 per couple at the door, if available. Seating is very limited. For reservations call (414) 272-4222.
Sweet Diner
239 E. Chicago St., (414) 488-9600
sweetdiner.com
Celebrate the sweeter side of Valentine's Day with Sweet Diner's Bubbles & Sweets, a celebration of sugary delights and sparkling wine. During the event, which runs from 5:30 to 9 p.m., couples will be treated to a bottle of sparkling plus a tray of gourmet sweets including macarons; pistachio and whiskey truffles; salted cotton candy popcorn with Oreo dust; and strawberry panna cotta with white chocolate tears and caramelized rose petals. Cost is $58 per couple, plus gratuity. Reservations are required.
Tess
2499 N. Bartlett Ave., (414) 964-8377
tess2499.com
Although by no means devoid of restaurants, the East Side's "left bank" (just east of the Milwaukee River) has a shy but formidable little gal called Tess. The cozy dining room seats 30, and the flicker of dozens of candles, pomegranate walls and a large backyard patio will be a terrific place to dine come summer. Until then, Tess is a warm and relaxing getaway that's close to all the East Side action.
Third Coast Provisions
724 N. Milwaukee St., (414) 323-7434
thirdcoastprovisions.com
There aren't many contemporary restaurants that boast the elegance found at Third Coast Provisions. The well appointed dining room is beautifully designed and the sumptuous seafood menu is filled with indulgences like rich lobster potholes, surf and turf and aphrodiasical options like fresh oysters served on the half-shell.
Three Lions Pub
4515 N. Oakland Ave., Shorewood, 414-763-6992
http://threelionspub.com/
For a unique dining option this Valentine's Day, stop by Three Lions Pub for their Black Hearts Guinness Beer Dinner. For $55 per person, enjoy 4 delicious courses, each paired with a Guinness Blend feature.
Triskele's
1801 S. 3rd St., (414) 837-5950
triskelesrestaurant.com
If you're looking for cozy, look no further than Triskele's. This Walker's Point-area hidden gem is an intimate dinner destination worth finding. Its menu is cozy, too, featuring a small – but varied – selection of seasonal meat, seafood and vegetarian dishes perfect for pairing and sharing.
Zarletti
741 N Milwaukee St. #1, (414) 255-0000
zarletti.net
Nothing says Valentine's Day like Italian food for two. Head down to Zarletti for exquisite wine, deliciously paired menu selections and homemade dessert. Book your table today!
