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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Milwaukee

Cafes and Toast

You want a cafe that treats toast as a main event rather than an afterthought.

Based on 518 Opinions
+515
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Updated May 2026
01
Casera Cafe & Bakery image 1
Casera Cafe & Bakery image 2
Casera Cafe & Bakery image 3
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Bright, spacious cafe with natural lighting and indoor-outdoor seating creates a calm, relaxing atmosphere. The space feels open and well-curated, suitable for working alone or socializing. Attention to detail and friendly vibe make it welcoming and enjoyable.

Coffee and pastries stand out with chocolate croissants and cinnamon rolls being highlights. Seating options include indoor and outdoor booths, creating a relaxed vibe for chatting or working.

Avocado toast stands out with bacon jam, poached eggs, and pickled radishes. Toast comes with a side of fresh greens and a hidden gem jam adds extra flavor.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the coffee; it was perfectly made."

"The pastries at this cafe are amazing, especially the croissants."

"The avocado toast with eggs and bacon jam was out of this world."

Good to know

1

The food side of the kitchen closes an hour before the cafe closes.

2

They provide super strong WiFi, making it a good spot for work.

3

Expect a long line on weekends, especially around noon.

02
Colectivo Coffee Lakefront image 1

Cafe offers abundant outdoor seating with lake views and a unique interior. Atmosphere suits both quiet study and socializing, with occasional live music and some street noise outside. The spot attracts those seeking a relaxing lakeside vibe.

Located in a historic water pumping station, the cafe offers a unique setting with preserved infrastructure. Comfortable seating includes a mezzanine with a great view, power outlets, and wifi, making it a solid spot for work or relaxing.

Avocado toast stands out with a rich flavor and solid quality. Ordering ahead on the app speeds up getting this and other items like coffee and sweet treats, though expect about a 25-minute wait for the toast.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the smooth and tasty salted caramel latte."

"The cafe's salted caramel latte is smooth and tasty."

"The avocado toast here tasted amazing and was on point."

Good to know

1

Parking is often difficult, especially on weekends when it gets crowded.

2

Prices are high, with small muffins costing over $3.50.

3

The coffee shop is located in a historic water pumping station near the lakefront.

03
Canary Coffee Bar image 1

Coffee bar offers a modern minimalist design with natural light and ample seating including a 15-seat counter. Atmosphere stays quiet and cozy, suitable for quick meetings or studying. Smooth espresso shots and high-quality coffee stand out in this sleek, well-lit space.

Quiet atmosphere suits quick business meetings and hanging out with friends. Service stands out as friendly and attentive. The spot works well for relaxing, studying, or casual chats.

Avocado toast on sourdough stands out with its rich flavor and perfectly light texture. Toasts often come with savory toppings, not just cold ones, offering a satisfying variety.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was exceptionally good."

"The owner's genuine kindness makes this Cafe feel so special."

"The avocado toast here is excellent and savory."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging due to its downtown location.

2

They do not offer hot breakfast options; only coffee and light snacks are available.

3

The coffee shop stays open later than many others in the area.

04
Highlands Cafe image 1
American restaurant

Small cafΓ© with cozy, welcoming atmosphere and sunlit window seats creates a comfortable setting. Noise level can be loud due to hard surfaces, especially during busy times. Offers affordable brunch options with standout dishes like eggs Benedict and corned beef hash, alongside popular Bloody Marys.

Cute and comfy spot with a neighborhood cafe atmosphere. Offers great food and coffee in a cool area.

Menu includes French toast, avocado toast, and sourdough toast options. Toast appears with various dishes like eggs, sausage, and chicken salad sandwiches.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and tasty."

"The cafe's food is great, especially the biscuits and gravy."

"The atmosphere here is so warm and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging on busy days, so arrive early.

2

Prices are reasonable, with breakfast items starting around $6.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but check for any minimums.

05
Grace Coffee Co. image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop offers a retro feel with green colors and DIY style decor. Atmosphere is lively with music like a nightclub and plenty of natural light. Various seating options include an outdoor patio and a giant butterfly swing.

Offers a full breakfast menu beyond typical small bites and pastries. Features a DIY style that stands out among coffee shops. Serves solid options for lattes and lunch in a casual setting.

Avocado salmon toast offers a flavorful and delicious option. Some toast spreads can get soggy from heavy use of balsamic dressing or aioli. French toast arrives without powdered sugar despite menu listing.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was good."

"I loved the coffee and pastries at this cafe."

"The salmon avocado toast was flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect busy hours during weekends, especially on opening day.

2

Cleanliness issues have been reported, with tables often unclean.

3

The cafe offers a variety of beverages and food for non-meat diets.

06
Jo's Cafe image 1
American restaurant

Small diner-style space with a homey, casual vibe where cooking happens in front of diners. Friendly atmosphere filled with familiar faces and background music of classic soul artists. Known for generous omelets, best hash browns, and incredible prices.

Atmosphere feels like an old diner-style restaurant with great coffee and service. The cafe operates on a cash-only basis and offers a unique vibe different from its previous iteration.

French toast comes out lovely but other toast orders can take a long time. The kitchen shows little urgency when preparing toast, sometimes causing delays and incorrect preparation.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great breakfast, especially the fluffy pancakes."

"The Cafe's breakfast food was very, very good."

"The fried eggs and toast were wicked perfect."

Good to know

1

The cafe is cash only, so bring cash for your visit.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere with limited seating available.

3

The dining area and bathrooms need better cleaning.

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Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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