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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Milwaukee

Cheese curds and seafood

The appetite is split between a local snack and a meal from the water. A plate of cheese curds followed by fresh seafood is the goal.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
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Updated May 2026
01
East Town Kitchen + Bar image 1
East Town Kitchen + Bar image 2
East Town Kitchen + Bar image 3
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American restaurant

Cream city brick and modern decor create a warm and inviting atmosphere with floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of a busy boulevard. The space divides into a lively bar area with multiple TVs and a more sophisticated dining section with low tables. The vibe balances upscale comfort and chill energy, welcoming a diverse crowd throughout the day.

Fried cheese curds stand out with their crispy texture and rich flavor. They pair well with other dishes like chicken wings and fries, making them a delicious appetizer option.

Shrimp and grits stand out with perfectly cooked shrimp and a tasty, slightly salty flavor. The Friday fish fry features giant fish fillets that make a solid seafood option.

People are saying

"Taylor's beer recommendations were fantastic and friendly."

"I thought the Wisconsin cheese curds were the best in town."

"The seafood, especially the shrimp and grits, is outstanding."

Good to know

1

A 20% service charge is added to the bill for parties of six or more.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

02
Craft image 1
Restaurant

Upscale restaurant blends fine dining with a sports bar vibe, creating a lively atmosphere especially before games. Spacious, well-decorated interior features bright lighting and a mix of quiet and busy moments. Guests often enjoy diverse menu options ranging from classic salads to rich seafood dishes.

Fried cheese curds come in a small basket, crisp outside and gooey inside. They pair well with chipotle ranch and serve as a solid appetizer alongside items like pretzels.

Shrimp and lobster Cajun Mac and cheese stands out with rich flavors. The salmon and fish fry offer solid options, especially on Fridays during Lent.

People are saying

"The bar has a great selection of beer, wine, and cocktails."

"The shrimp and lobster Mac and cheese is amazing."

"I found the fried Wisconsin Cheese Curds with chipotle ranch fantastic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended even if the restaurant appears empty.

2

The restaurant serves food late, making it a good option for late-night dining.

3

Expect higher prices compared to other local dining options.

03
Uncle Buckโ€™s | Dinner, Drinks, & Dancing image 1

Rooftop bar offers spectacular views of the river and downtown with a friendly crowd and multiple screens for watching football. Music plays at a comfortable volume, and a dance floor with top DJs energizes the second floor. Outdoor seating and a cozy terrace add to the warm, fun atmosphere.

Cheese curds here stand out for their delicious flavor and great texture. They come as a popular appetizer often paired with local beers like Spotted Cow.

Shrimp tacos stand out with their strong flavor. The fish fry also delivers a solid seafood option.

People are saying

"The rooftop bar has spectacular views."

"The service at these dinner spots was friendly and helpful."

"The seafood here is amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends and before events.

2

Expect the bar to be very busy before Bucks or Marquette games.

3

Happy hour offers discounted bites from 4-6pm on weekdays.

04
Camino image 1
American restaurant

Small, crowded bar with kitchen in the bar creates a smoky, lively atmosphere. Eclectic, welcoming crowd matches the energetic, warm vibe enhanced by great music and a cozy patio. Unique setup includes grill next to bar and mismatched interior, offering a distinct neighborhood tavern feel.

Cheese curds come out fresh, hot, and gooey with a creamy texture and generous size. They feature a unique seasoning and pair well with a special sauce.

Shrimp Po' Boy stands out with its crispy fry and tangy remoulade. Cod fish fry comes out perfectly cooked and tender.

People are saying

"These Wisconsin cheese curds are seriously mouthwatering, hot, and gooey."

"I thought Camino served maybe the best burger I ever had."

"I thought the fish fry was quite good and perfectly done."

Good to know

1

The $5 burger deal is available every Monday.

2

Wings and sides are discounted on Wednesdays.

3

Parking is free, but can be limited due to downtown proximity.

05
In Plane View image 1
Bar & grill

Bar and grill offers a spacious interior with airplane-themed decor and a patio overlooking runways. Atmosphere feels comfortable and family friendly, with lively conversations often overtaking music. Popular for well-crafted cocktails and a notable fish fry.

Cheese curds come with a mix of experiences. Some are amazing and outstanding, especially paired with fish fry or wraps. Others taste like old oil was used, which affects freshness.

Fish fry stands out with excellent quality and a fantastic beer battered cod option. Shrimp offers a crunchy outside and moist inside with great flavor.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is so great and friendly."

"I thought the fish fry was awesome and delicious."

"The Wisconsin Cheese Curds here are amazing."

Good to know

1

Wednesdays are wing night with special pricing on wings.

2

Friday Fish Fry is popular, even among non-fish eaters.

3

Sunday Packer raffles offer a chance to win prizes during games.

06
MOTOR Bar and Restaurant image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant with live blues music and Harley-Davidson-themed design offers beautiful river and harbor views. Atmosphere is lively and energetic, especially during live band nights, which can be loud. Outdoor seating enhances the experience with pleasant music and scenic surroundings.

Cheese curds come out very crispy and perfectly done. They stand out as a wonderful appetizer alongside the pretzels.

Friday fish fry features lightly breaded, well seasoned fish with a crispy crust and tender inside. Comes with cornbread and coleslaw, and offers an all-you-can-eat option at a good price.

People are saying

"I found the food to be really good and delicious."

"The atmosphere here is really cool, with a great Harley vibe."

"The fish fry here is damn good, especially the unlimited fish and chips."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted cocktails and appetizers on weekdays.

2

All-you-can-eat fish and chips is available on Fridays.

3

Wing Wednesday specials are offered every Wednesday.

07
The Slow Buffalo image 1
Bar & grill

Small bar and grill with a recent remodel and cramped seating around a large bar. Atmosphere shifts from cozy and welcoming to very loud and noisy when full, making conversation difficult. Known for exceptional food and drinks with a scratch kitchen and standout cocktails.

Queso Blanco cheese curds stand out with their excellent flavor. Wings paired with these outstanding curds make a solid combo.

Fish fry stands out with perfect cooking and amazing flavor. Shrimp dishes like bang bang shrimp and shrimp tacos offer unique and tasty options.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here to be top notch and delicious."

"The Wisconsin cheese curds here are outstanding and flavorful."

"I would definitely recommend the fish fry here."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has limited seating, so arrive early to avoid long waits.

2

Street parking is available, but it can be challenging to find a spot.

3

Expect a packed house on weekends, especially during dinner hours.

08
O'Lydia's Bar and Grill image 1

Irish pub with spacious indoor and outdoor seating and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere that encourages conversation. Donation-based shuttles run to major events, adding convenience. Nearby train tracks cause occasional loud noise, but the well-lit enclosed patio offers a pleasant, secluded space.

Cheese curds come with a crispy coating and a melty interior. They pair well with a tangy sauce and Cajun sweet potato fries.

Fish fry features a perfectly battered combo with shrimp, bluegill, perch loin, and cod. Portions are huge and the fish stays juicy and delicious without greasiness.

People are saying

"The pub food here is fantastic and reasonably priced."

"The fish fry here is outstanding, with huge portions."

"I thought the Wisconsin Cheese Curds were the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day on Sundays with special drink prices.

2

Saturday Steak Night features discounted steak options and drink specials.

3

Daily food and drink specials are available throughout the week.

09
Hooligan's Super Bar image 1

Two-floor bar with cozy neighborhood vibe and amazing outdoor seating offers a lively, sometimes loud atmosphere. Regulars enjoy unique cocktails and notable comfort food like cheese curds and burgers. Small space fills quickly, creating a bustling, friendly environment.

Cheese curds here have a grainy texture that stands out. They come alongside burgers and fries but don't get recommended for their texture.

Fish fry stands out with Friday walleye and cod options that satisfy appetite. Shrimp offers a nice flavor and pairs well with down east cider.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are so friendly and attentive."

"I loved the fish fry, especially the walleye."

"I found the Wisconsin cheese curds here to be the best I've ever tried."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $2 off drinks until 6 pm.

2

Half-off wings are available on Tuesdays.

3

Fish Fry Fridays feature special pricing.

10
Miller Time Pub & Grill image 1

Bar and grill with sports screens everywhere and a Wisconsin vibe filled with beer memorabilia. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and spacious during the day to louder and more crowded at night. High tables and lots of windows create an open, bright setting for watching games and casual dining.

Fried cheese curds come out hot and fresh with a generous size and strong flavor that pairs well with beer. They stand out as next level and often steal the show alongside burgers and wings.

Fish and chips stand out with good quality fish, often served without the chips for a lighter option. The fish tacos also feature well-prepared fish, making seafood a solid choice here.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fantastic."

"These Wisconsin cheese curds are amazing and packed with flavor."

"You have to try the fish and chips; it's classic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait for seating during peak hours.

2

The restaurant opens at 11:00 am, but doors may open late.

3

Happy hour offers limited discounts on select items.

11
Crafty Cow - Burgers & Fried Chicken image 1

Vintage building with old-school barn vibe and nostalgic decor creates a lively atmosphere. Outdoor seating adds to the historic yet updated layout. Music and energetic crowd contribute to a homey, comfortable feel.

Freshly battered cheese curds come in regular and hot honey varieties, both highly praised for their flavor. Loaded cheese curds and pork belly appetizers offer generous portions that satisfy without filling up too much.

Spicy fish sandwich delivers genuine heat. Fish fry is available daily, paired well with a great slaw on the fish fry sandwich. Fish tends to be greasy but comes in combos like fish and chicken.

People are saying

"I thought the burger was tender, juicy, and well-balanced."

"These Wisconsin cheese curds are some of the best I've ever had."

"I found the fish sandwich to be tasty and complemented by great slaw."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 2-5 pm with $3 drafts.

2

Trivia night occurs every Tuesday at 8 pm with a $5 entry fee.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere during Saturday events; arrive early.

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