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Best Authentic Restaurants in Milwaukee

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21 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Zarletti - Downtown restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(2901)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Milwaukee
Booked 22 times today
Zarletti - Downtown is a fine dining Italian restaurant located in the heart of downtown Milwaukee. The executive chef and owner, Brian C. Zarletti, focuses on creating regional Italian cuisine inspired by his extensive travels in Italy and lessons learned in his grandmother's kitchen. Reviews rave about the authenticity of the food, with one stating, 'If you are looking for authentic Italian food cooked with love, Zarletti’s is a “must try”' and another mentioning the 'best authentic northern Italian food since I was in Florence'. The consistent high ratings for food, ambience, and service make Zarletti a must-visit for authentic Italian dining.
A photo of Safina restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(310)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Milwaukee
Booked 14 times today
It’s been over four years since guests last tasted the Sicilian dishes from longtime Milwaukee restaurant Giovanni’s. But all of that changes with Safina: a new casual Italian concept that comes to the historic building at 785 N. Jefferson St.Focusing on comforting dishes with roots in Sicily and the southern regions of Italy, Safina's goal is to keep the menu familiar and accessible. The restaurant also features a full bar and second-level seating, complete with wood and marble finishes that highlight the rustic, modern Italian ambiance.
A photo of SafeHouse restaurant
4.2
Awesome(669)
Price: Moderate
• American • Milwaukee
Booked 31 times today
Offering refuge to spies national and international since 1966, SafeHouse is Milwaukee's best-kept secret. This iconic, hidden restaurant & bar is a blast for agents of all ages. Spies must find the red door and pass a fun clearance test if they do not know the password required for entry. Once behind the red door, spies will find authentic espionage artifacts, pop culture references, a disappearing booth, a secret exit, and more. Enjoy a fun night out in Milwaukee, or a covert daytime mission for the family at this kid-friendly, spy hideout. SafeHouse offers venue space for agents looking to celebrate special occasions, birthdays, bachelor and bachelorette parties, and group events. Grab your fellow spies to enjoy award-winning cheese curds, solve recon duties, and learn about SafeHouse's history. Find the red door if you accept this mission, Agent!
A photo of Tupelo Honey - Milwaukee restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1528)
Price: Moderate
• Regional American (Contemporary Southern) • Milwaukee
Booked 96 times today
Tupelo Honey is a revival of Southern food and traditions rooted in the Carolina Mountains we call home. We craft brunches, lunches and suppers that bring family and friends around the table and allow for conversations and cocktails to linger longer than usual. Please arrive on time with all members in your party present. We will cancel reservations 15 minutes after the scheduled time. The combining of separate reservations will not be honored. We look forward to seeing you soon!
A photo of Amilinda restaurant
4.4
Awesome(277)
Price: Expensive
• Spanish • Milwaukee
Booked 17 times today
Amilinda is a celebrated Milwaukee restaurant known for its vibrant blend of Spanish and Portuguese-inspired cuisine. Owner and executive chef Gregory León leads the kitchen with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative flavor combinations. His culinary talent has earned him three James Beard Award nominations, highlighting his influence and expertise in the culinary world. Amilinda continues to be a standout dining experience with the reputation as a top dinning destination that attracts locals and visitors alike.Located in the heart of downtown Milwaukee, just blocks away from the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Pfister Hotel, Amilinda offers a cozy and inviting space with rustic decor, reflecting its Iberian Peninsula influences. The warm, intimate atmosphere complements the creative dishes from the kitchen, making it a destination for memorable meals.
A photo of Carbon Steak restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(182)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Milwaukee
Booked 15 times today
Located in Downtown Milwaukee's East Town neighborhood, Carbon Steak is a contemporary interpretation of a traditional steakhouse focused on a chef-driven menu, complemented by a fine collection of wine and a curated cocktail program.
A photo of Movida at Hotel Madrid restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1967)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas / Small Plates • Milwaukee
Booked 44 times today
The same Movida food you love, same great cocktails, with all the sangria you can enjoy. This is Movida at Hotel Madrid.Movida, translated meaning the movement, is a Spanish tapas restaurant located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Beyond the food, Movida features a recognized program that consists of Spanish wines, craft cocktails and house-made Sangria.
A photo of Char'd restaurant
3.6
Very Good(728)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary Korean • Milwaukee
Booked 17 times today
Char’d offers ever-changing Korean-themed small plates perfect for 'shared plate dining' or snacking along with drinks. Full-meal-sized Korean traditional entrées are served with a bowl of rice. Our dishes showcase elevated presentations and modern techniques to re-interpret authentic Korean cuisine, while staying true to its roots. We pride ourselves in featuring locally source and seasonal products to create ‘New Korean’ dishes as an homage to traditional Korean culinary skills and recipes.
A photo of Smoke Shack restaurant
4.5
Awesome(444)
Price: Moderate
• American • Milwaukee
Booked 15 times today
Smoke Shack is the real deal when it comes to American barbecue. Their dedication to crafting smoked meats is evident in their daily practice of smoking your meat the day before to ensure the best quality. Their menu offers a variety of dishes that are uniquely smoked, from brisket to ribs. The reviews are glowing, with customers praising the delicious food and friendly service. As one reviewer said, 'The ambiance at the outside dining room was like having dinner around a campfire and we love to camp.'
A photo of Ristorante Bartolotta dal 1993 restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(3266)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Wauwatosa
Booked 16 times today
Nestled in an historic brewery building in the Village of Wauwatosa, Ristorante Bartolotta dal 1993 is the flagship restaurant in The Bartolotta Restaurants portfolio.Conceived by The Bartolotta Restaurants co-founders, restaurateur Joe Bartolotta and his brother, Chef Paul Bartolotta, Ristorante Bartolotta dal 1993 is acclaimed for its handmade pasta and authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy, intimate setting. Executive Chef Juan Urbieta presents the popular “Un Viaggio in Italia” menu series, highlighting a different city or region of Italy with a four-course, customizable menu that takes guests on a journey of Italy and changes monthly.The restaurant was recently awarded the coveted Marchio Ospitalità Italiana certification of excellence by the Italian Union of Chamber of Commerce. This prestigious award honors a restaurant for its commitment to “Made in Italy” quality and authenticity.

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Discover best authentic restaurants in Milwaukee

Discover the heart of Milwaukee's dining scene with our curated list of restaurants renowned for their authenticity. Whether you're craving the robust flavors of American barbecue, the comfort of Italian family recipes, or the innovation of global cuisine, Milwaukee offers a rich tapestry of culinary experiences that cater to every palate. Each restaurant we feature has been praised for not only the authenticity of their food but also for their commitment to quality ingredients and memorable dining environments. Milwaukee’s restaurant landscape is vibrant and diverse, with establishments that blend traditional cooking methods with modern culinary innovation. From chef’s counters where you can watch your meal being prepared, to cozy spots that feel like dining in grandma's kitchen, the authenticity of Milwaukee's dining options is sure to enchant and satisfy. No matter where you choose to dine, you'll find knowledgeable staff, welcoming atmospheres, and a commitment to providing a truly genuine dining experience. These restaurants are celebrated not just for their excellent cuisine but also for their ability to create a sense of community and connection through food. If you're seeking an authentic dining experience in Milwaukee, you'll be delighted by the range of options that celebrate both local and international culinary traditions. Remember, an authentic meal isn't just about the food; it's about the entire experience that surrounds it, making each meal a memorable event.

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