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If you're ever in Milwaukee, At Random is the place to go! It's an MKE classic, with tons of preserved history. You immediately step back in time when you go here. The dim lighting, relaxed pace, and friendly service make you feel welcome and calm. They're known for their ice cream drinks and they never miss! The espresso martini is also a great option. They have a length list of options so you'll be sure to find something you like. But overall, this is a can't-miss spot for cocktails!
Two years later, I still love At Random. My last review was focused on their holiday heated huts. And, while, those are charming, the inside of At Random is the most charming of all. Opened during the swinging 60's, I have a hunch the interior of At Random hasn't changed a bit since that time. Don't get me wrong--it is well kept and neat as a pin. But, it'll throw you back to the Age of Aquarius in a blink. Walking through the doors feels very much like stepping through time. One thing I love is they have a host. No need to wander to see if there is a table big enough for your party or if there's two seats together at the bar--they'll get you seated. The menu is delightful. Ranging from classic cocktails to tiki classics and ice cream drinks, there's a little something for everyone. I love both their vieux carre and their sazerac. But, really, everything I've had here is fantastic. The service is always top notch. Truly, the most lovely people working here. Get to it!
At Random is a unique and fun experience! I love the ambiance- the deco, booths, bar area, and lighting take me to another time. It's beautiful inside and I love the red lighting. It's quite spacious with seating at the bar and booths in the front and back room. At Random also offers outdoor seating, weather permitting. I went on a Friday night around 7PM with three friends and we found seating in the back room right away at a spacious booth. The place filled up quick after we arrived, so we felt lucky! We all enjoyed our drinks and our waitress was very friendly. We ordered Hot Toddys and Irish Coffees to and our evening. Looking forward to going back!
This place gets five stars for the atmosphere alone!! I believe everything is original from the 60s. I'm not mistaken. I never get ice cream drinks, but you absolutely have to get one when you come to this place. They are by far the booziest ice cream dtinks I have ever had in my life!! Being in this place is like a dream. I can't even describe the settings. You just have to go and check it out if you have never been.
Great vibe- we stopped in after a baseball game. No food available- just beverages. Extensive drink menu. One person in our party enjoyed a mocktail- Phony Negroni. Two of us had yummy Ice cream drinks. An orange dreamsicle (not in the menu) and a rum based pina colada- like drink (Tomorrow's Plan). Great service. We watched a table of 4 order 2 Love Bowls (punch for 2)- fun drink. Great patio for Summer nights.
Such a great neighborhood bar in Bay View! I love that they had both dairy and non-dairy options for the boozy milkshakes. Which some are included in the happy hour special! I also enjoy that they have an outdoor patio which is perfect for the summer sunshine ! This place gets busy, but the service is consistent and delightful!
A lovely trip back in time to the 1960s. The place is super dark but this helps the ambience. No flash photos allowed. I loved feeling like I was in another time with authentic furniture, decor and lighting. Decor felt like days gone by with paneled walls and gold and olive green colored furniture. We enjoyed a strong old- fashioned and boozy milkshakes. My Brandy Alexander shake was so tasty with a touch of nutmeg and whip cream it was so indulgent. It even had a cherry and a little shortbread cookie on top! Our server even looked the party and was warm and wonderful. We stopped at the cigarette machine converted into a trinket machine where we purchased a souvenir pin shaped like the little shortbread cookie on my drink. Such a sweet momento. We love this little gem of a place. They also have a nice patio in the back for warmer weather days. We definitely will be back.
Based on when my last review of this place was, I've been a fan of At Random for 11+ years! The grasshopper is my favorite ice cream drink. Occasionally I mix it up with a pink squirrel like on my last visit., There was plenty of seating at the bar and in the back. We did inquire about the heated holiday huts and was told it was $8 a person for the huts. I think this must be new because I didn't recall paying an extra fee for them last year. We opted to sit at the bar. Service was efficient. I lived my pink squirrel. They also have an old cigarette vending machine that has been turned into a pin vending machine.
At Random always hits the spot! A perfect neighbor bar that provides a sultry atmosphere with incredible ice cream drinks as well as classic supper club cocktails. Whether taking advantage of the outside patio in summer or heated igloos in winter, or getting nice and cozy in an indoor booth this is the place to be! Belly up to the bar to watch the wonderful staff making up cocktails or have some privacy in a comfy booth for 2!
We visited At Random and had a fantastic time. There was a short 10-minute wait for a table, but it was absolutely worth it. The place has a cozy, retro vibe that makes you feel like you've stepped into a vintage lounge -- perfect for a relaxed night out. The drink menu is the star here, with a great selection of classic and creative cocktails. If you go, you must try the Lovers Bowl -- it's a fun, shareable drink that's both delicious and a total conversation piece. Whether you're out with friends or on a date, this is a great spot for drinks, good vibes, and a touch of nostalgia. Highly recommend!
The culmination of a fun day at At Random. "Occupying a cottage originally built in 1884 and expanded in 1893, At Random today feels just like it did in 1968 when it was opened. It is a great place for an authentic cocktail experience" A real lounge experience known for MKE Old Fashions and old time ice cream drinks. Yum. AND Happy Hour is 5-7 every day it's open. ($8 for the Brandy Alexander)
Kitschy little cocktail lounge that has been an iconic Milwaukee staple for as far back as I can remember. It's like walking back in time. You would think you were in an old Frank Sinatra or Dean Martin movie. We had a table of nine, and we all ordered different drinks. Their specialty cocktails range from handcrafted cocktails to ice cream drinks. Service was good, the drinks were good. If you're looking for a different experience, you can't go wrong with checking out this novelty!
At Random is a great place for ice cream drinks and a night cap after bopping around Milwaukee. I first came to find it during covid, when they had their cute little huts you could rent. Since then, I've been able to explore the inside and they've even remodeled, but it still is like you are being transported back in time - very vintage. It can get pretty busy on the weekends, but plenty of space to hang around the area as you wait for an ice cream drink nightcap!
Nice outside patio area! They have a walk up counter outside to order. The menu outside is smaller but they were able to make my friend a drink from their full menu inside. The drinks were relatively quick and delicious! The outside patio and inside are much different. We went inside due to rain for our second drink. The inside is dark and moody. Also enjoyed an ice cream drink in a glass inside versus plastic on patio. Excellent place for cocktails! Note they are involved and do take time to make. read more
6 months ago
What a great cocktail lounge!!!! This is in the Bay View neighborhood. Strickly tasty cocktails & delicious milkshake drinks. No beer or wine. Very cool retro decor. Dark Red lighting. Friendly bartenders. Comfy booths & a long bar. Cute colorful outside patio. I had a Brandy Alexander & enjoyed every sip! Those who had the cocktails also enjoyed theirs. Closed Friday,Saturday & Monday. read more
6 months ago
If you're ever in Milwaukee, At Random is the place to go! It's an MKE classic, with tons of preserved history. You immediately step back in time when you go here. The dim lighting, relaxed pace, and friendly service make you feel welcome and calm. They're known for their ice cream drinks and they never miss! The espresso martini is also a great option. They have a length list of options so you'll be sure to find something you like. But overall, this is a can't-miss spot for cocktails! read more
1 month ago
11 months ago
Two years later, I still love At Random. My last review was focused on their holiday heated huts. And, while, those are charming, the inside of At Random is the most charming of all. Opened during the swinging 60's, I have a hunch the interior of At Random hasn't changed a bit since that time. Don't get me wrong--it is well kept and neat as a pin. But, it'll throw you back to the Age of Aquarius in a blink. Walking through the doors feels very much like stepping through time. One thing I love is they have a host. No need to wander to see if there is a table big enough for your party or if there's two seats together at the bar--they'll get you seated. The menu is delightful. Ranging from classic cocktails to tiki classics and ice cream drinks, there's a little something for everyone. I love both their vieux carre and their sazerac. But, really, everything I've had here is fantastic. The service is always top notch. Truly, the most lovely people working here. Get to it! read more
10 months ago
At Random is a unique and fun experience! I love the ambiance- the deco, booths, bar area, and lighting take me to another time. It's beautiful inside and I love the red lighting. It's quite spacious with seating at the bar and booths in the front and back room. At Random also offers outdoor seating, weather permitting. I went on a Friday night around 7PM with three friends and we found seating in the back room right away at a spacious booth. The place filled up quick after we arrived, so we felt lucky! We all enjoyed our drinks and our waitress was very friendly. We ordered Hot Toddys and Irish Coffees to and our evening. Looking forward to going back! read more
This place gets five stars for the atmosphere alone!! I believe everything is original from the 60s. I'm not mistaken. I never get ice cream drinks, but you absolutely have to get one when you come to this place. They are by far the booziest ice cream dtinks I have ever had in my life!! Being in this place is like a dream. I can't even describe the settings. You just have to go and check it out if you have never been. read more
Great vibe- we stopped in after a baseball game. No food available- just beverages. Extensive drink menu. One person in our party enjoyed a mocktail- Phony Negroni. Two of us had yummy Ice cream drinks. An orange dreamsicle (not in the menu) and a rum based pina colada- like drink (Tomorrow's Plan). Great service. We watched a table of 4 order 2 Love Bowls (punch for 2)- fun drink. Great patio for Summer nights. read more
Such a great neighborhood bar in Bay View! I love that they had both dairy and non-dairy options for the boozy milkshakes. Which some are included in the happy hour special! I also enjoy that they have an outdoor patio which is perfect for the summer sunshine ! This place gets busy, but the service is consistent and delightful! read more
5 months ago
A lovely trip back in time to the 1960s. The place is super dark but this helps the ambience. No flash photos allowed. I loved feeling like I was in another time with authentic furniture, decor and lighting. Decor felt like days gone by with paneled walls and gold and olive green colored furniture. We enjoyed a strong old- fashioned and boozy milkshakes. My Brandy Alexander shake was so tasty with a touch of nutmeg and whip cream it was so indulgent. It even had a cherry and a little shortbread cookie on top! Our server even looked the party and was warm and wonderful. We stopped at the cigarette machine converted into a trinket machine where we purchased a souvenir pin shaped like the little shortbread cookie on my drink. Such a sweet momento. We love this little gem of a place. They also have a nice patio in the back for warmer weather days. We definitely will be back. read more
Based on when my last review of this place was, I've been a fan of At Random for 11+ years! The grasshopper is my favorite ice cream drink. Occasionally I mix it up with a pink squirrel like on my last visit., There was plenty of seating at the bar and in the back. We did inquire about the heated holiday huts and was told it was $8 a person for the huts. I think this must be new because I didn't recall paying an extra fee for them last year. We opted to sit at the bar. Service was efficient. I lived my pink squirrel. They also have an old cigarette vending machine that has been turned into a pin vending machine. read more
6 months ago
At Random always hits the spot! A perfect neighbor bar that provides a sultry atmosphere with incredible ice cream drinks as well as classic supper club cocktails. Whether taking advantage of the outside patio in summer or heated igloos in winter, or getting nice and cozy in an indoor booth this is the place to be! Belly up to the bar to watch the wonderful staff making up cocktails or have some privacy in a comfy booth for 2! read more
We visited At Random and had a fantastic time. There was a short 10-minute wait for a table, but it was absolutely worth it. The place has a cozy, retro vibe that makes you feel like you've stepped into a vintage lounge -- perfect for a relaxed night out. The drink menu is the star here, with a great selection of classic and creative cocktails. If you go, you must try the Lovers Bowl -- it's a fun, shareable drink that's both delicious and a total conversation piece. Whether you're out with friends or on a date, this is a great spot for drinks, good vibes, and a touch of nostalgia. Highly recommend! read more
1 year ago
The culmination of a fun day at At Random. "Occupying a cottage originally built in 1884 and expanded in 1893, At Random today feels just like it did in 1968 when it was opened. It is a great place for an authentic cocktail experience" A real lounge experience known for MKE Old Fashions and old time ice cream drinks. Yum. AND Happy Hour is 5-7 every day it's open. ($8 for the Brandy Alexander) read more
1 year ago
Kitschy little cocktail lounge that has been an iconic Milwaukee staple for as far back as I can remember. It's like walking back in time. You would think you were in an old Frank Sinatra or Dean Martin movie. We had a table of nine, and we all ordered different drinks. Their specialty cocktails range from handcrafted cocktails to ice cream drinks. Service was good, the drinks were good. If you're looking for a different experience, you can't go wrong with checking out this novelty! read more
30 days ago
9 months ago
At Random is a great place for ice cream drinks and a night cap after bopping around Milwaukee. I first came to find it during covid, when they had their cute little huts you could rent. Since then, I've been able to explore the inside and they've even remodeled, but it still is like you are being transported back in time - very vintage. It can get pretty busy on the weekends, but plenty of space to hang around the area as you wait for an ice cream drink nightcap! read more
Have been here several times before. It has become our go-to place for a boozy ice cream dessert after having dinner somewhere else downtown. It's a unique experience -- a retro bar with a big menu of special drinks, especially all the best ice cream drinks. Inside, they have a bar area that also has some small booths. In the back, they have a larger room that can accommodate parties of four. The entire place has a red glow, and it's also dimly lit -- but they now have table lights that make it a bit easier to read the menu. You can also sit on the outside patio and order your drinks at the window, where there are picnic tables for seating. They used to have a menu that was in a three-ring binder. That has now been upgraded to a smaller format that is easier to handle and looks classier. We arrived around 8:00 on a Friday night. It was a warm night, and there were people already on the patio. We decided to get a spot inside (which is my preference). There wasn't any wait, and we got seated right away with a couple of menus. We decided on the Brandy Alexander and the Pink Squirrel. Our server did a nice job taking care of us, and it wasn't long before our drinks came. They were both well-made and delicious. We took our time savoring them. This was the first time I got a Pink Squirrel, and I was surprised at how tasty it was. I didn't even realize what I was drinking (the ingredients), but the server had all the info and explained that it was the crème de noyaux that gives the pink color. Again, a very nice experience, and I will definitely be back for another special after-dinner dessert drink. read more
The vibes are wonderful! It felt like I was transported to 1964. I started with the watermelon cooler, a frozen drink with watermelon liqueur, lime, and gin. It was delicious and refreshing! Then I switched gears and order an ice cream drink. The bartender recommended the cookies and cream and I loved it! Service was fast for having to make specialty cocktails. Overall a great experience! read more
Looking for a popular Milwaukee bar/lounge that speaks to a bygone era and serves iconic Milwaukee ice cream drinks? Then this is your spot. Its retro ambiance, comfy booths and stellar happy hour drink deals make this place a must-try. Service was super attentive which we appreciated and we never felt rushed even though we each only ordered one drink each. Bonus! In the winter they have heated huts decked out for the holidays that you can rent out back for a fun and unique experience. I recommend arriving early to avoid a wait and ensure you snag a street parking spot nearby. Also, be ready to get carded at the door. read more
Visited At Random on a week night and it did not disappoint! The vibes are definitely darker and intimate- It was also wonderfully decorated for the holidays which was great . We got seated right away for a group of 5 and tried out their famous ice cream shakes. The Snickers shake was delicious- a good blend of chocolate , caramel and hint of alcohol. Although my experience was short, overall I had a wonderful time and plan to stop back again to try new menu items! Would recommend trying out if you are looking for an intimate cocktail lounge experience. read more
We went here on a Friday around 6:30pm. It wasn't that busy so we were seated right away. The place has a a really cool aesthetic! Felt like we went back in time. We decided to order the love potion drink, which is meant to be shared. It was huge and definitely tasty. Next we both ordered an ice cream drink; chocolate raspberry & snickers. They were both delicious! I couldn't get enough. I will def be back to try more. read more
11 months ago
What an outstanding experience! We showed up on a Friday night without a reservation and it was an hour wait but were told if we were willing to sit outside, could be seated right away ! I can't believe more people didn't take them up on this offer! We were seated in an igloo garden greenhouse thing and our waitress came in to take our order. There was a heater and it comfortably sat 4 people. It was lovely because we could all hear each other and have a nice conversation. We came for the ice cream drinks and it didn't disappoint! We tried the pink squirrel, mudslide, and chocolate raspberry and they were all delicious! We even bought a commemorative pin inside to remember the experience. This is a must see when in the Milwaukee area! read more
1 year ago
As you walk into this subtly illuminated restaurant/ bar, you are taken back into the '70s in an old dive bar. The decor inside is a completely different vibe than anywhere else in this neighborhood. The outdoor patio is so upbeat and peppy and a great place to hang out and enjoy a fun cocktail with ice cream. They have so many unique options on the menu, and the servers do such a good job explaining exactly what each drink consists of. If you're not into dairy products they can make almost everything vegan. They also have a great mocktail option as well. This place is a Bay View icon you have to go. read more
2 years ago
A few weekends ago, I tried At Random! It's such a unique concept with ice cream drinks, old-school vibes, and cozy heated outdoor private dining. I ordered a Pink Squirrel, an ice cream drink made with crème de noyaux, crème de cacao, and heavy cream. I learned that it was actually invented in Milwaukee in 1941! My visitors from out of town also enjoyed their drinks, though they found them super filling--I thought mine was just right and loved the cookie on top. We visited at 3 PM on a Sunday, and it was completely empty, which made for a relaxed experience. I have tried to go multiple times on busier weekends in the past but did not stay due to the long wait. The only thing I wish I had known beforehand was the extra charge for the igloo seating (not their fault though). It would be helpful to have a heads-up about that since the cost can add up quickly. Our igloo was also missing a server call button, but luckily, our server was attentive, and we didn't end up needing it. Overall, it was a great experience, and I can't wait to go back and check out the indoor seating next time! read more
10 months ago
Had a great time- popped in "randomly" the other night and was delighted by the atmosphere and large menu! We ordered a round of cocktails followed by NA ice cream drinks. Loved the fun surprise of the survivor pins in the old cigarette dispenser. read more
Wow wow wow what a hidden gem!! They only sell milkshakes/beverages, so come after dinner! Perfect for a hang out with you girl friends, date night, or to cap off a celebration! The lighting inside was dark and vibey. Staff was friendly! Prices were insanely reasonable?!? $13 for a boozy shake! I had the grasshopper.. 10/10! Not overly boozy. Delicious! I would definitely come again. They have outdoor seating too that I didn't explore. It was almost full on a Friday night, but stick around if there's a wait! read more
2 years ago
Favorite cocktail spot in downtown Milwaukee! We sat inside and ordered a few drinks. They have something for everyone on their menu and it's such a fun atmosphere insane. We love sitting outside in the summer but the interior makes you feel like you're in a time warp. Service is great and always willing to help give suggestions. Highly recommend! read more
Tl:dr This is place is an experience and you should treat it as such - don't book a dinner reservation for 40 mins from when you get there, don't expect to bring a giant party of 7 in with you and just appreciate the ride. At Random was a place my parents mooned over. They would always tell me how much fun they had when they were younger, going there and getting the ice cream drink Brandy Alexander with extra nutmeg. Before I could drink this place seemed romantic, mysterious and a place I knew I was going to have to check out. I've since been to At Random a handful of times and each time the experience is special, romantic and mysterious. Most recently, my husband arrived luckily fairly early at 7ish on a Saturday and were able to get two seats at the bar which was fortunate as the whole front was already full and around the corner in the back seemed pretty scrunched too. While we were there for about an hour and a half, there were streams of people coming in, trying to get a spot and failing. That's the allure of getting "in" and getting the red glowing ambiance while enjoying a high-quality drink. We got ice cream drinks (Butter Pecan for me) and our second drink I tried a crushed ice Watermelon Cooler with gin. They both were delicious and very different. The Butter Pecan has the crushed up nuts and swirled of Carmel that was garnished with the famous cookie and whipped cream/cherry combo. The Cooler was crisp and refreshing with a lime and a good kick of sweet, but with a really nice watermelon flavor. At Random is also now doing an outdoor holiday wonderland with heated tents type scenario - the decorations and great and beautiful, but for me I will always be picking the inside for Fall/Winter and only consider a beverage outside during the summer. Will visit time and time again. read more
This is Milwaukee's cocktail jewel box, a slice of the hip swinging days of the Rat Pack cigarette machines in the hallway, I've been coming for 40 years.....yikes!!! Great ambience- we're packed in like sardines. You feel like you just walked into a cool hip party, Best cocktails in town. Pricey. Don't be a jerk / open that creaky wallet and spend some bucks on premium mixology, Patience is required. Like most most establishments, there's not enough bartenders for labor intensive drinks. For your first foray, go on an off night and Uber. Sit at the bar and chat up your mixologist. Tip well. Pretend you're Rat Pack and wear a suit or cocktail dress. Now go have yourself some Fine libations!!!!!! read more
Seriously one of the coolest spots you'll find for a cocktail. The low lights, wood paneling and leather seating have the best retro vibe you could ask for. A great spot for a date night or evening with friends. The staff is fantastic, and the drinks are seriously delicious. If you're not sure what to try, you should definitely ask the bartender. They'll help you pick something perfect. For an added perk, stop in before dinner for happy hour and get one of the super delicious happy hour options for a real deal! Next time I'll be trying the Pink Squirrel because apparently it was born from Milwaukee (I just over heard conversation so I'm not sure but I THINK they said at Bryants) read more
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More info about At Random
2501 S Delaware Ave
Milwaukee, WI 53207
Bay View
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(414) 481-8030
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https://www.atrandommke.com
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Ask the Community - At Random
I see it says well behaved children allowed. What is the age that is allowed? I have 13 year olds.
Thanks for asking! We allow any age on the patio before 7:00pm, as long as they are with their parent. We never allow anyone under 21 in the lounge, and we never serve them alcohol.
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