I'll preface my review with this - the Tom Collins is my favorite drink. Any bartender worth their weight should know how to make this classic American drink. With that said, Blu's bartenders cannot make a Tom Collins to save their collective lives. The first Collins I had was absolutely dreadful. It was basically club soda with a dash of sour mix. I knew exactly what I was getting myself into as I watched him make the drink; he never once took his hand off of the soda button as he was filling the glass. This was one of the few times in my life where I actually considered returning the drink, but I generally don't have the balls to pull off that type of boss move. So I tried to rationalize...this is a swanky, nice looking 23rd floor cocktail lounge with a great view of downtown in one of the nicest hotels in the city. This surely had to be a one-off occurrence. I ordered a Tom Collins from another bartender, thinking I'd get a different result. Nope, basically a repeat occurrence. This time I actually did return it and kept it safe with a gin & tonic. This is one of those places where it's not safe to order anything that's not on the drink menu. I'd come back if my friends wanted to go, but would never come back on my own. An extra-star for the dark ambience, trendy décor, and great view. read more

This review is for the afternoon tea at Blu. I had the pleasure of being invited to tea with some friends, and dined in a group of 12. The atmosphere is of course upscale, with posh large blue velvety armchairs, white linen tablecloths, dark wood paneling, a fireplace with adjacent sofa seating, and a stunning view of the lake and skyline. I had perused the tea choices online and figured I would go with the vanilla bean Rishi tea. After sniffing all of the tea offerings passed by our tea butler, I was somewhat torn, but since vanilla bean was still on my list after the sniff test (I was also interested in the chocolate chai and the tangerine ginger, plus the cinnamon plum smelled surprisingly good to me), I figured I should stick with my initial instinct. The tea was deliciously rich and smooth, and reminded me of a finely aged oaky scotch. Out of the Victorian Tea food menu ($39 per person), my favorite item was the herb roasted turkey pinwheels with red onion marmalade. Also of note, both the lemon curd and butter served were wonderful. I didn't try the strawberry preserves, which was probably a mistake on my part. I confess that I ate four macaroons. Ladylike? Doubtful, but I couldn't resist trying almost every flavor offered. One seemed to be a coffee/cappuccino flavor, one was lemon, one pistachio and one vanilla. I guess I need to come back and try the chocolate and raspberry ones next! I loved the texture and delicateness of these little cookies. I would consider Blu's afternoon tea good for a classy outing with girlfriends, a treat for mothers and daughters or a special outing for gracious young girls. read more

After arriving into Milwaukee and checking in the hotel, my first stop was Blu. This jazzy little bar sits atop the Pfister Hotel on the 23rd floor and offers a great view of the city. On this particular night, a hazy fog had descended upon the city, making the view all the more impressive. The downtown area has some surprisingly beautiful old buildings within view of here and this is the perfect place to admire the city. Blu offers live music on Friday and Saturday nights. The sounds of Frank Sinatra, The Rat Pack, Ray Charles and the like, seems appropriate for this dimly lit place. The music isn't overly loud, which is nice and allows you to have a conversation without having to yell over the music. Friday night is fishnet Fridays at Blu, so for women who wear fishnet stockings or men who wear fedoras, you receive some sort of drink discount. I didn't actually see any women wearing fishnets or men in fedoras, but almost all patrons were well dressed, from smart casual to semi-formal. The bartenders were mixing up some nice drinks, and I regret not trying something more adventurous than a simple vodka-seven, so be sure to check out the drink menu. While this normally wouldn't be my type of place, I did enjoy it and would highly recommend it if you've never been. Blu is a solid 4 stars in my book! read more

Blu is probably my favorite location in Milwaukee. The first time I went was for Fishnets and Fedoras Friday. At the time, there were $5 martinis for anyone who showed up dressed accordingly. It was a great night of live jazz, cheap drinks, and fun with friends. Blu is at it's best when there is live music, which is only Saturdays and occasional Fridays if I'm not mistaken. The view of the lakefront from 23 floors up, a scotch in one hand and light jazz vocals in your ears...there is no possible way to feel classier in Milwaukee. The layout of this lounge is incredible. Couches and lounge chairs line the windows that cover the entire southern edge of the bar. The dark blue carpeting and blue accents on the bar in the center of the room, coupled with the oak furniture and shelves, set a very relaxing atmosphere. The only issue is seating is very limited. There is seating around the windows and around the bar, but only enough for around 50-60 people at a time. Drinks are pretty expensive. Mostly between 8-15 dollars a glass, some more than that. But considering the environment, it's well worth the money. read more

This is one of my favorite places in the city! Live music, an incredible view of the south and east side of Milwaukee, and good happy hour specials. They also offer ways to give back to charity with their BluTender Battles, which I participated in with Yelp! This is a place I highly recommend taking visitors to Milwaukee, and it's also a great place to take a date. I wouldn't recommend it for bringing kids, though, other than for a brief visit during early hours just to see the view. Then let the adults play. :) read more

Came here with some friends for a drink after work - the bar let an organization come in and bar tend so that all tips could be donated. Not sure if I got the full experience of what it would be like with their regular wait staff. We stuck around a bit after the event. One person in my group got a cheese plate and some chocolate covered strawberries, which seemed a little pricey for what you got. For the selection of beer, I was a little disappointed. Not much on tap other your standard macro-brews. Good selection of liquor from what I saw. The scene started picking up around 9pm (on a Thursday night). If you don't get there before, you might have trouble finding a seat. Toward the time we left (10pm) we struggled to get our waitress' attention to cash out. Perhaps they were understaffed for the night? If you're looking for a fancy place to dress up and grab a drink, this would be your place. The view was also amazing! read more

This is a must go in Milwaukee. The view alone is amazing. If you are lucky enough to be there during fireworks even better. This place is chic and elegant yet comfortable. Quality service and cocktails. read more

Lord knows why I've never been to Blu before, since its in my own city, but there's a first time for everything. The occasion was a randomly thought of 'tini friday' that brought us here after happy hour at the Mason St Grill. The view here is stellar, nobody lies about that. 23 Floors up, you can't really go wrong. The Lake is gorgeous (when its evening, half light), and at night you can get a lit up view of the city scape that can be rather disorienting (or maybe that's the cocktails?). Speaking of cocktails, the list is huge. The specialties are your tasting whiskeys, scotch, 'tinis and other cutesy cocktails created there. and are they GOOD. I'd highly suggest their version of a cosmo. Decor here is all class. It reminded me of the stuff you saw in the titanic remake. stuffy, but comfortable. green paneled walls, leather chairs, etc. Boys Club, Old Money, call it what you want. I wouldnt come here in tennis shoes and a warm up jacket, thats for sure. Blu is a welcome option for dressing up and wishing you were old money (like I did) or actually flaunting and spending said old money (like the other patrons seemed to be doing). Great place, great view, great 'tinis. what more do you want? read more

Arrived for cocktails last evening and I will say, indeed the best view in the city. And go at night, for sure. The best time to go. Cocktail list was ok, but they had someone singing and playing piano, the ambiance was terrific. The pfister is so very elegant from ground up to the top floor. I have to recommend to start or end your night here. read more

Definitely 5 stars. We had a corner suite upgrade that was AHHHHMMMMAAAAAZE-BALLS! The bedding was so plush and cozy I slept like a baby! I didn't want to get up. But when I did, I retreated to the bathroom to soak in the garden tub fit for two! Such a relaxing atmosphere. The clean lines, hardwood floors and recessed lighting were oh so chic and modern. The layout of the corner room was a bit odd but not a deterrent by and stretch. We had a wrap around balcony with a view of the river. It rained pretty much the entire time we were there but it only added to the ambiance. BRAVO! I'll be a repeat offender! read more

Blu is where you'd take a mistress or a first date. Cozy and dark enough that you won't be noticed if things go very well (or very bad). If that's not what you're into, it's also a great place for pre and post-dinner drinks. We visited often for the stellar martinis. read more

I have to admit, I was a skeptic before visiting Blu. A swanky bar on the 23rd floor of a hotel... overpriced drinks, all thoughts that were rolling through my head PRIOR to going to Blu. Turns out Blu is pretty awesome. Are the drinks expensive? Yes, but the view is fantastic and the atmosphere is lounge-y and classy without being pretentious. I wore jeans and a nice top and felt completely fine, while others were in suits. The jazz was good. The waitstaff was great. They didn't bat an eye when we sent back TWO of the four drinks in our second round (tonic flat in one and wrong wine for another). The new drinks were brought out and the waitress agreed they were both not right the first time. read more

Nice view of the city but the service left a lot to be desired. The cocktail waitress was a bit too busy talking to her friends and then randomly servicing tables while the others dos who knows what. My gf wasn't thrilled with her drink but my scotch was a hefty pour! Too expensive for what you get. One drink is all you need before you head somewhere else. I prefer the bar in the lobby which is currently being renovated (9/13/16) and that's where I'll head in the future. Thanks but no thanks. read more

I came here for drinks with friends after a special spa event that the Pfister WELL spa was throwing. We had a few free drink tickets but we also ordered some food - six small plates of various appetizers and desserts. The drinks were fine but the food was an issue. When the server brought out our "tower" of appetizers he told us that they ran out of several of the savory dishes, so he replaced it with more desserts. One of the dishes wasn't even one that we ordered. We asked that he replace a couple of them (sausage, no thanks) with some vegetarian ones and he did, after making excuses. I understand that they got a lot of orders for food but they had a planned event at their own hotel spa and it should come as no surprise that most of those people are going to come up to the bar to take advantage of their free drink tickets. All of the dishes were cold and straight from the fridge. But the worst thing was that one of the banana truffles had mold on it. MOLD. The staff were not apologetic at ALL about running out of half of the appetizer items nor did they apologize about the moldy truffle. Instead of charging us for the six appetizer plates we ordered, they charged us for three. In my opinion, the entire thing should have been free. They served us a moldy dish, for crying out loud! I gave it an extra star because the one time I came here before was a pleasant experience. read more

I'll give 3.5star overall. View is amazing. Drink are good. Service is so so. I had emergency to talk in phone my battery finaished I asked help they didn't really try to help me and told me their phone charging room which is chargers not working. It's nice place to enjoy drinks and see nice view read more

We stopped in on an anniversary trip to Milwaukee based on Yelp reviews and it did not dissapoint. We sat against a window with a cold drink and enjoyed the beautiful views and warm atmosphere. Excellent choice after a visit to the Public Market (Margaritas!). Highly recommended of you are in the area. read more

Blu is my go-to place when I have visitors in town. It's a chance to show people the classier, but still casual side of Milwaukee. The views of the city are amazing (even the bathroom stalls have a great views!!), the drinks are strong and tasty, the free cashews are yummy, and there is usually some great live jazz music to get you in the mood--whether you're with a date or on a Ladies Night Out! I also love walking through the Phister Hotel to get to Blu. The art on the walls and ceiling is fabulous. Another fun perk--if you wear fishnets on Friday you get reduced price martinis and vodka drinks! read more

Service 10 stars-Alison was amazing! People kept bumping into our table and one time spilled a lot of our drinks. Alison made this experience much better and was super attentive even though they were extremely busy. We went on a Saturday night and it was crowded. The music was ok, nothing to write home about. One of the band members was wearing a hoodie-I mean come on-you are there to play jazz! The view is incredible but it definitely isn't a place I would go for music. read more

Blu - Martini - Lounges Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Great place for a classy night out! It's a beautiful place to soak up the MKE skyline with a nice glass of wine. Definitely would recommend. Can't wait to return! read more

What a stunning place- Blu is the cocktail lounge on the 23rd floor of the Pfister Hotel. A group of friends and I had a drink here on the Saturday before Christmas. The place was hopping. Dim lights, lots of candles in colors of blue and white and live jazz music playing in the background. Seating is limited and we were only able to stand. It was fine considering we were only having one drink. The view of Lake Michigan is amazing. Blu is a place that makes you appreciated living in such a vibrant city like Milwaukee. If you're looking for an attitude adjustment in a city known for beer and brats try Blu- your outlook on Milwaukee will be transformed. read more

Fabulous view of the city in the evening. Martinis are good - nothing to write home about. read more

Happy hour is my favorite. This place is posh and the views of Milwaukee are among the best from Blu. A must have for out of town guests as well because they will be able to catch a fabulous craft cocktail and a beautiful view. read more

Me and the wife enjoyed a bottle of wine and the impressive view. Waitstaff was friendly and helpful. As a bonus, we enjoyed the artwork inside the hotel on the way up. Prices were not crazy for a hi rise club with a view, so give it a try without fear of the possible imminent scam. read more

One of my favorite spots in Milwaukee.. mainly because of the view. It's hard to appreciate Milwaukee's beauty from eye level... but from Blu.. it's a different story. Reminds me of Signature Lounge in Chicago. It's not as big but it's something. The higher prices are expected but it is located at one of the nicest hotels in Milwaukee (where the celebrities are known to stay at)... On busy nights it is really hard to get a seat. It's first come first serve until you have bottle service rsvp-ed. We feel old when we go to local dance clubs and feel young when we come here! The crowd is generally older... and there is Live music on some nights. Good atmosphere and service... Pam is the greatest cocktail server =) read more

Blu - Enjoying the view with my bff - Lounges Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Great place to start a dinner date. Dimly lit and secluded, comfortable and intimate, strong drinks and a great view. I have not tried any of their food but if it's anything like their drinks, it's probably great. My wife and I love starting off any night in downtown Milwaukee here. Not a bad place to end the night either. read more

Comfortable, not too pretentious, great views. The drinks are really good but a bit on the pricey side but you'd expect that for a place on the 23rd floor with views. They do have a nice happy hour which is worth checking out. Also, waitress was quick and attentive! We'll go again if we're staying downtown. read more

Good view, but that was the only positive part of going to Blu a few Fridays ago. The waitress was less than attentive, and my drink was horrible. I ordered a specialty drink on the menu--- the Refresher. It was NOT so refreshing. More like, taking a bite out of a lime. Drinks are on the pricier side, but I figured they would at least be good. I should have returned the drink... but our waitress never returned. The other thing that bothered me on this particular night, was the bathrooms here. They smelled like BO the whole night... and you'd think they'd be clean for such a nice hotel. But, they weren't. I expected a lot more. read more

This place is amazing. If you want a high quality cocktail in dim, lush, elegant ambiance, with an amazing view, this is the place. It's on the top floor of the Pfister, which itself is insanely luxurious and full of history. Lovely spot, great staff, perfect experience. read more

I've been to Blu several times over the years. The view is amazing. I decided to bring some out of town friends who had never been before. I was really disappointed, the service was pretty awful. First my partner ordered a bottle of wine for just us and the waitress didn't take the order of our other friends and didn't return with the bottle for 15 minutes... than grabbed our friends order and immediately stated it was last call at 1am when there was about 7 other tables ordering, pretty weird. Than to top it off immediately ran my partners card she had on file, dropped it off and than asked if we wanted to split it??? But she already ran the card???? Luckily we use Venmo but thats something you would ask before hand. It's expensive there so service should be top notch. honestly the only thing good about the night was the view. My guests were not impressed with the service at all. read more

Pretty nice place with great views of the city. The atmosphere is private and inviting. Perfect place to bring your date and actually have a conversation. Quiet and romantic environment, I loved the seats by the windows :) Could be pricey for some, but that's what you are paying for. read more

I love the city of Milwaukee and was very disappointed to have such a disastrous experience. The team was rude and treated us poorly. We were a group of local business owners entertaining a group of employees and it was extremely embarrassing. I hope the employees on duty Thursday receive training on how to navigate difficult circumstances without making people feel less than important. read more

Oh my, what a romantic chic place! The view is spectacular. The atmosphere is great. The live band was really good. We didn't get to stay long because we had reservations downstairs at mason street grill. But definitely would love to come back with friends and make a night of it. Must go here! read more

Gorgeous view, great ambience, and yummy drinks! A Milwaukee must-see!

Came here later in the evening after being at a wedding at the Pfister. It is very...dark inside, so if you're looking for more of a party, this is not the place to go. We were hoping to leave after a couple quick drinks, but the waitress was pretty slow. The following day we had a private brunch and the view of Milwaukee from Blu is great! read more

One of THE most underrated places to get a classy cocktail in Milwaukee. - The view is A-mazing. When it's summertime, you can see the lake and all the downtown bustling about. In the winter, the city looks like a snow globe. Even when it's foggy, the view is great - you feel like you're in Gotham City or something. Even the view in the ladies room is awesome. - The bartenders have always been very kind and the wait staff attentive. These are the bartenders you should trust to order a fancy drink from, because even if it's a bit pricey, they will make it WELL. - The atmosphere during most happy hours is quiet and classy. Not so classy that you feel like you have to be super dressed up though. After all, it is above a hotel, and hotel guests want to wander to the bar in their comfy clothes. That being said, if you're going for a fancy cocktail, you may as well dress up a bit. Great place to go if you want to have a conversation and not be yelling over loud music. Excellent spot to start out an evening. I always take clients/co-workers from out of town to Blu. - The price is higher than your standard bar, but if you're ordering a good drink, it's worth it. Have only tried some of their smaller plate items, and they've all been fine (nothing memorable) but portions were definitely posh (aka small). Note that I've only gone during standard "happy hour" times though - between 5 and 8 pm on weekdays. read more

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Blu was nice, I would give 5 stars but on the particular evening I visited the bartendresses were discussing their personal problems...lol not relaxing. Besides expecting a certain element of class, I enjoyed the brief jazz playing and view. read more

This place is great!!! Fancy and you get a beautiful view of the city and the lake read more

Blu - The beautifully - Lounges Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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The ambiance here is so lovely and cozy. Great view, piano and amazing service. It was pretty slow (4-5 tables) which was perfect for us because we got a spot right by the fireplace! Courtney our server was fantastic and so accommodating to our request for some birthday photos. I highly recommend this place and try the Blackberry Bramble and/or the Good Life read more

Blu - Definitely recommend Courtney the server and Blackberry Bramble and The Good Life - Lounges Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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The craft cocktails here are awesome. The place is old school lounge cool. The bebop era jazz they play matches the decor. The whole place looks like Miles Davis' Kind of Blue sounds...cool. The view over the city and the lake make for a romantic easy going evening. Get here and kick back. read more

Great view. Worst service. Over priced, snooty. I don't think I have ever been spoken to as rudely as I was by the wait staff of Blu. If not for the view and being connected with a hotel, I don't know how they could ever stay in business. I often entertain and will be taking my business elsewhere. read more