Ana and Peter are the most amazing hosts, chef, and, owners. We came for an anniversary dinner and left feeling like it was easily in the top 5 dining experiences ever. This intimate place made us feeling like we were invited to a private dinner party. The food was exquisite. We tried the 7 course tapas meal which we highly recommend. The flan was the best I've ever tried. read more

Fantastic quaint, little Spanish restaurant in the Third Ward. It's only open a few days a week, and with only 5/6 tables, reservations are required. It was one of the most special dining experiences we've ever had in Milwaukee. From the moment we walked in, we felt like we entered the home of an Argentinian chef. In fact, you pretty much having Chef Ana as your own personal chef, with her husband Peter also providing some exceptional hospitality. She came up to our table multiple times during the evening to chat with us and ask us how our meal was. It's pretty amazing that she is the sole chef in the restaurant and is able to prepare all the meals while also checking in with patrons regularly. The food was really good. They have two prefix options, and we went with the paella, with an appetizer, dessert and bottle of rosé. Each course felt thoughtfully curated, beautifully presented, and bursting with authentic flavor. The warm staff and intimacy is something unique and different than anything else we've experienced. It's rare to find a place where you can experience both world-class cuisine and the personal touch of the people behind it. FYI, there is a price to be paid for such wonderful food and service. But for a special occasion, it's well worth the money spent and would be right up near the top of my list. Cavas is truly a hidden gem -- If you're looking for a unique dining experience, I recommend you check it out! read more

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Excellent food and service was top notch from the minute we walked in. Perfect wine recommendation and we felt quality was worth the price

First visit to Cavas. Tremendous experience. Fantastic food in every course. Wine pairings were excellent. Attentive service, Chef Ana and Peter were the perfect hosts. We will definitely be back! read more

If you are looking for an intimate dining experience, look no further than Cavas. This quaint restaurant in the Third Ward leaves no detail overlooked. First, the food was amazing. Chef Ana is incredibly talented and created a unique and delicious menu. We were speechless after the Amuse Bouche, and continued to love every course thereafter. Secondly, the service was second to none. Both Peter and Ana continuously checked in on us and made us feel like family, not just customers. They provided curated wine pairings based on our preference and were incredibly accommodating to dietary restrictions. Our experience at Cavas transported us to Spain and we loved every second (and morsel). Already looking forward to our next opportunity to return! read more

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This restaurant is owned and operated by a wonderful couple; she's a great chef and he greets and serves you like you're family. The food is outstanding and simply delicious. There's both uniqueness and comfort as well as just good flavors in all the dishes. read more

Cavas - Spanish Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

This is a gem of a place ran by husband and wife. Attention to detail in every aspect!! Food was exceptional!! Don't pass this place up!!

Cavas is a favorite of ours, the intimacy the owner brings every time is unreal. She learned our names and utilized them throughout our meal. The food was some of the most amazing food I have had in my life. You can tell these recipes have been passed down from generations. The owner mentioned that her empanada recipe is a recipe that has been passed down. I didn't used to like empanadas and this restaurant taught me that I actually like REAL empanadas! We love doing during the warmer months so we can sit outside, since the place is smaller. Highly recommend. read more

Excellent service, food presentation and vibes. Third ward price level if you know you know. It's prefect for a date night or small group gatherings. Everybody is so friendly here. We like the mushroom and bread appetizer - pretty simple and straightforward but they do it well. The seafood and chicken paella tastes good but it's mushy and more like a risotto. The lamb is very juicy and tender - although I didn't taste any strong unpleasant lamb flavor, I did taste the strong wine that is used to cook the lamb. Food is more like 4 stars to me, but the presentation is definitely 5 stars. read more

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Wonderful dinner we ate at the bar and enjoyed Ana's company as she made the eight course dinner. Everything we had as so amazing not just the taste but the presentation. This is a must if you live in the area or just visiting but reservations are very difficult to get don't stop trying. read more

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I have literally never met a ruder staff. hours did not reflect what was posted, the woman behind the bar made statements about how we would "never be able to be seated" which was incredibly odd considering there was no one in the restaurant and we were not in unacceptable attire. I would understand if they said they could only seat us for a quick drink before reservations, but no offer of such. Truly, really really poor service by the woman and unfortunately would not even want to try it coming back, which sucks because it seems like a small family run spot. This behavior is what I would assume from corporate spots. Saddened to glean that it was likely the chef who we interacted with. Wish I could give a half star for the nice man that recommended other spots. This is solely a 1.5 because of him. read more

What an incredible experience! The owners, Ana and Peter, made us feel so welcomed, as if we were in their own home. She prepares authentic dishes her mother used to make and you can see how proud she is to share them with guests. Peter serves the dishes and does such a great job thoroughly explaining how Ana prepared them and even her intent behind some of the ingredients used. They use their own home-grown, organic herbs which is always a plus. We had a group of four and each did the 7-course tasting menu and also shared the "Paella for two". All of the food was beautifully prepared & presented and was so flavorful! This was truly a dining experience and we will definitely dine here again!! read more

Wow, this place is a total gem. When you walk in, you are warmly greeted by the staff. Take note, there only about 5-6 tables in the place, so reservations are highly recommended. I really loved the vibe of the place. It seems like you are spending the day at your local cafe with gorgeous little plates! Chef Ana is very talented and the food was incredible. They serve tapas where you are meant to share each dish. Every dish was beautifully presented with fresh flowers and herbs. So pretty! Stuffed dates (4pcs): very rich and creamy. Your perfect sweet and salty combination. EMPANADAS DE TRADICIONALES DE CARNE: these were a little savory and a sweet. So so good. I regret not buying frozen ones to take home!!! EMPANADAS DE CERDO: very good PATO a la NARANJA - Duck: the duck was perfectly cooked and so succulent with the orange glaze! VALENCIANA PAELLA: this dish was so flavorful from the spices and meat. It really is a comforting food! FLAN - A LA ANA: the flan was very creamy and served with cute little gummy bears MANZANA ASADA: who knew baked apples with a bit of whipped cream would be so tasty?! Overall- highly recommend this place for dinner! read more

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If you can't be in Europe, then please, be here. We so enjoyed our dinner the other evening. Food, drinks, and ambiance was distinct. Ana and her co-host were great and accommodating. It was a unique and relaxing experience that we both enjoyed. read more

Wow, what a spectacular experience. I undoubtedly back up all the wonderful reviews about Cavas that detail what a great little restaurant this is. From the atmosphere, to the warming staff, and impeccable food... I've already been boasting about this place to friends. My mom and I stopped in on Friday night. Knowing this place is super tiny, I wasn't sure we'd get a spot, but we came early enough to beat the dinner crowd. We sat at the bar, so small and quaint it only has four seats. Ana, the sweet sweet owner, was a delight to chat with. You can tell she pours love into her business and every dish on the menu! We wanted to go off of her recommendations, which ended up being the empanadas first and foremost. When I say these are the best empanadas I have ever eaten, I am in no way exaggerating. The tradicionales de carne, which is a family recipe from Ana's mother, has this delicate sweetness to it, as the beef is cooked with a caramelized sugar. It's not too much either, but just right! I was even more of a fan of the slow cooked pork empanada. Cooked to perfection and mixed with the most flavorful of seasonings. The deep fried dough that holds the meat is melt-in-your-mouth perfection. We also shared the pimeiento pepper which was filled with melty goat cheese, chorizo and almonds. Along with it came an artisan baguette for dipping/scooping and some kind of tasty Spanish green sauce. 5/5. Along with our shared plates, I ordered a house prepared margarita and my mom had their signature sangria. Both were not only delicious, but so pretty in their presentation. The ambiance here just elevated the experience. So well decorated, sweet plate ware, and Spanish music to set the tone. Such an enjoyable experience! Really looking forward to bringing my husband here, as I know he'll love it just as much. read more

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I met a friend for dinner at Cavas tonight. It was my first time here, although I've dined at Kasana, which was the owner's other restaurant a few years ago. My friend had the Paella de Mariscos (seafood paella), and I ordered the Paella Mixta, with a combination of meat and seafood (chicken, chorizo, pork shoulder, shrimp, amd mussels). I also ordered the Empanadas Tradicionales made with Chef Ana's mother's recipe of ground beef, cumin, caramelized sugar, green olive, and hard boiled egg, with a housemade chimichurri, which is Chef Ana's father's recipe. We also shared the Tortilla Espanola amd Flan for dessert. The paella was served hot in a hot paella (pan, hence the dish name paella). The flavors and textures were great! The empanadas were crispy and rich in flavor! The flavor and texture of the tortilla was also on point! We each ordered flan for dessert. The custard-like dessert was topped with whipped creme Chantilly and an edible flower while sitting on a Spanish brandy that tasted a bit like coffee to me. read more

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Went to Cavas for the first time for a date night and had a wonderful time. The place is pretty small and intimate so highly recommend making a reservation as they have a limited number of bar seats available for walk ins. All of the food that we had was absolutely wonderful. The empanadas were definitely our favorite. There were many things on the menu that looked so good, and we are excited to go back soon! read more

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Cavas was great! We sat at the bar and the service was great, everyone was super helpful and nice! The food was delicious, my favorite was the empanadas! We tried the mother's recipe ones. There wasn't anything we tried we didn't like and it was nice because almost every option we tried was a mix of sweet and savory, I will definitely be back soon this is already a Milwaukee favorite for me and I've only been once! read more

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This place was so cozy and perfect, very small and elegant. The food was unique and delicious - we started with the empanadas arabes and they were so cozy and yummy. The chicken fricasse was unique and really rich and not what I was expecting, but perfect cold weather food. I came from out of town with my friend and we both loved it. I would definitely come back when I'm in town! Omg and the baked provolone with lavender home was *chefs kiss*. Can't miss. read more

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Thank you, Chef Ana, for sharing your food with us! We had a wonderful time at Cavas and enjoyed the meal immensely. All the dishes were visually stunning; I especially appreciated the herbs and flower decorations from the chef's garden. My favorite part of the meal was the empanadas. Both pork and beef were succulent and bursting with flavor. Equally tasty was the chimichurri sauce. The paella was a hefty portion and I liked the flavors, but for my palette, it was a little salty. Loved the flan for dessert. The restaurant interior is small, but bright and welcoming. Definitely worth a visit if you're in Milwaukee. read more

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Went here for special date night and it was wonderful. Run by a husband and wife only, very small with limited seating. We had the eight course dinner which was excellent. The creamed corn appetizer, duck and desserts were very good. Probably the best lamb I've ever had. Highly recommended. read more

My wife and I went here for our wedding anniversary and had never been. We couldn't have been happier with our experience. I highly recommend making a reservation in advance as they only have 5 tables and some counter space. This made for an intimate dining experience though! The owner greeted us upon arrival as did the wait staff. We had a two speciality cocktails and one tapas (mushrooms) before having the duck and flank steak entrees. Everything had amazing flavor and the portion was just right. We can't wait to go back! read more

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We can't say enough about this gem of a restaurant. We were looking for a special way to celebrate our anniversary and saw its fantastic reviews but it exceeded our expectations. Cook Ana's tasting menu, creatively blends her mother's Spanish traditions with the influence of Argentina and Brazil where she first became a chef and every bite was incredible. But the intimacy of this small restaurant (only 14 people the night we dined) and the lavish attention of Ana and Peter also added to the experience. The two of them greet you at the door, take orders, cook the meals and stop by your table to converse and attend to your needs, all with humor, grace and kindness. You leave feeling like you've made a friend who invited you into their home. read more

Back again! Tonight we took home sixty (yes, six-zero) empanadas. We had to go back and make sure our first impression wasn't a fluke. Usually when we give a restaurant a second chance it's because we are trying to be forgiving of some kind of error, maybe it was a "off" night... but every once in a while, we have to go back because the first try was SO good, maybe we were just super hungry or inebriated and it wasn't as good as we thought. So we did, we went back to double check and make sure Cavas is as dreamy the second time as it was on our first visit, and let me tell you: the hype is real!! As I stand in my kitchen, vacuum-sealing an unreasonable quantity of frozen empanadas, I ponder what constitutes the magnetic pull of Cavas that makes me want to skip every other restaurant on our rare date-nights away from the kids, and it's a lot of things. It's the food, for sure. Chef Ana is so talented with flavors and textures and plating. But it's also the intimacy of the restaurant, and it's also the drinks, and it's the casual vibe, and the personal touch of Chef asking you how you're enjoying your food. But more than anything, it's the authenticity of it all. When you read the menu and it says that the two empanada flavors are her mother and father's recipes, you believe it because you're talking to the woman who grew up in Argentina. Maybe it's the millennial in me, but authenticity matters to me. The people I remember most are the ones who were real with me. Not the consummate professionals, the black suit and bow tie-donned waiter that carefully scrapes the crumbs from the white linens with a special tool in his breast pocket. Fuck all that. We need more Ana's in business, in life. Keep on keeping on, lady. I love your food, I love you as a person, and I hope this review reaches a bajillion people, even if that means I can't walk in and sit at the bar without a reservation on a random Thursday night. XOXO read more

Cavas - Frozen empanadas to go! - Spanish Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

This is literally the best restaurant in Milwaukee. Hands down. The paella is a life changing experience and I did not eat food that was this good in Spain itself. The staff were so very nice as well! The empanadas were absolutely incredible and definitely get the stuffed red pepper as well! The atmosphere was also incrediblly beautiful and the presentation of the food was stunning! Next time you're looking to have a nice night out, head here. read more

Cavas - Spanish Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

How have I not reviewed Cavas before??? I love this place - it is tiny and packed and feels like you're in a tiny Spanish bar. The drinks are spirit forward but delicious and the sangria is basically like I'm back in Madrid. I love the gold silverware and the mismatched plates - definitely adds to the ambiance. The food is exceptional - lots of beautiful Spanish classics like tortilla and patatas bravas but with a modern twist. This is definitely where to go with your foodie friends because you'll want to share and try everything! We also got the paella which was phenomenal - perfectly flavored. Chef Ana takes lots of pride in her work (rightfully so!) and she is so very lovely as a person. She makes it a point to greet everyone who is there for dinner in a way that you feel like she genuinely cares about you. Exceptional hidden gem that transports you right to Spain! read more

Welcome to Ana's house. if there were an award I could give for one restaurant per year that deserves the highest honor, it's Cavas. After living in Milwaukee for the last 12 years, Cavas is officially my most favorite restaurant in the city, state and Midwest. I can't believe this hidden gem is here in our city! It felt like we teleported to Spain, South America or NYC. The ambiance created by Ana, Josh and her team is one of pure magic. From the music, to the plates and silverware... I'm still thinking about the pure joy I felt being in such a wonderful atmosphere. My date asked me what I wanted for dinner last week and I've made a rule to go to only new places I haven't been to before. I thought, paella. A quick search online and boom cavas popped up. I gave them a call and was greeted by the most wonderful individual Josh who had a table for 2 at 8:00 on a Friday night. This place is small and the intimacy it creates is one that people search life times for in their friendships. Even if it's a nice day, try to sit inside so you can bare witness to the magic Ana, Josh and her team creates while they cook with love to bring you full bellies. The entire experience is like watching a concert or live art right in front of you, especially if you sit at the bar. The staff provides a comfortable and flowy experience to its patrons and makes sure you have everything you need to enjoy your experience. And the food!!! We didn't even get paella because we knew we wanted to try so many things (we will be back for the paella, they have an awesome special for 2 that includes paella, dessert and a bottle of bubbles!) We ordered the cheese plate (oh my goodness) with freshly made bread that when you pull it apart a wave a steam releases, be sure to give it a smell if you're a bread lover like me. Next up: bacon wrapped dates... you must try these if they are on your 'yes I can eat this' list of foods. Next we had the pimiento. (Insert jaw dropping emoji here) The almonds, chorizo, pepper... this is what we eat in heaven right? The flavors dance in your mouth and evolve as they ingredients take you on a journey to experience divine flavors. Now let me tell you something. If you're going to try only one thing on the menu, you must have the empanadas. We had the beef. I've never had an empanada that made me wish it was the only thing I had in my diet. I didn't grab a photo of this item which I sort of love because I was able to experience it fully with full presence and take in all the flavors. Topped with the house made chimichurri and you will be in that heavenly state. For all my dessert people and the ones who only divulge every once in awhile, this is the place to allow yourself to have dessert. There were two different items that I cannot even put into words other than say yes when the time comes when the sever asks you if you'd like dessert. Flan A La Ana, Crema De Chocolate. As for my rule about not repeating places, I will gladly break that as Cavas is now my favorite restaurant in the entire state of WI. Thank you Ana Banana, Josh and Emma! read more

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Cavas has been on my quarantine walking route, and I was pleasantly surprised its doors open late this afternoon. The staff was really friendly and informed me that they offer carryout from 5p-7p until they are able to open up. It was just before 4pm, and they kindly let me place an order to pick up at 5pm. Their curbside pickup menu offered a variety of dishes from paella to tacos to empanadas. I thought I was having a good day, and then I ate their pork and beef empanadas. I have been craving empanadas for a solid 3 weeks, and boy, did those things make me want to eat empanadas daily! They were outstanding on their own, and the chimichurri on the side was phenomenal. I'm glad they are within walking distance because I'll be back! read more

Cavas - Spanish Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

One of the most unique dining experiences in Milwaukee. The owners are cooking and serving you with great attention to detail. It's a pretty restaurant with pretty glasses and place settings. We had the price fixe paella dinner for 2. The mushroom appetizer was something I'll be craving until my next visit. Delicious paella and the flan was the perfect ending. It's a must visit and must return! read more

Ana, your lifetime passion for creating extraordinary hospitality experiences is expressed in every facet of Cavas. I should have attended a meeting tonight, but a train crossing with no end in sight provoked me to make a u turn, skip my meeting, and head home. And then my intuition kicked in and a voice whispered "go to Cavas." I pulled up across the street and admired the jewel box appearance - all glass, art and curated bottles and accessories. I walked in and instantly felt a welcoming vibe. You smiled and invited me in. I fell in love. An extraordinary Spanish wine list and specialty cocktails. House made Vermut. Small batch Mezcal. Ana's menu is devoted to sharing. She recommends that try at least 3 small plates to appreciate her tapas. Alas, as a single diner, I ordered a single plate - GAMBAS AL AJILLO. Simply the best-prepared shrimp that I have ever eaten in my life - perfectly flavored crustaceans with rare perfect texture. Fresh is the flavor here. My sweet tooth demanded that I order the FLAN - A LA ANA. Amazing depth of sweetness and tartness. OMG. Wish I recorded the name of a smoked cocktail that was delicious. Also wish I could remember the name of her Chef - he's amazing - and her elite staff. I bought them all a round of drinks to thank them for one of the best Milwaukee restaurant experiences I've had. Wishing Ana and Cavas great success - I'll be back soon. read more

Cavas - Nostalgia craft cocktail. - Spanish Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Absolutely amazing experience! Chef Ana is so talented. Let her guide your journey. You won't be disappointed.

My wife and I had the paella for two, and it wonderful! The starters were delicious and the desert was heavenly. The ambience and the service were friendly and efficient. read more

Chef Ana and the team at Cavas are flat out incredible. No other word to describe the experience of eating at Cavas. You can taste the love in every bite of food coming out of this tiny place. Came with friends who have been traveling the world eating for decades and who agreed it is as good as anywhere they have ever eaten. I'm visiting from the SF Bay Area and would love to come back next time I'm in Milwaukee. Thank you, Cavas! read more

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The food was phenomenal and the ambience was top notch. The waitress and owner checked up on us throughout the service. We got the mixed paella for two which comes with a huge portion easily enough for two and it comes with a bottle of white wine and a choice of two desserts for $80!!! What a steal. Great location, food, service, and ambience. Highly recommend- :) read more

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So small yet everything about it is wonderful! Only about 5 tables and run by husband and wife (who is the chef).

A great experience. A very small restaurant with few tables. The owners were very welcoming and we enjoyed all of our food.

Cavas isn't really a restaurant as much as I would consider it a small place to gather with friends and enjoy time around the table. If Spain had a word for hygge this would be it. On the night we went it was just the owner and the bartender (and I'm sure that's what it's like most nights as the place is very small and the bar/kitchen area can't fit much more). They both talked to us throughout the night to make our meal as pleasant as possible, explaining about the wine and the food as we went. The cocktails were really good. My husband had the empanadas which he said were delicious. The rest of the food wasn't my favorite but it wasn't by any means bad, I just had different expectations of what we would be getting. I hear they change the menu quite often so I'd be happy to go back and try other things. It is quite pricey so we will set aside a special date night to return. read more

Cavas - Sangria - Spanish Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

We were looking for a special experience. Cavas was worth discovering in Milwaukee's Historic Third Ward. Chef Ana's Spanish & Argentinian tapas dishes were so good, the paella was my favorite! Try the Humo Suave for a smoked cocktail. Sangria was great also. A great experience. Bon appetit! read more

Cavas - Seafood paella! - Spanish Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

My wife and I went here for our first wedding anniversary, and everything was incredible. Chef Ana and Peter were some of the most personable people I have ever met, and Chef Ana prepares the most elegant and amazing food I have ever had. It is a restaurant in Milwaukee, but you travel across the world when the dishes arrive. I will be telling everyone I know about this! read more

One of my favorite restaurants in Milwaukee. It is tiny, cozy and full of character, largely owing to chef Ana, a true firecracker! She greets you loudly and warmly and you immediately feel transported out of Milwaukee to a charming village somewhere in southern Europe. Drinks that follow are top notch: Cava's wine selection is superb and fits the atmosphere. And the food...! Best paella and empanadas I have ever tried on both sides of the Atlantic. Ana infuses food with her vibrant personality and the result is spectacular. read more

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