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

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

This owner is one of the most genuinely kind people I've Ever met and the food is amazing! The small space makes for a great quiet date night read more

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Excellent food! The menu is my favorite: La tabla (for 2), hongos a la Pepa, Tortilla española, empanadas, paella....and much more! All gourmet food, and a lovely selection of wines. Highly recommended :) read more

Cavas - Ready for dinner!! - Spanish Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

At last, the awaited reopening of Cavas! I was drawn to the Spanish and Latin dishes on this menu, findings that one would be hard-pressed to find in any city, so it was a delight to finally try this restaurant. Cavas is wonderfully small and intimate, with a little bar area and just a few tables (their capacity is just 16!). It reminded me of some of the tapas bars I've been to in Spain, and on the rainy night I was there, there was a perfect cozy ambiance. I came here on a double date, and our group remarked several times that it felt like we were at a private dinner party. Since it's located slightly off of the main area of the Third Ward, parking was not too difficult to find. We were drooling from the moment we opened the menu- so many tantalizing options! Our wonderful waitress guided us through her recommendations for what to order. For appetizers, we decided on the guaca/salsa [$14], hongos a la pepa [$16], and pao de queijo [$14]. I found that the guaca/salsa was a little too sweet for my taste- not sure about the addition of honey-, but it was nonetheless unique and fun to try. The hongos were divine! Perfectly seasoned, impossibly addictive, with a flavor similar to escargot. These were so tasty, and I highly recommend ordering this dish! We also loved the pao de queijo. After several years of trying to subsist on the sub-par Trader Joe's frozen version, Chef Ana's version was an absolute delight. A light and slightly chewy texture, savoriness from the cheese, and the tomato jam was a fun addition that we enjoyed trying. For our entrees, we shared the pato a la naranja [$24] and the paella special for two [$80]. My friend and I immediately zeroed in on the pato when we first perused the menu. The duck breast was cooked perfectly, with a savory, juicy, and satisfying texture that paired well with the aligot-like potato puree on the side. This was a homey dish that would be perfect to enjoy in the chilly Milwaukee winter. The paella special for two came with a bottle of sparkling wine and two desserts, which is a great value. We opted for the paella de mixta, which had generous portions of a variety of meats and seafood. There were four pieces each of the larger seafood, so it was great for sharing; everyone got to try a bit of everything. Although I felt the paella was a little mushy for my personal taste, and missing the socarrat, overall, it did not disappoint! It can be really hard to find a decent paella in the States, and I think this might be one of the best renditions I've had so far. This was the perfect amount of food for 4 people. To round out our meal, we tried the flan a la Ana [$9] and crema de chocolate [$9]. These were heavenly! The flan was exceptional. Many restaurants can make flan, but few can do it well. So creamy and delicate! The crema de chocolate, which combined the flavors of passionfruit and dark chocolate, reminded me of one of my favorite desserts of all time- the macaron Mogador from Pierre Herme. I have never seen this combination outside of Europe, and it was an absolute dream to be able to experience it in Wisconsin! The savory and sweet dishes were all artfully plated with edible flowers to add a bright pop of color. The service was thoughtful and warm. It really felt like I was dining at a friend's house or a dinner party. Our waitress was amazing and very attentive; she definitely had us excited about every dish that was brought to the table. For those who don't drink, or who prefer not to attempt an entire bottle of wine at the restaurant, the staff will happily package the bottle included in the paella special to be taken to-go. Toward the end of our meal, Chef Ana actually came out of the kitchen to chat with us! It was clear from our conversation that she delights in seeing how much diners enjoy her food, and she shared her extensive experience in the restaurant industry. There is so much love invested into this restaurant and her cooking. Cavas is a must-try, by far one of the best restaurants in Milwaukee! The delicious food combined with the personal and considerate service makes Cavas an exceptional place, not only for this city, but I would say for the Midwest as a whole. read more

Such a beautiful, small intimate place. We had a reservation for 7pm, but the table before us took nearly an hr to leave AFTER eating, which was slightly frustrating (but not the restaurant's fault). The owner, Ana, was so sweet and gave us complimentary appetizers and let us open our cava bottles we were going to have with dinner while we waited for our table. We had the privilege of going to Barcelona last summer so we were super excited to try out Cavas and see how the food would compare. We were not disappointed at all! We got the seafood paella and the combination paella, both so good and the shrimp was probably the best, and juiciest, well cooked shrimp I've ever had. Everyone else in my group agreed. We also ordered two of each of the empanadas (corn, carne, and pork). All three were surprisingly equally delicious and full of flavor. The chimichurri that came on the side was addicting -- simple and clean flavors that paired so beautifully with the savory empanadas. We got to try each of the desserts as well -- the flan was nice and not too sweet. It had a nice caramelization on the bottom. The chocolate mousse wasn't too sweet either which I liked, with a nice cream on top and a tart passionfruit coulis that brightened it up. The tiramisu was probably my favorite though. It had the perfect balance of coffee and chocolate flavors. This restaurant definitely made us miss Spain even more, but in the best way. Definitely looking forward to coming here again to try their other entrees and cocktails! read more

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We walk past Cavas every day with the dog (and peek in the windows) and had been waiting anxiously for them to open the doors. We finally made it over for early afternoon cocktails during their soft opening, before the health crisis closure (here's lookin at you, covid..) Wow, just wow! Ana has absolutely outdone herself and we absolutely cannot wait for Cavas to reopen. Cavas is a fairly small space with bar seating, 2-seater tables and a handful of 4-seater tables. It's elegant and classy but the Latin music and loud ambiance spices it up into a place where you would want to let loose and dance, if only there was room! There were a few tables with "reserved" signs on them so I do believe they take reservations and I would recommend to do so because they filled up. Quick! We had Ana choose our bubbly for us, based on our preferred palate and boy did she nail it. We paired a few different glasses with the bread and tomato jam and the mushroom tapas, both of which were outstanding. The baked mushrooms...wow! Highly recommend! The icing on the cake of our Cavas experience was Ana herself. She's a lively, talkative woman who runs the show from behind the bar, twirling, dancing, singing and slinging drinks. Bonus: super cool watching her make smoke infused cocktails with her special contraption (see video). Cavas is currently offering special Paella dishes for pickup- check out their website! Can't wait to try this weekend! read more

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I wish I could give them more than 5 stars. The food was spectacular. I've had the privilege to travel lots and eat lots of food around the world. The Paella we ordered was just as good as, if not better than, any Paella I've had anywhere else in the world. The Empanadas had the most flaky pastry crust, and delicious fillings. The Oysters were fresh and delicious. The sangria was so flavorful, and the mint in it was the perfect thing for a summer evening. And then... There's the Flan. I should have listened to our server Sean. He told me it was the best thing on the menu, but I got the Chocolate Mouse (which was also very good), while my wife got the Flan. I should have listened. The Flan was... flantastic... But seriously, it was very good. Don't be like me. Listen to Sean. Quite frankly, this has to be the best new restaurant in Milwaukee. Not only for quality of food and service, but for the value as well. You will not be disappointed. read more

Cavas - Spanish Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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What a beautiful intimate space, the owner Ana is engaging and classy..she creates beautiful drinks and dishes .. there's no where like it in Milwaukee read more

Cavas has taken over the top spot as my favorite place in MKE. Quirky server, awesome chef Ana with her family recipes. Absolutely wonderful small plates. Everything beautifully presented and tastes even better read more

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Anna and her crew have it all! This is a place not to miss out in Milwaukee! There's absolutely nothing on this menu I don't want again! Don't miss out on Anna's empanadas, or just tell her to make you some food ! She will not disappoint! 5 stars without a doubt!!! Vacation sit and spread the word! read more

Amazing, bacon wrapped dates, papaya was amazing!! Service was amazing, drinks were great!!! read more

Intimate (seats 15+4 at the bar) Ana and crew greet you warmly and made fantastic recommendations for our meal. We got a pre warm up nibble of crisps and a creamy corn dip. I ordered a red sangria and my daughter had mint cherry orange mocktail. Both were refreshing. We started our dining with tapas- small plates. with a mix of empanadas served with chimichurri, stuffed pimento, and some tortilla espanola. All delicious. We then jumped into duck with a side of mashed potatoes, and shrimp and mussels in broth. If I could describe the food, 1) it was very authentic and 2) YUM! You know when a restaurant is great? When they don't put salt and pepper on the table. None of the food needed any additional seasoning. We topped off with dessert duo. We tried both the flan and the mouse. A lovely end to the meal. We will be back. Reservations are highly recommended. read more

Unbelievable! You will fall in love with Chef Anna, and you will be in heaven when you taste her food! She is an artist. This is by far one of the best restaurants in Milwaukee. read more

Since COVID, I've found the restaurant experience in general to be disappointing. The food doesn't seem as good, the service is rarely as good - I'm not sure if I've changed and my standards are just higher because I cook pretty well myself or if the higher prices just have crossed some line for me where it doesn't feel justified in terms of cost for what you get. But man, Cavas was an exception to this and then some! My husband and I came for a date night out and had the best evening. The server was fantastic and the food was DELICIOUS. Dishes that were truly unique and perfectly prepared. The owner came by to check on us and she was just lovely. The total bill wasn't cheap, but unlike with most other places, it was 100% worth it. A charming, intimate space added to the experience. Put this at the top of your list for places to hit in Milwaukee! read more

I made reservations a month ago. Called - at least I was given 2 days notice- that they were canceling. Apparently they have a catering event during the weekend to prepare for. No offer to reschedule or provide some sort of compensation- drink on the house or something Very inconvenient to find new reservations at this point Will not be rebooking read more

What a great restaurant! Great food. Great service. Great atmosphere! We love Anna the owner and the entire experience. read more

Very nice staff and owner! Honestly could have only ate the empanadas and would have been extremely satisfied! The empanadas are really soooo delicious read more

Fantastic! Best empanadas I ever had. The owners are lovely. Fabulous meal. Nice ambiance.

We've only ordered from Cavas once, but it was so lovely I have to give five stars right away for a spot that opened during such a tough year and is making absolutely delicious food. We placed our order over the phone and the gentleman who took the call was so friendly and even more so when we arrived to pick up! The deconstructed empanadas were a different take I hadn't encountered before and were so yummy! We had some great apps and drinks too, and you certainly get bang for your buck on the drinks! I saw some people seated outside near heaters at the time, but not sure if that is ongoing for the winter. Looks like a darling, cozy spot that I look forward to eating at in the future! read more

Excellent food and service. Queso fundido and Valenciana paella on point. Delicious sangria and cava. Woman in the kitchen (business owner?) working her ass off putting up food as well as greeting/serving tables. Literally no complaints - will be back! read more

Cavas - Spanish Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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What was a promising start - with delicious empanadas - descended into a disappointing, bland, overpriced waste. I've traveled through Spain and have eaten authentic Paella in Valencia, tortilla throughout, and various dishes in Barcelona, Girona, Madrid, Donostia, et al and I was extremely disappointed and a bit angry at the food (at exorbitant prices) at Cavas. The paella had the wrong type of rice (if I can procure bomba and calasparra at the local Sendiks, they can too - and for $32, they should), the Matambre Argentino was a sad, gray, overcooked, and under seasoned teeny piece of $28 meat (and, given the size, we didn't even finish it because it was so tasteless and bland), there was nothing special about the $22 Cazuela with 4 pieces of shrimp and 4 mussels, the Torta Española's ratio of potatoes to egg was off in the wrong way (btw, Area Grande Restaurante in Pontevedra has the best I've tasted so far); and lastly, the $9 chocolate mousse was incredibly subpar, it just made me so sad (I just made a beautiful mousse last week). Overall, for what you get with the price (our total bill was $194 before tip), you're better off going to Movida. read more

Cavas, wine, homemade cocktails and amazing food Ana and her team make for a wonderful experience. Excited to be able to become a regular! read more

Cavas - Cavas and family recipe flan= favorite third ward experience! - Spanish Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

We had the most wonderful dining experience at Cavas with Chef Ana. Cavas is an intimate and gorgeous venue. The service was exceptional. Everything was delicious and beautiful -- cocktails, appetizers, small plates, mains, dessert -- every single thing was exquisite. The entire evening was such a pleasure and we cannot wait to go back! read more

Great food, we especially liked the duck, the stuffed dates and the pork empanadas were delicious. Sangria and traditional margarita both good, the tamarind margarita was divine. A very small restaurant, so it was a bit cramped and loud. We would try to sit at the bar next time! read more

Great food, intimate small space. The chef cooks wonderful food with some very authentic flavors. would highly recommend.

What an amazing find the quaint restaurant was for me and my husband. We were looking for a new place downtown and Cavas appeared in my search. We have taken family and friends there several times and recently held a private event there. Everyone we have introduced to this hidden Milwaukee gem has enjoyed their visit! Ana never disappoints! Her culinary skills are fantastic and we have sampled most all of what is offered on the menu. Some of our absolute favorites are the Pimiento, stuffed dates, empanadas, paella and all of the desserts. I could seriously list all of the offerings on the menu as there is nothing we haven't enjoyed. My only caution is if you don't want to be disappointed ... Make a Reservation! I wouldn't want anyone to set their sights on a fabulous dinner at Cavas and it be too busy to get in. read more

Five starts restaurant. Is like been at home. Chef Ana make you feel as a part of a Family. She takes care of every detail on each plate that leaves the kitchen. Tonight We tried beef and pork empanadas, dates fill with goat cheese and chorizo, the Pimento, the duck and the mixed paella. All the dishes are full of delicious Flavors characteristic of the Latin American cuisine. Desserts, the Flan and panacotta is hard decision to choose which one is the best. Drinks, Sangria is highly recommended. The service was absolutely amazing. We really love having chef Ana sitting at our table taking about what we think about the food and her restaurant. Is a hidden gem at Milwaukee third ward. read more

Amazing food, amazing services, delicious flavors. A must new try! Ana brings all the flavors of Spain to Milwaukee for a unique and intimate experience. read more

Stumbled upon this place and was treated to a great night. The date wrapped bacon was perfectly sweet salty and flavorful. Paella was delicious read more

Love this restaurant! Chef and owner Anna is amazing... such great energy and a wonderful chef. This restaurant has a cozy, family feel with authentic cooking that is delicious! read more

After going to Cavas, I can't believe that I haven't gone sooner and also that they don't have more reviews. The place is a gem. I went for an early dinner on a Saturday, called the night before for a reservation, which I had no trouble getting, then called the next day to ask to move up the reservation, which also wasn't a problem. I went with a friend and we ordered the empanadas de choclo (corn) and de cerdo (pork). Both were truly fantastic--the chips and empanada dough were fried so well, the consistency of the dough was great, and the filling/dip was amazing. I could have eaten another order, no problem. Also, there was a random drunk guy who stopped to ask my friend and I where he could buy cigarettes. The chef came out after he left to ask if he was bothering us and to apologize--we were fine, but it was so kind and thoughtful as many restaurant treat sitting outside as "at your own risk." Thanks for a wonderful experience! read more

Tried this place a few weeks ago. The duck was amazing. Drinks were good. The service was awesome. I usually don't do dessert, but the dinner was so good I wanted to try something. The flan dessert is the best I've ever had. Small place so will need reservation read more

Awesome experience - great environment and amazing service. Food and drinks were excellent. Will definitely return. read more

Cavas - Paella - Spanish Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Amazing food and atmosphere. Owner engaged with us multiple times and service was incredible.

Amazing little gem with great food and drinks. Great date night spot! The empanadas were our fave dish of the night!

Wow wow wow!!!!!!! I've lived in Milwaukee for over 15 years and this is hands down one of the best dining experiences I've ever had!!! The food is to die for, the ambiance is amazing, and the owner and staff are some of the most lovely people I've ever met. I can't wait to go back!!! read more

We came here in September and it was the perfect outdoor dining experience! We made a reservation the day of. We only had to wait about 15 minutes while one of the tables was wrapping up their meal. We ordered some sangria and walked along the river while we waited -- not a bad waiting experience! We were seated outside. The service was phenomenal and the paella/champagne/dessert deal was fantastic. The paella was authentic and served a very hearty portion. The serving staff was very friendly and helpful when answering questions. They always made sure our glasses were full and regularly checked on us. This is definitely my favorite place for paella in the city and such a cute little neighborhood spot. You've gotta check it out! read more

What a magical place! I felt like we were transported to Spain! The owner served us and was incredibly gracious and clearly proud of her establishment which was inspiring to see. We had sangria and oysters, which I'll be dreaming about for days. Please give this worthy tapas restaurant a try! read more