La Dama was a mixed bag experience for me. I loved this space when it was Crazy Water so I was excited to try this. The space is really cool and inviting. The drinks were tasty, but the reason for my 3 star review is unfortunately due to the food. Particularly a misleading menu and a few things that don't make much sense. We ordered the queso fundido. My wife can't have dairy so she asked for a side of salsa. I've been to hundreds of Mexican/Latin restaurants and this is typically always served with tortilla chips. Here, the queso comes with 4 small pieces of toasted bread, so my wife sat there with her little cup of salsa and nothing to dip into it. The menu looked great. $24 for 3 tacos is a little pricey, but the ingredients looked exciting. I noticed they had Huitlacoche, which caught my eye! I've always wanted to try it and have never even seen it on a menu before so I knew this is what I was going to order. I got 2 huitlacoche and one of the pork belly tacos. When they came out, I was given 1 pork belly and 2 regular mushroom tacos.... No huitlacoche in sight. The server called them mushroom tacos when they delivered them. I thought maybe there was some huitlacoche in the taco, but no. Just straight up mushrooms. They were ok, but the pork belly was amazing. Had I known their "huitlacoche" was just mushrooms, I would have ordered 3 of the pork belly instead. It seems misleading to label mushroom tacos as something they're not. It's the equivalent of ordering A5 Wagyu at a restaurant and being served something from Omaha Steaks. I'd be willing to give this place another shot to try some of their other food which looked unique and amazing, but can't help but feel like I was slighted into paying $16 for two boring mushroom tacos. read more

Food was extremely tasty, spices just right veggies perfect, service was very good, server knew the food well, drinks great, ambiance- authentic read more

Upscale Mexican that doesn't miss. Food is amazing. Everything we've tried has been phenomenal including dessert which we usually don't do but thought we'd give it a try. Glad we did because it was delicious. Give it a try and you won't be disappointed, they'll keep you coming back & thinking about their food. Only CONS - small kitchen but I think it adds to the ambiance. Just know it may not be super fast but they're still good at managing orders. read more

I have been here twice for special occasions. Once it was for my birthday. Which is a little bit tricky because it's Cinco de Mayo and this is a Mexican restaurant. I had a reservation well at advance. When we got to the restaurant, the host said that the prior party have not left the table and so they were not ready for us. 45 minutes go by and still nothing. One of my friends had to go to the host and say "come on it's for her birthday, we have been waiting for awhile...." etc etc. They finally asked the prior group to leave because they had extended their stay and were not purchasing anything else since we had first checked in to the reservation. When we were finally seated everything else went smoothly. Just very frustrating we had to wait almost an hour for a table that we already had a reservation for. The next time I went was for another birthday. This time it wasn't on Cinco de Mayo - for reference. I wanted to pay $100 in cash and have the rest on my credit card. I noticed that the bill was $20 more than I had accounted for. The waiter had not included one of my 20s. I would've over paid for my meal by $20 if I had not been paying attention. The food is VERY good, and I do recommend people checking it out, but be wary of the service. I feel like the food and the atmosphere is tainted by the lack of attention and initiation by the staff members. Because, if they had great service, I would definitely give them five stars. The two out of five rating is for service alone. read more

See all

I find this place to be SO underrated, and have always enjoyed bringing friends who have lived here forever here for a surprise. The drinks are amazing, and the food is always a hit, whether you play it safe with some tacos, or go a little bit more adventurous. The patio is absolutely lovely, covered, with a plant wall that Ames the aesthetic, but honestly the inside is amazing too and worth a seating. I have a friend who still dreams about their lamb - check it out! read more

La Dama is a cute Mexican place with a great vibe. The cocktails were good, we had the Mexican lollipop and the Manhattan. We started with the dos moles, which were just okay. For dinner had the lamb Birria and chilitos, both were really great. Make a reservation for sure! read more

La Dama - Lamb Shank Birria - Mexican Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Delish! Everything we had was fantastic and the service was good. The place is small so plan accordingly. We will make it a regular spot!

very cute small place with patio. food was good as well as drink, seated immediately no wait on a friday evening

I had dinner with a friend at La Dama for the first time recently. Overall it was a good experience with a few caveats. I love the space. It's rather small, but funky and cute. Service was adequate. The food was a little bit hit or miss. Some items were delicious and others not so much. read more

All around great experience. Came in with my cousin on a slower night during the week and sat at the bar. Taken care of by a great bartender named Anton. Good conversation and recommendations from him. The restaurant in small but well decorated with a cozy feeling. We started with the bacon wrapped dates and grilled octopus. Both great dishes. The bacon wrapped dates are stuffed with chorizo and served with a rich red pepper sauce. The grilled octopus is served on a corn tostada with grilled pineapple, habanero and a cream sauce. My cousin ordered the duck, pork belly and tuna tacos. He enjoyed all three. I ordered the braised lamb shank which was sublime. Fall apart in a nice mole sauce served with homemade corn tortillas. Highly recommended. read more

The fresh, celebratory flavors of Mexico's many cuisines have always excited me. My father grew up in a small town in the state of Chihuahua, Mexico, so my family has traveled the tastes of Mexico City, Riviera Maya, Mazatlán, & Monterrey, but we've unfortunately never gotten to Oaxaca. So it's no surprise I found the most interesting dishes on La Dama's menu to be Oaxacan! Dinner at La Dama was visually dreamy: surrounded by handpainted murals, soft lighting, and a folk art sculpture of a dragon creature poised above the doorway. The cocktail calling my name ACTUALLY had my name: The Gabriella. And it was smooth and fruity, made with mezcal, aperol, cocchi Americano, and simple syrup. If it wasn't so boozy, I would have gotten two. Caleb tried The Mexican Lollipop: Served in a quirky mug shaped like a skull, the sweet passionfruit and lime was distinctly margarita-like, made more punchy with tamarind, with an extra flavor layer of chipotle salt on the rim of the glass. In regard to appetizers: the grilled octopus was one of the best I've had. And the tetela was a perfectly crispy corn masa pocket filled with mushrooms, cheese and blackbean paste. The salmon topped with chapulin (grasshoppers) was a gorgeous assembly of textures and mildly spiced fish with sweetness from the golden beet puree. Caleb's Lamb Shank Birria was a must try item, and there was so much he took half home. The pescatarian options were full of flavor, and I'd love to order their tacos for takeout soon! The staff was so knowledgeable and friendly, as well. And they even gave us a free dessert for our anniversary, which has NEVER happened anywhere before, so I was very excited. Even more so once I took my first bite of the capirotada (Mexican bread pudding made with figs, dates, pecans, etc.). It was the perfect spiced autumnal end to the evening. PLUS! Update: They now offer takeout specials Tuesday through Wednesday. Tuesdays: 3 tacos and rice + beans for $15 $8.00 takeout margaritas! read more

See all

Our visit to La Dama was fantastic on all fronts - food, wine, and service. The back patio (covered and enclosed with a fountain) was cozy and comfortable. The tuna/shrimp starter was gorgeous and not too acidic (which ceviches unfortunately tend to be). We did the tacos (tuna and pork belly) and the whole grouper. All fantastic with just the right level of flavor and spice. Our favorite discovery of the night was the Txakolina on the wine list (white from Spain). Fantastic place for a special meal! read more

La Dama - La Dama Aguachile Rojo - Mexican Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

See all

Drinks were great and love the atmosphere. My seared Tuna taco was delicious, but I wasn't a fan of the other 2. The beef one was so Hot(spicy) that I couldn't even eat it. I like spicy food, but it was ridiculously hot to the point it made my whole stomach burn. The shredded pork had a big piece of gristle in it that turned me off from eating it too read more

See all

Wonderful restaurant just south of downtown Milwaukee. Yummy drinks, great service, and delicious food. I will return and I recommend.

I had a wonderful dinner at La Dama, dining on the lovely outdoor patio. La Dama is an upscale, creative Mexican restaurant, unlike the mom and pop Mexican restaurants that proliferate in Walker's Point and west. The restaurant is more Rick Bayless than Cancun. Everything tasted wonderful, but I was disappointed by the mixology offered. While the food was very creative, the drink selection was hampered by convention. Our server, on this Tuesday evening, was quirky in the best way, providing suggestions and personal anecdotes. She was great, but I never got her name. One odd thing about La Dama, is they serve mole as an appetizer with chips, but no mole was available with any of the entrees. That seemed weird to me. La Dama is an inventive Mexican restaurant that has become rare in Milwaukee. It copies kitchens in Chicago, LA, NYC, and CDMX. You will enjoy the food, but be prepared to spend about $75.00 per person with tip and drinks. read more

Some of the damn finest food that's ever been inside my mouth hole. A reservation was made by friends and we hobbled along, and the extra bodies were seated without issue. The wait staff was patient and hospital, we were made to feel real special! Highest recommendation from a somewhat snooty foodie. All the Tacos were were the Bomb dot com! read more

La Dama - Mexican Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

See all

The bacon wrapped fig was worth the trip in itself the tacos and drinks were a plus. The only downside was the mezcal flight, low cost mezcal and 1 Oz pours for $25. read more

See all

We really like this restaurant. The ambience is great, including the friendliness of the staff and the art on the walls. The drinks were really delicious and so was the food. The only complaint I have is that one of the tacos I ate had a very hot chili in it, which caused me to have to ask for dairy and lots of water and ice. I am a little sensitive, but that was kind of over the top even for my sensitivities. They told us that chilies are unpredictable and sometimes people get hot chili in their food. I think that it should be easier to control the heat, but I'm not a Mexican cuisine chef. Having said that, we would definitely go back. read more

This is another Milwaukee gem. As you enter, you walk up some pretty steep stairs. It is a very cozy place that is beautifully decorated. The kitchen is right in front for everyone to see. For appetizers we ordered Guacamole ($15), Ensalada Romana ($9) and from the specials menu, roasted eggplant soup ($10). Both the guacamole and the salad were excellent but this roasted eggplant soup was amazing. It was are favorite item of the night. For our entrees l ordered the rib eye special and wife got the Salmon Encrustado ($34), both were delicious. read more

La Dama - Guacamole - Mexican Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

See all

Just had an app and some drinks here. It was a take on a Chile relleno and it was spicy and delicious. The sauce it was in, was so dang good. I want to go back and have the tostada app. read more

Such a cute, yet small venue in Walker's Point. Lovely outdoor patio that was screened in to save you from the pesky skeeters. Mushroom tacos were amazing and others enjoyed their entrees as well. Others mentioned the price being high, however visiting from San Diego, the prices for food seemed fair and the drinks were a good value. Waiter was pleasant. Highly recommend! read more

Don't have enough adjectives for how delicious this place is! Service is top notch. Cocktails are just as creative as the dishes. Do not deny yourself any longer - make the reservation!! read more

A bit pricey but much better taste! Let's first talk price since it's the only critique I have. I know inflation is hitting small biz hard but I thought $24 for a stuffed poblano was a bit steep. Three tacos for $24 - same. I know, I know, each has premium ingredients and was delectable so I'll leave it at that. The food - spectacular. The chilito replenished (stuffed jalapeños) was deliciousness in every bite. It was packed with flavor and unique flavors yet maintained a aura of Mexican cuisine. I ordered three tacos and my wife the stuffed poblano. No complaints whatsoever. I got the Greek / griego, a steak and blended black bean, and another which slipped my mind. Each unique and fantastic in their own right. The stuffed poblano was my least favorite albeit the one I had the least of. Will recommend La Dama. Fantastic service, quaint environment and hope they continue to deliver a superb dining experience. read more

Spectacular spot. Just came back to my hotel from dinner and wanted to right a review immediately. Visiting from Chicago and I made a reservation in advance after reading about La Dama on Eater Chicago and checking out the Yelp reviews. I sat at the bar and loved seeing the chefs at work. Started with the house margarita (delish: extra lime-y and not too sweet), grilled oysters and chilito rellenos. Loved the fresh, smokey flavors of the oysters and the duck was out of this world in the rellenos. They are pretty spicy just FYI if you don't like spice. I had to try the tacos and went with the ahi tuna, steak and pork shoulder and loved how unique they each were. Pork was my favorite! Ambiance is awesome and I loved chatting with the owner before I left. read more

See all

The server was slightly forgetful as he may have been new. The ambiance is trendy with small tables and candlelight. They had paper menus which we liked. We did not have a reservation and they were able to see us but it was busy. We liked the food. We had lamb, duck, beef, salmon for dinner. Could be served slightly hotter but the flavors were wonderful. guac and Chips to start which were delicious . We would go again! read more

Outstanding, creative, authentic Mexican cuisine. This is on par with the best in Houston. They pack a lot in a cozy space. The oysters were luscious. The tacos were creative with duck, fish, steak and mushroom options. There was a vegetarian appetizer on a crispy taco that was amazing. It had a chili oil drizzle and roasted peanut squash and mushrooms and beans and cheese. That was outstanding. The desserts were creative with sweet corn ice cream paired with a blueberry cobbler pie. The whole meal was sensational. This has got to be the best in the Midwest. read more

There isn't a better chic relaxing unique surprising and affordable dining experience anywhere. Anywhere! Foods you absolutely can not experience anywhere else... except maybe their Guac. Combine that menu with the unusual drinks(especially the la dama) and it's a complete dining parade. read more

This place is amazing. Starts with a vibrant and well informed staff. The food is a great blend of flavor and quality. Feel free to order anything on the menu with confidence. I can't recommend the charro beans enough, they are the best my wife and I have ever had. I just hope none of my Hispanic friends find out I paid $24 for 3 tacos. All jokes aside this is the place to go for great service, food/drinks and atmosphere! read more

The food is magnificent, perfection. Service was beyond a 5. But the noise! Yikes. It will keep us from going back I fear.

The best tacos I've ever had. Great atmosphere. Cool decor. A mystery door inside that might lead to the basement or maybe to a bathroom. I will go back here. read more

Crazy water, one of the best restaurants in the country, reinvented itself into this during covid. Good imaginative Mexican cuisine but nothing extraordinary. I thought it odd that they couldn't provide any spicy salsas to accommodate my food. In that sense the food is heavily catered to the bland palate. It's a good dinner just no longer a wow read more

This past weekend was our first trip back to this restaurant since it switched over from Crazy Water. I love Mexican food and had high hopes but left a bit disappointed. The food was tasty but WAY overpriced for what it was. $24 for 3 tacos? I also love margaritas and assumed they'd knock it out of the park but was also disappointed with the hibiscus drink. All-in-all the food was decent but overpriced. Crazy Water was a better/more memorable restaurant. read more

My husband and I had a great dinner here last weekend. We started with the Chilitos Rellenos and the Dos Moles. Both were good but the Dos Moles were excellent. Then we had the Chile En Nogada and Tacos (pork belly, swordfish and tuna). The tacos were amazing. We loved the handmade tortillas. The cocktails were delicious as well. While I believe the restaurant is being very safe (we dined indoors and there were partitions between all the tables and staff always wore masks) I would have loved to see a little more space between tables. But the place was packed as can be expected from excellent food. Would highly recommend! read more

La Dama - Tacos - Mexican Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

See all

Amazing restaurant. The food was 10/10. Small menu but it's clear they choose quality over quantity. The specialty drinks were also fantastic. We tried a few and they were all delicious. The artwork and decor is phenomenal. Such a great environment and vibe here. Staff was friendly and helpful. They take Covid precautions seriously so if you're someone who is going to cause a fuss don't bother. Probably not the best place to bring kids if they are picky eaters as the menu has things like octopus and other things/ ingredients most Americans have never heard of. Great for the adventurous palate. 100% would recommend! Can't wait to go again! read more

Big disappointment. We arrived shortly before 8PM and were never seated. The place closes at 9PM and there were 3 visible tables of varying sizes open when we arrived. We were eventually told they were booked after the bartender attempted to read the seating schedule put together by a waitress who never bother to come over. He admitted, he didn't quite understand the seating and we were wished away with a "better luck next time". While waiting for 10 minutes to be told this, we were never met by a waitress and 1 waitress with color hair bumped into my friend without acknowledging it or apologizing. Based on this service and lack of Mexican folks visible in a Mexican restaurant that is staffed by all white ppl, I would not recommend. You are better off venturing to Cielito Lindo just 1 block away for authentic Mexican food prepared and served by those that understand the cuisine precisely. read more

La Dama has good food and good service but is a bit expensive for what you get. The service was good, very friendly and attentive, no issues there. We were a party of 4 and each of us got 3 tacos and shared a couple of sides. The tacos were good and unique. I had the tuna, pork belly and pork shoulder tacos. The tacos were 3 for $24, so $8 a taco. The tacos were made well and tasted good but I don't think they were worth $8 each. The side we had was Brussel sprouts for $10, again well prepared and tasted good, just not sure its worth $10. All in all, La Dama was good but for me not worth the price. read more

This place was good. It's very cozy inside. Only complaint we had was the wait time. Our reservation was for 8:45 and we did not get seated for close to an hour. If we were in a hurry we would have left. The beans were great, lamb shank was great, tacos were solid and once we were seated the service was good. It was confusing because the food came out in 5 minutes but it took an hour to be seated. Kind of bizarre but it was a good time and we got drinks at the bar before we were seated. read more

Such a pretentious place. Server took over 20 minutes to come back to take our order. $20 for 3 tacos, just tacos. We left before ordering. Huge disappointment. read more

Excellent food and terrific service. Elevated Mexican cuisine in a lively 5th ward mainstay with a imaginative wine list. The former Crazy Water chef continues to hit all the right notes that does the former owner proud. Saw the building is for sale and hoping that this great little restaurant can stay in the space! read more

Food was too sweet. Tasted like candy pretty much. I won't be coming back, there's better places to get truly authentic Mexican food.