Shakers was great, I stopped by for a cigar and really enjoyed my visit. The building itself has such a fascinating, albeit largely morbid history - from its time as a brothel, an Al Capone connection, and of course a modern tie-in to serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer (the owner allegedly saved the stool Dahmer used to sit on), this place does NOT have a bright past. Fast forward to today, and the dreadful history didn't bring down my experience. They have an okay cigar collection near the host stand, and a great space to smoke/relax. There's a range of seating, from an outdoor patio, to tables near the front windows, to a bar, to more dimly lit seating toward the back...and a rooftop to boot. Lots of options! Their drink menu seemed extensive, lots of spirits and beer/wine available. Pricey, but I guess that's part of being a cigar bar, especially one that's also storied institution. Service was excellent, great staff that were friendly and very helpful. If you like cigars and don't mind a smaller selection, this place is an excellent option for a low key place to smoke and unwind. read more

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Landed here for the ghost tour and stayed for dinner. Wonderful all around. The service and food were amazing. Fun atmosphere and overall great experience. If you enjoy a good cigar, great spot for you. Highly recommend if you're in Milwaukee. read more

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Very unique place! Once a brothel, a speakeasy, and under the ownership of the Capone brothers, there is an immense amount of history and character to be found here. For obvious reasons, it's a Milwaukee staple. Yes, be prepared to smell like smoke when you leave here, because it is true to the name: a cigar bar. They're sold and smoked inside, and it's clear they have a following for just that. But there's more to this place, for the non-smokers like myself. A full bar of cocktails, brews, and wines. A large menu, which seemed to me like it had a lot of New Orleans style options, plus exotic seafood and game dishes. There are multiple stories of the building, each funky and dressed up in their own way. You'll find live music, ghost tours (it's haunted), decor from decades past, and even a rooftop looking over the city. I've yet to eat here but on a recent visit came for the infamous tour. Our guide was so great and led us from detailing the notable exterior parts of the building, through the basement, and each floor up from there. You'll have to visit yourself to uncover all of the stories and haunted history. Our group also grabbed drinks from the bar (which you can bring with you on tour). I had the gin martini - my favorite cocktail of all time - but asked the bartender to put it over ice, make it dirty, and add a twist. She returned with it made to perfection. Others has old fashioneds and wine, and it all went down a treat. It's probably not for everyone, but if you're looking for an ~experience~ then Shaker's is certainly worth a visit. read more

Shakers Cigar Bar - Cigar Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

I really enjoyed the roof top bar here, and the ambiance/history is really cool. They also have a bad ass logo. My only gripe is this place is insanely expensive. It is $20 for a buffalo trace old fashioned or $35 for a double buffalo old fashioned. A bottle of buffalo trace is only $25. It's basically highway robbery. If I were you, pregame before, order a beer and have that with a cigar on the roof. ALSO - the cigar variety here is mid. Stop by Uhle then go smoke here read more

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Shakers is exactly what I need when I need it. I LOVE visiting in the spooky season and taking one of their many ghost tours. Their staff is great at story telling. They also have cocktail waitresses which is rare to come across in Milwaukee! Beware it is smoky inside, as you know, it is a cigar bar. It is the perfect place to get a fancy cocktail and get spooked by a tour. I love their rooftop bar in the warmer weather, and they often have tarot card readers for some extra fun! read more

Shakers Cigar Bar - Getting in the spooky spirit! - Cigar Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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This is a difficult review to write. Or complicated. I attended a Yelp event held at Shaker's Cigar Bar and had an excellent time. The bar itself is quite the spot to check out if you are visits or a local who hasn't been yet. Much larger than I imagined. Lots of rooftop space with a nice view of Milwaukee. So much to investigate around the main floor of the bar, a good selection of cigars, nicely made cocktails, and an impressive amount of character and charm. However, I was, frankly, disturbed and astonished to see that Shaker's sells, among other standard bar merchandise, a shirt featuring the mug shot of Jeffrey Dahmer. I recognize that Dahmer is Milwaukee's (likely) most infamous serial killer. But this glorification of a murderer who preyed upon young, marginalized, BIPOC, LGBTQAI+ men shows a significant lack of empathy for the victims and their families, as well as for the queer community of Milwaukee. This type of "murderabilia" is disrespectful, retraumatizing, and harmful. Sigh. It's too much for me. read more

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We had an amazing evening last night at Shakers. From the moment you walk in the door, you can feel the history. It was once owned by the Capone family, and it said to be haunted. Original floors, ceiling, and so many amazing details. If you love history, you would love this place. Now, mind you it is a cigar bar. So, there is a distinct smell of cigars. That can be remedied by going to their amazing rooftop bars. Three terraces to choose from amazing food, amazing views, amazing cocktails. They also have burying ghost tours that you can take. Amazing vibe, amazing people. So, especially if you're into cigars, this is your place! read more

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What a historic find! This bar was once owned by the Capone brothers during Prohibition operating as a speakeasy and brothel. Currently, the bar operates as a full service cigar shop, has live music and even ghost tours. There does appear to be a full food menu as well, however my group did not have any. Speaking of ghost tours, my group did the "hangman" sponsored ghost tour and learned all about Jeffrey Dahmer and his ties to the MKE area. I cannot stress this tour/ offering enough. Our tour guide Miranda was fantastic and well spoken. She was helpful and knowledgeable in all areas. With this tour, there are small discounted items on merchandise and drinks. Minus the smell of cigars, this is certainly worth the visit at most to see and if time permits, I would take advantage of the full experience and schedule a ghost tour because it ties the entire building and theme together. Note: the women's bathroom was adorably cute. read more

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Shakers Cigar Bar is a must stop spot whenever I visit Milwaukee. They have some of the best drinks, a cool atmosphere, and really good light bites. I love the history of this place and you can even take a tour. There are so many different areas to hang out and my favorite is the rooftop, which has multiple levels. You can easily spend a good amount of time here. I visit at least once a year and the owner recognizes us, which is awesome. We have had some of our best times in this spot. read more

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I recently took part in Shaker's Ghost tour with a small group. Shakers is one of those iconic Milwaukee places that you just have to visit and soak in at least once. I knew it's a cigar bar so I wasn't excited to be engulfed by smoke but hey, that's part of the experience. Be prepared to change out of clothes or get some fresh air if you're super sensitive to smoke. All was well with the tour itself, we were given an outdoor portion and an indoor portion of the tour. It was one of the longer, more personal tours I've been on. Our tour guide was great. We were able to order drinks during a break from the tour. They were tasty. I do wish they offered more food or snack options. It does get pretty crowded in the evenings and I am a non-smoker, so I will probably stick to the rooftop to get some fresh air and enjoy some drinks. read more

Shakers Cigar Bar - Cigar Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Great alcohol selection great cigar selection great staff prohibition history ghost tours great place to experience with friends great vibes read more

Service was great. Food was above average. Environment was amazing. Felt ghost tour was knowledgeable but a bit pricey. Would go back again. Wouldn't elect to do ghost tour again though read more

Shakers Cigar Bar - Ghost tour started outside - Cigar Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Went to this place twice when I was hosting friends from out of town who wanted to go. The space itself is really cool and holds an immense amount of history. Both times staff all look miserable and we're not very friendly. The drinks were insanely overpriced, I was charged for doubles when I ordered a single mid tier vodka. We were pressured by the staff to taking a tour, they kept coming over and interrupting us. I also think it's in really poor taste that they are selling Dahmer merchandise, I understand they have a tour and I love true crime but I found it gross. It was cool to see a place with such rich history but overall it wasn't a great experience and I would be hard pressed to go back or suggest this place. read more

Came here looking for ghosts, left having had one of the most delicious carrot cakes and pretty darn good espresso martinis. The vibes of the bar are fun and it was fairly crowded for a Wednesday night. It took quite a bit to get served after ordering (our cake came after we finished our first drink) so just come on nights where you may not be in a rush but I will for sure be back! read more

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Beautiful old historic bar that's haunted by old timey prostitutes Yes, back in the day, this building was a whorehouse. Today, it's an excellent location with a multi-level open air rooftop bar, good drinks, and delicious food. Good service and pretty views. They also have a wide selection of cigars on the first floor. The clientele can get a little rowdy and it's not cheap, but you'll love it. Just...like...the...prostitutes? read more

This is a cool place. Interesting back story, decent cigar selection. Vibe was chill, pizza was awesome (I had the Redondo) and the service was top notch. Little pricey, but for me- worth it for the experience and service. I came for the cigars but will return for that pizza, the service and the experience. read more

Shakers Cigar Bar - Cigar Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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This bar is SO cool! If you are from out of town and only have time to make one stop, this is the stop to make! This account has so much history, not all good, but all very interesting! They offered ghost tours, and when we arrive, there was a lady giving tarot card readings. The actual cigar bar had a vast variety of options, and cocktails were amazing! read more

I could literally spend all night here! There are THREE rooftops and beautiful views of Milwaukee and the Hoan bridge. The vibe could go either way; chill or party. My sister and I had so much fun here, the servers were attentive and prompt. The drinks and food were delicious! I'm very interested in the ghost tours as well! This is the new spot to be this summer, laid back but such a vibe and fun! read more

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Britney made us delicious drinks and made the whole experience at Shaker's fantastic. Her amazing bartending combined with the lounge's intimate ambiance made for a great night. Britney did a really fabulous job at creating a warm atmosphere for everyone. Great filthy martini! 5 stars!!! Thank you for the wonderful service Britney!! read more

Shakers Cigar Bar - Dirty martini and cigar - Cigar Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

It was my first time here over the weekend. It's very spacious, They have a lot of cool merch & artwork everywhere! The service was really good. And my drinks were delicious. I will definitely be back to buy some T-shirts! read more

This place is just amazing!! They have an awesome menu, McKenna our server had a lot of stories to tell us about the bar. And its history just fits the ambiance of its history!! Great cigar selection with both indoor and outdoor seating, you have to try this place read more

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Was charged $40 for a martini! How the hell is that even possible. Especially when the best vodka they have is some Russian crap that's 26 bottle retail. American. Spend your money in time elsewhere. This place is a joke. read more

Shakers Cigar Bar - Their crappy vodka that they charge $40 a martini for. - Cigar Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

The lore of this bar is very cool - it was previously a brothel, then owned by the Capone brothers and was a speakeasy during prohibition. Drinks are a bit overpriced for the area - but that's what you get when a place really leans into tourism - but my French 75 was good! I will say, I was unsettled that they chose to keep a known serial killer's barstool and prominently display it. I think it's one thing to lean into the sordid history and haunted nature of the place - without revering a serial killer. read more

I am in love with this bar. The ambiance is exactly what I crave: it's as if F Scott Fitzgerald, Zelda, Hemingway and all the expats of 1920s Paris have resided here, their ghostly selves languishing across armchairs in flapper dresses rolled up to here, suits impeccably tailored to reveal the perfect ratio of wrist to linen, and hair oiled and scented to embody molecules of scent from 100 years ago. Yes their ghosts languish, elegant figures against a drop dead backdrop drop of front and back bar unique to any establishment. This is a cigar bar, and Ernest and Scott would be at home puffing on the fragrant lobes of tobacco that feel illegal anywhere else. Luxurious accessories abound, Tiffany repro lamps and 1880s nudes tastefully splayed across the walls. A classy joint. Liquor choices are awesome. I'm enjoying a French 75, and the binder of specialized inventory makes one feel like an industry scion entertaining His cronies. The vibe at midnight is lively and unlike Milwaukee. Wait - is this New Orleans? They offer ghost tours. This is a one of a kind classy bar where people smoke and the tab is high. It's worth it. Go if you need some class. read more

Among the most unusual and inspiring places in the city. Three rooftop levels, all worth the view. Exquisite main room and back bar. Best jerk tacos I've had in years, delicious and fat portions. Service was outstanding in every part I visited. Cannot comment on ghosts; they were preoccupied elsewhere. No idea what it costs, I was on a spree. No TVs. Yes, no TV anywhere. That is bold and to be both commended and imitated. Also, they have a nice cigar selection and allow cigar smoking throughout premises (also highly commended). A true original, nothing like it in Milwaukee, or America, for that matter. As for originals, the owner, Bob, is a madman visionary and should be put in charge of all city hospitality functions. Make it all national hospitality. Erotic blend of art nouveau and Victorian architecture, neon, a dash of kitsch, a perfect mix of customers high and low, fine cigars, zero glowing screens with endless sport ball loops, great service, attractive women, excellent food and booze, ghosts, a chef owner, in an old Al Capone bordello. My new spot to bring all my corporate clients. This is a small glimpse of the America that I once fell in love with, the one that knew how to have fun. read more

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If you like cigars then this is the place for you. The cigars are good. They have a huge variety. They can be pricey but for what you pay it's not bad. The food was really great! I got the braised rib and potatoes. The service was amazing, the staff were very knowledgeable about the menu drinks and the cigars. They also offer ghost tours for those who like the supernatural. And there patio out front is nice on a hot summer day. read more

There is a whole mystique and ambiance thing going on here that I absolutely love. They also happen to stock Macallan 25. I LOVE a good scotch. I drink rarely so when I do, I want to enjoy it. Unfortunately I can no longer patronize this place in good conscience and here's why: A few weeks ago (summer of 2025) I was there with my partner. We'd just sat down when we hear a thud as an elderly disabled individual lost his balance and hit the floor. We both go over to render aid. I help him get to his feet with a couple of other people. He's was wasted from all available data. He sat at the bar for a bit and I could swear he was drinking more. Maybe I'm wrong. Maybe he's got water or tea who TF knows but 2 minutes later he hits the floor again. My partner and I go out to "smoke" (IKR) and get away from the uneasy atmosphere and when we return he's back upright at the bar again. I'm super anxious so everyone he moves I jump up to see if he needs stabilizing. Eventually one of the guys that works there help him to the door in the back and the whole time I'm thinking "that guy is too small to not have this end in disaster. I get up to help them thinking that maybe he's waiting for the ambulance because when we had come back in it looked like one of the staff was one the phone with emergency services. Welp, the guy working there wasn't helping him to get fresh air he was helping him to his car and that drunk fu**er got into his car and drove off. Now I feel like crap for helping the employee because at one point he would have easily been on the ground under the older guy if I hadn't kept them from toppling over together. If I'd known they were going to his car I would have let them fall and break something. After the manager (?) or whomever it was found out that he drove off they closed for the night asking us to finish our drinks and leave...but politely. Eff that place read more

Absolute gem ! They simply don't make places like this these days. Amazing atmosphere.

Really nice full bar, and the staff is very friendly and attentive. Nice triple decks to enjoy your evening. Where historic location. Besides the live bands, they also give ghost tours and a Dahmer tour. See the staff for information. read more

I did the 10 p.m. ghost tour at Shakers and was impressed. First of all, I didn't know what to expect. From exploring the basement to two floors above the main level, the experience was undeniably spooky. Our ghost tour guide added his own unique flair to the tour, which was entertaining. Additionally, I enjoyed the lemon drop martini that I ordered. The staff was very knowledgeable of the menu and recommended drinks as well. The ambiance of the venue, with its vintage lamps, captivating artwork, and warm lighting, was fantastic. I would definitely come back to Shakers for drinks. It was such a fun opportunity to dress up!! read more

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Very interesting history here! A must see in Milwaukee. Plan a non busy time, like when they open at 3pm. Cocktails are pricy but you pay for the history and experience. Make sure you read up on this place before you visit. We are talking about murder, gangsters, ghosts, Jeffrey Dahmer, brothels, speakeasy, and more. Tours available. Fascinating place with a cool and friendly owner and employees! Go, you need to see and experience this place! #Molly #Elisabeth read more

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Before shakers was a cigar bar it was a jazz bar in the 80's with a fantastic deli and fresh shucked oysters. Revisiting this establishment had memories, but were completely ruined by changes . No matter how good the food is, all you taste is cigar smoke. Unfortunately the bartender that waited on me had no clue how to make the cocktails I asked for. She actually said of course I know how to make that. Nothing like spending 15 bucks on a drink you didn't order twice. Shame on me. read more

Aleksi was a great ghost tour guide - with tons of stories, historical info and humor. Would highly recommend the tour - and stopping for a drink/food before or after. The service was great, too. read more

super fun place, very interesting history, and super nice workers i went here for a tour about the history and ghosts and had a lot of fun me and my dad chatted with a few other customers and one of the bartenders, everyone was super nice the tour was absolutely awesome, i loved it, it was so cool hearing the stories and seeing all the historical things they have there they had some very fun themed drinks related to paranormal stuff too lol read more

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Critic Rating: 4.50 Scores: - Food: 4.0 * 30% = 1.20 - Service: 5.0 * 20% = 1.00 - Value for Money: 4.0 * 20% = 0.80 - Ambiance: 5.0 * 15% = 0.75 - Uniqueness: 5.0 * 15% = 0.75 ___________________________________________ Comments: More than a bar; it's an experience. While lingering smoke may not suit everyone, Shakers delivers as a fun A-bar or date night option. ___________________________________________ Here's a formula that expresses the quality of a restaurant on a 1-5 scale, considering key factors. Each factor is rated from 1-5, and then weighted according to its importance. Formula: Q = wf*F + ws*S + wa*A + wv*V + wu*U Where: - Q = Overall Restaurant Quality - F = Food Quality: The taste, freshness, presentation of dish. - S = Service: How attentive, friendly, & informed the staff is. - A = Ambiance: Atmosphere, cleanliness, decor, and feel. - V = Value for Money: Balance of price, quantity, & quality. - U = Uniqueness: Novelty of concept, menu, & experience. Weights (w): - wf = Weight of Food Quality (30%) - ws = Weight of Service (20%) - wv = Weight of Value for Money (20%) - wa = Weight of Ambiance (15%) - wu = Weight of Uniqueness (15%) read more

Great place and given it was Halloween but holy smokes we got boned. Alexi/bar missed a drink and I waited 30 min and had to go to the bar and get it myself. Ordered again (4 drinks) on the middle rooftop which sucks for a server, but he never even came back. They were swamped so I feel for them but wow it was bad. Outrageous prices for a Milwaukee bar and pretty sure we got charged for random stuff. 1 espresso martini was $20... insane in MKE. Extra 20% tip added for a group of 6 and we tipped the normal 20% on top of that, as good humans do so ooof. read more

Went on Halloween. Elizabeth was a great tour guide. Concise, entertaining, but cold. read more

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Cut me off at three absynthe citing some "state law". I understand Pernod is expensive but be clear with your reasons. Strange behavior from hostesses. Supremely expensive cocktails. Parking is questionable. However the cigar vendor on the first floor was knowledgeable, friendly, and professional. Tip this man Most likely wont go again unless it becomes a bit more welcoming. read more

Such an awesome place to visit. It truly feels like you're taking a step back into the 80's. Tons of history, plenty of seating including rooftop. Plenty of good cigars to chose from, and the bartender made an awesome old fashioned to go with it. Sweet staff, and an intriguing place that may be haunted. Who knows! read more

Shakers Cigar Bar - Cigar Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Riley made the best espresso martini for me while I was out celebrating my birthday. I think it's a cute and entertaining date spot or worthwhile bar. read more