This gem is just off Oakland Ave tucked away in a neighborhood. Wish we had found it sooner. Great food, great service, and jus the perfect vibe for a Sunday evening (but any day of the week really. I forgot to take photos but the menu is unique and familiar at the same time. I started with the strawberry salad followed by the fried chicken. They have something on the menu for all food preferences and their cocktail list is extensive. We can't wait to go back and try something else. read more

Went here recently for a date night after reading all the fantastic reviews! We started with the Brussel sprouts app and it was good but not my favorite. It was waaay to oily. I had the scallops, which were outstanding, but it came with a sour kraut side and potatoes that I wasn't fond of. My husband had the salmon that he enjoyed but was nothing outstanding. We both thought the drinks were way overpriced, but the drink options were impressive! Overall it was good, but not as good as I expected. I was actually a little disappointed since we rarely get opportunities for date nights. I don't think I will be back. read more

After reading the yelp reviews we decided to go here for brunch. Honestly in my opinion this is the worst breakfast I ever had for a long time. The service suck or maybe he was just new on the job. Pancake was super dry. It was pretty hard to swallow. Bacon was thick but not crispy. I prefer my bacon more crispy. The presentation of food was sorely lacking. It look like something I can make at home. I would not recommend this place if you're looking for breakfast. Simple cafe might be a better option. Even the Corner Bakery in Shorewood was better than this place. read more

See all

Had our first dining experience last night and it was excellent. The drinks, the food and the service were all spot on. If you go you have to try the Brussels sprout appetizer, like nothing we have had. All the entrees of scallops, fish (sturgeon) and pork chops were done to perfection. Can't say enough good things about this place. We will be back! read more

GREAT place! We recently ate at The Original on a lovely, warm Milwaukee evening. We started with cocktails (lots of choices, many fun twists on classics, all amazing) and the charcuterie board. Each bite was a little piece of heaven! Entrees for the four of us were the roast duck, scallops, flatiron steak and the market catch, sturgeon. Hard to say which was best-they were all amazing! Our server was terrific - friendly, professional and knowledgeable. We sat on the outside deck, and at dusk, the fireflies came out! It was quite magical. We will definitely be back! read more

Very nice place, very relaxed and comfortable. The Original Old Fashion was very good. The wedge salad was perfect, the octopus was good. For dinner we had the duck and the Sturgeon. Both were very good. Overall a very nice dinner. read more

My first time here. Got the veggie pasta and salmon. Both were amazing! Salmon was cooked perfect. The drinks were also on point! I'll definitely be back! read more

Got the biggest sales pitch of your life of certain things on the menu and so I selected the pasta dish that only included pasta, mushrooms and broccoli (no protein of any kind) for $25. They were out of everything.... Chicken, shrimp vodka etc.... The drinks were very expensive and the quality of the food was poor. Owners just looking for a buck read more

We used to frequent Red Dot at this location and when we saw it was something new, we wanted to give it a try. We stopped there on a Sunday for brunch and saw that some changes had been made tonthe facade, but nothing too crazy. When we got inside, it was pretty much the same. It wasn't too busy, but that's ok by me. There was a huge table of folks in the middle and they seemed to be enjoying themselves. Their menu had a lot of offerings and they all seemed like they'd be delicious. There isn't a poutine, which made me sad but they do have an interesting rotating menu. I had my staple steak and eggs. The hanger steak was a little charred on the outside, which made for some less than happy bites at times, but it was tolerable. We'd go back again and try some other things for sure. read more

We are first time patrons coming in during the Mother"s Day Rush. Had a great spot with my companion at the bar in clear sight of other diners enjoying their entrees. Chatted up the owner, Eric, who was extremely eager, friendly, and knowledgeable. The menu was fixed, yet reasonable, it being a 'holiday'. Although each entree option described in the menu was exceedingly enticing, l requested a few modifications, as I am one fussy diner, and they were honored. My selection, the Crab Cake Benedict was scrumptious. A savory cake sitting on a crisp English muffin with a perfectly poached egg ladled with an excellent hollandaise, was a great choice. The side - cheesy potatoes - was a tasty one. Dessert was wonderful as well. The strawberry panna cotta was nearly ethereal. Light, subtly flavored, and beautiful to behold, this Italian treat made a great finish to a great brunch experience. We will definitely visit. again. read more

Traveled from Seattle and dropping in here because of the yelp ratings. Cocktails are amazing, food is delicious, people are so friendly! A really great random find! read more

My son and I had a pre-Christmas dinner at The Original since we weren't going to be together on the holiday, and I can't recommend it enough. Great vintage/retro/comfortable feel, super nice staff, great service, and wonderful fare that's familiar enough to keep you comfortable, but with a bit of a twist to keep it special. I'll definitely be back next time I'm in Milwaukee for a special occasion. read more

Love this neighborhood gem!! We just discovered it a few months ago and have been back 4 times! The outdoor patio is great but looking forward to sitting inside in the coming winter months-the vintage bar is amazing! Highlights for us include the extensive drink menu (try the Rum Old Fashioned) and the desserts (just had a fabulous chocolate pot de creme, but all the desserts we've tried have been outstanding). The food is very creative and service is friendly-we especially enjoyed the personal attention we received from one of the owners, Eric. read more

What a great place. The service was fantastic and the food was outstanding. We have been trying to branch out from our usual places this year and have been very disappointed at most of the new places we have tried. The Original renewed our optimism. From the unrushed service, to the apps, salad, entree and deserts everything was great. They have a limited menu but what they do have is done perfectly. I have watched enough tv to know that if the menu is large nothing is good. This has enough selection for everyone. Will definitely be back. read more

Just had an excellent breakfast this morning with my family at The Original.I ordered the Johnny cakes which were the best I've ever had anywhere.They were so good they didn't even need syrup. Included with the meal was a homemade sausage patty.It was clearly made in house and was delicious . My wife had steaks and eggs which she loved.They actually use prime graded beef.Very unusual for a breakfast. Very tender and flavorful. My daughter really enjoyed her biscuits and gravy as well. I met the owner and clearly he is committed to high quality food. Service was fine. I'm very familiar with restaurant breakfasts in Milwaukee and the Original is currently the best. read more

Four of us had dinner at The Original last night. When we first entered, we encountered a nicely preserved bar, with dining tables, however, we wanted to dine outside. They have a large outdoor dining room that is enclosed on three side and has a roof covering the entire space. It's nicely designed, although it is open to the outdoors, so the mosquitoes can get pesky (despite the dramatic citronella torches). Our server was gregarious, helpful, attentive and knowledgeable. The food was tasty and nicely presented. I had the fried chicken (the server asked if I wanted standard or spicy; I opted for spicy), which had a wonderful, crispy skin. Everyone was pleased with their choices. Cuisine: 4 stars Service: 5 stars Ambiance: 4 stars read more

This is a small, delicious menu. Check it out. Inside has the most wonderful bar and decor. Outside seating is in a pretty court yard. We sat inside. Great mixed ages coming in crafted twist on classic cocktails. You will love this place. Food was delicious. Excellent place for a quaint date night. Limited street parking... read more

I am not really much of a yelper, but our experience tonight at The Original made me feel compelled to come write this review. Frankly, I am quite upset this place has been around for 2 years and I haven't been here before. The food was quite excellent, portion size perfect, and the food was original/creative but Not so far outside of the box it was unapproachable. My group ordered maybe 10-12 different cocktails, all so good we had to pass them around to share. A few people in my group ask for some changes to things to make vegetarian a non vegetarian meal, and it was no problem. We also shared one of each dessert and again, different, unique and tasty. Adding this to my short list of recommendations and go to dining locations in Milwaukee. read more

So surprising to find such a exceptional restaurant. The menu was full of unique meals that makes you want to try them all. I never would have guessed that a fine restaurant like this would be located in the heart of a small neighborhood. Thanks for the fantastic service! I will make it a point to come to your restaurant everytime I come to Milwaukee! Enjoy! read more

Their craft cocktails and food are great. Service has also been on point each time I've gone. The place itself is not fancy at all, very low key but not super hipsterish. Almost has a diner vibe to it. But don't let its looks deceive you, it's food FAR exceeds any diner. read more

Went here on a Monday night and had a great experience! We started with a couple of drinks at the bar which is bartended by the owner on Mondays. The craft cocktails are unique, delicious, and strong! We also shared the mussels appetizer which was excellent. We moved to a booth for dinner and enjoyed the chicken and vegetarian options on the menu that night. The ambiance, service, and food were all fantastic. It's not cheap but it's worth every penny! read more

Great atmosphere, food and drinks! I went to The Original for brunch and enjoyed everything I had. I had one of the signature cereal drinks and it was quite good (the one with TRIX). I had a Bloody Mary, as well, and it was great, too. For food, I had the a meatloaf omelette that had bacon in it, as well. It was delicious! I would highly recommend checking this place out for brunch. Look forward to trying the normal dinner menu at a later date. Cheers! read more

Had both the eggs Benedict and the fried chicken and French toast - both great options depending on if you want something sweet or savory.

My husband and I love going to The Original. Not only are the owners wonderful but so is what you will be served. It is a must try and great addition to Milwaukee. read more

Highly recommend this restaurant! Atmosphere was warm and relaxing. Great selection of specialty cocktails (recommend Abaddon's Gate and Seduction) and my husband had the traditional Old Fashioned and a Pabst. Duck was amazing as was the pork chop. It was great to meet the owners - both truly passionate about Theron craft cocktails and menu. We will definitely be back! read more

I've been there at least a half a dozen times the past month+ and it is amazing! Each time I've gone in I've tried something different off the menu and it was delicious. And if you like a great cocktail/ Craig is your guy! Go check it out/ you will not be disappointed! read more

Very cool 1940's era bar/restaurant. We went for Sunday brunch and couldn't have been happier. The folks working were super welcoming and helpful. Brunch cocktail menu had some Interesting options; my Bloody Mary would be in my top 5 of all time. Would have like more pickle (yum!) and maybe a Brussels sprout, but I'm nitpicking. Menu covers all the bases without being overwhelming. My group loved the breakfast burger; polenta cake/roasted veggies and a traditional plate. Nice,casual vibe--we'll be back, and you should go, too! read more

I had the mushroom ragout, and it was excellent. I wish I had a larger appetite, so I could have had one of the fish dishes!

We tried The Original and just loved it. It has a casual and warm decor, with a beautiful bar. The food and service are both outstanding. There are a wide choice of craft cocktails and interesting beers. For our appetizer we shared a special cheese platter, Which lived up to its description and our expectations. For dinner, three of us had the swordfish special which was expertly prepared, and one person had the scallops which she said were delicious. We enjoyed every bite and although the deserts looked delicious we just did not have any room. The Original Has such a great ambience, we can't wait to go back. read more

So glad I checked Yelp before going out to dinner tonight. Fabulous meal with great service and environment on the patio. read more

The Original - Seafood special - salmon and clams with rice and green beans. Great flavors. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

I was looking for a new place to eat and came across this and it reminded me of how bad our experience was there. I remember it well even though it was over a year ago. We were not greeted quickly, and when we did get seated it took awhile to get a server. All the servers and staff we saw were white men - hmmm? We asked our server for recommendations and instead of asking our dining preferences or discussing dishes he said everything is great. And that was not true. I ended up getting the only vegetarian dish on the menu "chili'. I could not tell the difference between what I got and a canned slop. There was a little bit of sour cream and shredded cheese on top and that made one bite flavorful, but the rest was mono-flavored and just not a dish for eating out and paying foody prices. When the waiter came to check on us and saw I had finished eating with 90% left, he said he could have asked the cook to prepare me something vegetarian. Well, that suggestion should have been made when I asked "is chili really the only vegetarian dish you have?" My friend ordered duck and it was overcooked but OK. Not a lot of flavor in the duck or the sides. Just overall bland, poor service - no need to go back here. read more

Always top notch drinks. Ever expanding selection with increasing quality. Now the food is making a name for itself as well. Hidden gem ...word of mouth only it seems read more

The Original had only been open for it's third night of service but they did not disappoint in the least! We started with the Chicken Liver Mousse and was delicious, smooth and flavorful. It comes with toasted baguettes, grain mustard, pickled onions and a berry smear. Second course was an arugula salad, but not just any old arugula salad. Flaky salmon, radishes and more along with a creamy corn and hint of spiciness that made you want to have more than the one serving! The main dishes we had were Pork Tenderloin that was made to perfection and Scallops with buttery grits underneath. The Scallops were also made perfectly! Dessert consisted of a Chocolate Cheesecake with an espresso graham cracker crust and raspberry drizzle on top. We will definitely be back for more and we know will not be disappointed! If you want a great meal with great service, you definitely need to try this new restaurant out for sure! read more

See all

My current favorite restaurant in Milwaukee! The scallops are amazing and the cocktail options are incredible!

Four of us went for brunch and everything we ate was amazing and unique. I'd also highly recommend getting the Bloody Mary!

Ok. Big, big asterisks on this review as I broke my cardinal rule and went to a new restaurant before the dust could settle. My friends chose this spot after a long day of Doors Open Milwaukee, but the experience has made me adamant about sticking to my rule. We visited The Original on its first weekend since opening. I'll start with the strengths: 1) the menu is seasonal, includes drink pairings (both beer and cocktails), and has options for carnivores and vegetarians. 2) the market fish was skate wing, which is unusual for Wisconsin, but was not overpriced. 3) I ordered the vegetarian entree (wild rice and mushrooms) and it was a filling and flavorful meal. 4) the ambiance is cozy, does full justice to the historic building (love the original Art Deco bar), and would make a great date spot. Not too many or too few tables for the space. 5) my friends had dessert, and pronounced it excellent. Now, the areas for growth: 1) for what is on offer, the prices are 2-4 dollars too high across the board. A plate of wild rice and portabella mushrooms, with a handful of dried cherries, should not cost almost 20 dollars. 2) there is no indication on the menu that anything is gluten free. The server made no mention, except for an off handed comment that the fried cheese is gluten free (which, unless it's in a dedicated fryer, which seems unlikely, it's NOT, and it's dangerous to say so) 3) the service was...excessive. The server explained each menu option in great detail, came back every three minutes to chat (we were the only table, but still), and was overall way too involved in the meal. 4) the owners were equally overzealous. We met both owners and the head chef over the course of the meal. And then, all of the staff proceeded to stand behind the bar and watch us. Guys! At least pretend to be busy! No one wants to be closely observed while eating dinner. Again, there's a ton of potential here, and these folks clearly want to make it work. But need to consider the dining experience. Turn on some music, be attentive without being overbearing, and do some advertising! Great concept, execution needs work. read more

Been here twice and have had some of the best meals, desserts, and cocktails I've ever had. I highly recommend the New York Sour, anything duck that they're currently serving, and the fried cheese dessert. read more

Fantastic! This new Milwaukee restaurant won't be a best kept secret for long. The wait staff was friendly and attentive. We thoroughly enjoyed everything we ordered. The only thing I would like to see is for them to concentrate on some signature craft cocktails because the food isn't necessarily the only thing to go back for! read more

Another gem added to a neighborhood with a couple.... Went in for one of their pop up nights, this one was wings and was once again blown away (this was my third or forth visit). The attention to detail to the interior alludes to the care taken in all aspects of this restaurant. From drink list to bar tools to music to flatware it's clear thought was put forth to every detail. The food is the crowning item, innovative yet intuitive and clearly made with the greatest of care. Lindsay our server was attentive without being overbearing and had a great combination of personable and polish. I have only been there for dinner but have heard great things about the brunch and will be in soon for that to be sure. read more

Came for brunch and the interior is much better than when it was Red Dot. House Doughnuts are cake doughnuts and not a yeast risen dough. They were over fried, dry and crumbly. The cider sauce was a nice sweet and tart. Shrimp n' Grits were ok, but the shrimp were small and very overcooked. It could have used some sauce with the shrimp as well. Cajun Cured Salmon Benedict was decent and the dish had a good amount of house cured salmon. But I didn't get any Cajun flavor at all. Steak and Eggs were the good and the beef was nice and beefy. It was also cooked to the proper temp. This was by far the best item we had. Overall it was ok. Nothing to write home about though. It also took 30 minutes from the time of ordering and when we got the final entree. read more