22 Best Cocktail Bars in Milwaukee

“Classic lounge energy with surprisingly solid bites. I grabbed a small plate alongside a drink and it hit the spot—simple, savory, and well-timed. Dim lights, old-school vibes, and a pace that encourages lingering. Feels timeless in a good way.“

“Great quality tequila for all the fantasic house cocktails!!“

“The bartender named after the news channel you wish your grand parents would turn off forever, makes the entire experience worth visiting alone. Great drinks and a fun atmosphere. Guaranteed to make friends every time you visit. Can’t recommend enough.“

“Best Old fashioned in the state of Wisconsin“

“Royal Street MKE formally Daq Shack MKE underwent a beautiful transformation inside but the heart, quality of food and service are the same...wonderful! It's always like visiting family here, the main bartender always remembers us even though we only come a couple times a year when in the area. Food is always fresh, hot and delicious. Absolutely go if you're in Milwaukee try all the flavors they provide with the daiquiris.“

“Hands down one of my favorite cocktail bars. Also extremely reasonable price for the quality of cocktail. It has a welcoming, cozy, and unique interior that would make for a good look and find game. They also sport a huge selection of liquors and the bartenders there have always been a great source of knowledge on some of their personal favorites if you're looking to branch out. My two favorites to get here are the JLP and the Classic Old Fashioned. Cheers!“

“Best bar in the country, no contest. If you’re in Milwaukee, you’re very lucky to have The Mothership in your backyard. And if you’re not… make the drive, catch the train, book the flight, whatever you have to do, you won’t regret it.“

“This bar is one of Milwaukee's best bars. From the large selection of board games and the large outdoor seating/smoking area to the great vibe and killer service, this place ranks high up there for myself and lots of others. Great place to meet too, as it's easy to find. Highly recommend stopping in sometime to see for yourself if you've never been.“

“I was able to try this place for the first time last weekend and it was awesome! Sugar Maple does a lot of cool pop ups. We went to the Strangers Things one. The cocktails were so fun and tasty. The staff and owner were all so kind!
Highly recommend!“

“Great cocktails and beer, cozy vibes, and a cute outdoor patio. Dog-friendly inside and out! They also do a deal on Mondays where you get a dollar off your drinks if you bring a book. Lots of non-alcoholic, THC, and gluten-free options. They have a couple snacks, but allow you to bring in food from neighboring restaurants.“

“My husband and I came from central IL for work but turned it into a date night. We had so much fun at Lost Whale! We tried nearly all of the cocktails (some twice) and fell in love with the shooters!
We're planning a trip back because we also feel in love with the area and want to explore! Thanks for a great Friday night!“

“The atmosphere is amazing, drinks are wonderful and it’s an all around vibe.“

“What an excellent venue and a fantastic show. Great customer service. We will definitely be back. Marquee & The Moonlighters were so talented. We will definitely be back. A great date night.“

“This is a great music venue, and quite possibly the best Italian restaurant in town. That’s a great combo!“

“We stopped at Boone & Crockett on a Sunday shortly after they opened. The atmosphere was very welcoming and the bartender was really friendly! We got the sazerac and a mocktail - both were delicious.
We’ve also attended events at The Cooperage and it’s always great - food and drinks, atmosphere 10/10.

Highly recommend - a Milwaukee staple!“

“I still recommend but after last night I won't be back for a while. My husband and I drive over an hour to come here when we get a date night. Last night the bartender was slow and we thought no big deal but it became a big deal when both him and the other bartender spent most of their time messing around with their drunk friend. Eventually the bartender with the long hair and beard sat next to a girl at the bar and their drunk friend and the bartender just kept stroking her hair. It was very off putting. The other bartender thats usually there(big Samoan individual?) is always very attentive and nice. This was creepy. Food was good as always but for the 1st time ever I couldn't wait to leave.“

“Great atmosphere and amazing friendly staff. Owner Ben makes sure you have a great experience!“

“Fun bar, great vibes, awesome bartenders!!“

“This is a perfect bar! I’m so impressed by Jade, the bartender. She is a class act! Managing the entire bar on her own with a friendly smile and delicious drinks. It takes a special person to craft such a comfortable, cool, classy spot. A+++++++“

“Yep yep“

“free pool..🙂...friendly staff“

“Great happy hour 4-7pm Tuesday thru Friday. And the same happy hour Friday and Saturday after 9pm! We were so surprised when we got two craft beers and a domestic for only $10! Decorated nicely and also has pool and darts. My only complaint was that it smelled a little smokey.“