Milwaukee

An elegant French bistro overlooking Lake Michigan. — Gayot

Students, young families, older couples and bearded, tattooed types pile in to the rock-and-roll Comet for gravy-smothered meatloaf, mac and cheese, vegan gyros and hangover brunch dishes — Lonely Planet

“Simply exquisite” rave fans of this East Side New American, where “unsurpassed creativity” results in “consistently delicious” cuisine hailed as the “gold standard in Milwaukee”. — Zagat

It's the best of both worlds at Crazy Water: the historic charm of an early twentieth-century bar combined with the intriguing taste of creative contemporary cuisine. — Gayot

“The cornbread itself is worth the trip” insist fans of this “boisterous” West Side Cajun-Creole turning out “top-notch” “authentic” cooking “honoring the South”. — Zagat

The vibe is classic steakhouse with dark woodwork, leather furniture, hardwood floors, a fireplace, comfortable booths and a long dining counter. — Gayot

Famed for its desserts—house-made pies, cookies and cupcakes in particular—as well as hearty breakfast and brunch options, this hip Bay View spot buzzes with an eclectic crowd of locals — Where

“Traditional” yet “innovative” breakfast fare including “creative egg dishes” and a few globally accented plates are the draw at this West Side American. — Zagat

“favorite for a martini and burger” retains its “see-and-be-seen” status thanks to a “trendy” Downtown locale, “funky” space decorated with ever-changing artwork and “reasonably priced" American menu. — Zagat

Offers “high-quality” seafood-focused plates in “warm surroundings” with “beautiful decor” and large windows that provide “spectacular views”. — Zagat

An excellent, if small (only 10 tables) old-fashioned steakhouse on the South Side, about a mile from Miller Park — Where

A casual small plate dining restaurant and bar located in the historic Walker's Point neighborhood, La Merenda satisfies cravings for both local and international flavor — Where

The Bluemound Road location specializes in steaks, fish and elaborate Italian specialties, and also serves pizza. — Where

Pair a pint with a zippy starter like macaroni and cheese bites, or ease into a mellow dish like stout pot roast, served with a side of vegetables. — Gayot

A wide cross-section gathers at this trendy spot in the Bay View neighborhood, where the menu is as eclectic as the decor — Fodor's

La Fuente offers quality Mexican food in a down-home, cozy environment despite its size. — Gayot

Set in Cudahy Tower, this Downtown New American earns “high marks all around” for “top-notch” cuisine and “beautiful surroundings” with “sophisticated decor” and views of Lake Michigan. — Zagat

Start with small plates such as carpaccio or panko calamari before diving into the stars of the show: prime cuts of Kobe-style wagyu beef, barrel-cut filet mignon and a 14-oz. dry-aged New York Strip. — Where

This popular neighborhood restaurant and pub serves up Irish and American favorites, such as grilled yellow fin tuna, lamb stew, and corned beef sandwiches — Where

It's “like eating at grandma's” say fans of the “mouthwatering” Serbian “delights” and “old-world charm” at this cash-only Bay View “institution”. — Zagat