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Best Authentic Restaurants in Milwaukee

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19 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Safina restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(427)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Milwaukee
Booked 18 times today
It’s been over four years since guests last tasted the Sicilian dishes from longtime Milwaukee restaurant Giovanni’s. But all of that changes with Safina: a new casual Italian concept that comes to the historic building at 785 N. Jefferson St.Focusing on comforting dishes with roots in Sicily and the southern regions of Italy, Safina's goal is to keep the menu familiar and accessible. The restaurant also features a full bar and second-level seating, complete with wood and marble finishes that highlight the rustic, modern Italian ambiance.
A photo of SafeHouse restaurant
4.2
Awesome(761)
Price: Moderate
• American • Milwaukee
Booked 53 times today
Offering refuge to spies national and international since 1966, SafeHouse is Milwaukee's best-kept secret. This iconic, hidden restaurant & bar is a blast for agents of all ages. Spies must find the red door and pass a fun clearance test if they do not know the password required for entry. Once behind the red door, spies will find authentic espionage artifacts, pop culture references, a disappearing booth, a secret exit, and more. Enjoy a fun night out in Milwaukee, or a covert daytime mission for the family at this kid-friendly, spy hideout. SafeHouse offers venue space for agents looking to celebrate special occasions, birthdays, bachelor and bachelorette parties, and group events. Grab your fellow spies to enjoy award-winning cheese curds, solve recon duties, and learn about SafeHouse's history. Find the red door if you accept this mission, Agent!
A photo of Amilinda restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(362)
Price: Expensive
• Spanish • Milwaukee
Booked 7 times today
Amilinda is a celebrated Milwaukee restaurant known for its vibrant blend of Spanish and Portuguese-inspired cuisine. Owner and executive chef Gregory León leads the kitchen with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative flavor combinations. His culinary talent has earned him four James Beard Award nominations, highlighting his influence and expertise in the culinary world. Amilinda continues to be a standout dining experience with the reputation as a top dinning destination that attracts locals and visitors alike.Located in the heart of downtown Milwaukee, just blocks away from the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Pfister Hotel, Amilinda offers a cozy and inviting space with rustic decor, reflecting its Iberian Peninsula influences. The warm, intimate atmosphere complements the creative dishes from the kitchen, making it a destination for memorable meals.
A photo of Flourchild restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(209)
Price: Moderate
• American • Milwaukee
Booked 4 times today
Scratch-made Pizza. Craft Beer and Cocktails. Retro Digs. Make Love. Eat Pizza.
A photo of Movida at Hotel Madrid restaurant
4.5
Awesome(2076)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas / Small Plates • Milwaukee
Booked 42 times today
The same Movida food you love, same great cocktails, with all the sangria you can enjoy. This is Movida at Hotel Madrid.Movida, translated meaning the movement, is a Spanish tapas restaurant located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Beyond the food, Movida features a recognized program that consists of Spanish wines, craft cocktails and house-made Sangria.
A photo of Saffron - Modern Indian Dining restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(818)
Price: Expensive
• Indian • Milwaukee
Booked 29 times today
A modern twist to traditional Indian Cuisine elevating the dining experience with its Artful Presentation & Contemporary Design
A photo of Char'd restaurant
4.4
Awesome(755)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary Korean • Milwaukee
Booked 8 times today
Char’d offers ever-changing Korean-themed small plates perfect for 'shared plate dining' or snacking along with drinks. Full-meal-sized Korean traditional entrées are served with a bowl of rice. Our dishes showcase elevated presentations and modern techniques to re-interpret authentic Korean cuisine, while staying true to its roots. We pride ourselves in featuring locally source and seasonal products to create ‘New Korean’ dishes as an homage to traditional Korean culinary skills and recipes.
A photo of Smoke Shack restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(472)
Price: Moderate
• American • Milwaukee
Booked 1 time today
Smoke Shack is the real deal when it comes to American barbecue. Their dedication to crafting smoked meats is evident in their daily practice of smoking your meat the day before to ensure the best quality. Their menu offers a variety of dishes that are uniquely smoked, from brisket to ribs. The reviews are glowing, with customers praising the delicious food and friendly service. As one reviewer said, 'The ambiance at the outside dining room was like having dinner around a campfire and we love to camp.'
A photo of Ristorante Bartolotta dal 1993 restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(3343)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Wauwatosa
Booked 24 times today
Nestled in an historic brewery building in the Village of Wauwatosa, Ristorante Bartolotta dal 1993 is the flagship restaurant in The Bartolotta Restaurants portfolio. Conceived by The Bartolotta Restaurants co-founders, restaurateur Joe Bartolotta and his brother, Chef Paul Bartolotta, it is acclaimed for its handmade pasta and authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy, intimate setting. Executive Chef Juan Urbieta presents the popular “Un Viaggio in Italia” menu series, highlighting a different city or region of Italy with a four-course, customizable menu that takes guests on a journey of Italy and changes monthly.The restaurant was recently awarded the coveted Marchio Ospitalità Italiana certification of excellence by the Italian Union of Chamber of Commerce. This prestigious award honors a restaurant for its commitment to “Made in Italy” quality and authenticity. Reservations are recommended, and we have a 15-minute grace period, so please call us if you are running late.
A photo of Five O'Clock Steakhouse restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(4421)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Milwaukee
Booked 49 times today
Rich in tradition and free of trends, the Five O’Clock Steakhouse is nothing short of timeless. A family-owned & independently operated Supper Club, the Five O'Clock specializes in serving the finest steaks paired with a notable wine list, classic cocktails, as well as outstanding, personalized service. Five O’Clock has been named “One of America’s Best Steakhouses” by TV host Rachel Ray, described as a "Classic Supper-Club Setting" by TravelandLeisure.com and was featured on The Travel Channel’s “Steak Paradise 3.” Five O'Clock was voted "#1 Steakhouse in Milwaukee" by Shepherd Express & Milwaukee Magazine. We were also named among the top steakhouses in Milwaukee by OnMilwaukee.com. The Alley Cat Lounge at Five O'Clock Steakhouse features Milwaukee's best free live music weekly, classic cocktails and a 1940’s retro-lounge ambience. You’re only a stranger once at the Five O’ Clock Steakhouse!

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • PaulVIP
    Wisconsin •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    My wife and I recently dined at Movida in celebration of our anniversary. When we agreed, they wished us a happy anniversary and offered us a celebratory glass of cava. The service was wonderful. The food was great. It did get a little bit loud in areas; There is a large single room with a lot of tables and I think it just echoes in there.
    More info
    Movida at Hotel MadridPrice: Moderate• Tapas / Small Plates• Milwaukee
    4.5
  • Megan
    Baja California •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    It was such a wonderful dinner for my mom’s birthday. We’ve been meaning to try Safina for awhile now and finally got a reservation. While we could only snag a 4:30pm reso, it actually worked out really well and gave us a quiet dining room. We ordered the fried mozzarella and eggplant for starters and the Spiedini special, ragu and stuffed filet for main. For dessert we had the tiramisu, cheesecake, and they brought out a little cannoli for my mom’s birthday. All were exceptional. Giovanni walked around to check-in and talked a little about family in Sicily. Our waitress Marissa was so lovely as well and did a fantastic job. Highly recommend!
    More info
    SafinaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Milwaukee
    4.9
  • Mary
    Wisconsin •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    My sister was visiting from out of town and suggested that we go out for a nice dinner. I chose Amalinda as I have eaten there before and knew that it would appeal to her love of good food. I was not wrong. Chef Gregory Leon (with the accent on the "o") took the time to chat with us making the evening extra special. Everything was top notch!
    More info
    AmilindaPrice: Expensive• Spanish• Milwaukee
    4.8
  • Jason
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Jul 11, 2025
    Staff is awesome and lots of fun! Food is great and atmosphere is once in a lifetime experience.
    More info
    SafeHousePrice: Moderate• American• Milwaukee
    4.2
  • Shaneice
    Chicago / Illinois •23 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jul 5, 2025
    saw a video on IG of the crab rangoon pizza being made, and the spouse and i instantly knew that we had to try it ASAP. and it absolutely ended up being as good as it looked. the cream cheese base and sweet sauce drizzled on top gave it that authentic crab rangoon taste. i’m glad that video came up on my TL. we also had the wings (fantastic) and spinach artichoke cheese dip (also fantastic). not one bad thing on that table. although i was the one dining, flourchild truly ate and left no crumbs.
    More info
    FlourchildPrice: Moderate• American• Milwaukee
    4.6

Discover best authentic restaurants in Milwaukee

Discover the heart of Milwaukee's dining scene with our curated list of restaurants renowned for their authenticity. Whether you're craving the robust flavors of American barbecue, the comfort of Italian family recipes, or the innovation of global cuisine, Milwaukee offers a rich tapestry of culinary experiences that cater to every palate. Each restaurant we feature has been praised for not only the authenticity of their food but also for their commitment to quality ingredients and memorable dining environments. Milwaukee’s restaurant landscape is vibrant and diverse, with establishments that blend traditional cooking methods with modern culinary innovation. From chef’s counters where you can watch your meal being prepared, to cozy spots that feel like dining in grandma's kitchen, the authenticity of Milwaukee's dining options is sure to enchant and satisfy. No matter where you choose to dine, you'll find knowledgeable staff, welcoming atmospheres, and a commitment to providing a truly genuine dining experience. These restaurants are celebrated not just for their excellent cuisine but also for their ability to create a sense of community and connection through food. If you're seeking an authentic dining experience in Milwaukee, you'll be delighted by the range of options that celebrate both local and international culinary traditions. Remember, an authentic meal isn't just about the food; it's about the entire experience that surrounds it, making each meal a memorable event.

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