Best Historic Restaurants in Wauwatosa

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Cuisine

AmericanItalianSeafoodBarbecueTapas / Small PlatesComfort Food

Regions

Milwaukee

Areas

GreendaleMilwaukeeWauwatosa

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for fine wines

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeaway only

Seating Options

BarStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Accessibility

Gender-neutral restroomWheelchair access

11 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Ristorante Bartolotta dal 1993 restaurant

1. Ristorante Bartolotta dal 1993

4.8

Exceptional(3306)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Italian • Wauwatosa

Booked 16 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 Saz's State House Restaurant restaurant

2. Saz's State House Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(349)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Barbecue • Milwaukee

Booked 12 times today

In 1976 Milwaukee native Steve Sazama, a.k.a. Saz, opened Saz's State House Restaurant in a historic building nestled beside the railroad tracks on the West Side of town. Saz knew how to make his customers happy with great food and stellar service. What he didn't know was that 45 years later Saz's State House would be the cornerstone for a thriving operation that includes successful Catering, Festivals and retail Barbecue Products divisions. Get the insider scoop on Saz's - click here to read the whole story!

3. Safina

4.9

Exceptional(359)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Milwaukee

Booked 17 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.

4. The Edison

4.5

Awesome(429)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • Milwaukee

Booked 32 times today

The Edison is an inspired, neighborhood restaurant. We believe in being thoughtful in the way we prepare your food and engage with our community. And like you, we know the value of a great meal shared between friends. Nestled in the heart of Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward, The Edison serves indulgent, classic American cuisine and nostalgic cocktails at our pre-prohibition, speakeasy-inspired bar.

5. Tre Rivali

4.7

Exceptional(1549)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Mediterranean • Milwaukee

Booked 12 times today

Tre Rivali is a vibrant restaurant, lounge and cafe. This inspired restaurant is in the heart of Milwaukee's Historic Third Ward District. The menu features Italian and Mediterranean influences. Think scratch made pasta and wood oven pizzas. Paired with craft cocktails and a well curated wine list.**Please note when making a reservation that we do not reserve tables for outside patio dining. We will do our best to accommodate your request but patio dining is on a first available and walk-in basis only. We appreciate your patience and understanding.**

A photo of Joey Gerard's - A Bartolotta Supper Club - Greendale restaurant

6. Joey Gerard's - A Bartolotta Supper Club - Greendale

4.4

Awesome(3910)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Greendale

Booked 24 times today

Joey Gerard's - A Bartolotta Supper Club is located in the charming village of historic Greendale. Opened in August of 2012, Joey Gerard's pays homage to Joe Bartolotta's childhood and the supper clubs he frequented with his parents growing up. Midwest supper clubs were born in the early 1930s mostly in rural Wisconsin and became an enticing destination where people would gather for cocktails, supper, and entertainment. Neighborhood camaraderie and a comfortable atmosphere is a commonality all supper clubs hold to this day.The vibe at Joey Gerard’s embraces a casual dining experience. Combining classic supper club menu options, a great steak selection, classic cocktails and ice cream drinks make Joey Gerard’s the perfect gathering place.Reservations are recommended, and we have a 15-minute grace period, so please call us if you are running late.

A photo of Central Standard Crafthouse and Kitchen restaurant

7. Central Standard Crafthouse and Kitchen

4.8

Exceptional(339)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Milwaukee

Booked 9 times today

WE DO NOT OFFER FOOD SERVICE OR RESERVATIONS ON OUR ROOFTOP PATIO, WHICH IS "FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED". We highly encourage you to make a reservation in the main dining room and then head up for a cocktail or two after! For groups larger than 4, please call the restaurant (414) 455-8870.Located in the heart of downtown Milwaukee, Central Standard Distillery's Crafthouse & Kitchen is an experience like none other. Enjoy culinary creations from our scratch kitchen or stop by for a few of our award winning cocktails at the bar or lounge created with Central Standard spirits. Exec. Chef David Sapp Sous Chef Noah Shirikian

8. SAGE - MKE

3.0

Good(87)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary American • Milwaukee

Booked 2 times today

Concept heavily focused on art, color, growth and sustainability. This hip haunt features shareable cuisine inspired by nature’s organic palette. Guests will enjoy bright, dramatic plating on the menu. Plants and protein will be featured, accessing the beauty of the changing seasons. SAGE’s menu to include herbs and produce grown on site. (indoor and outdoor) The SAGE cocktail program is inspired by flavors from the garden while visually representing a hue derived from the natural ingredients. Guests will access a similar NBV eclectic mocktail menu. Local beer (draft and bottle) and wine to be featured.SAGE will feature patio and bar seating in the lush gardens on site. (May-October)

9. ASH Milwaukee

4.3

Awesome(386)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• American • Milwaukee

Booked 1 time today

We’re not just serving meals; we’re crafting a dining experience that celebrates the essence of seasonal, farm-to-table freshness. Our updated menu honors traditional flavors with a modern twist, highlighting the vibrant produce and artisanal craftsmanship of our community. As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, join us to savor the warmth of thoughtfully prepared dishes, where every bite tells a story of care and dedication to both our guests and their wellbeing. Classic hearth cooking brings smoky flavors and charring over an open flame to enhance the flavor of meats and vegetables.The Ash dinner hours Thursday - Saturday (5pm-10pm)

A photo of Motor at the Harley-Davidson Museum restaurant

10. Motor at the Harley-Davidson Museum

4.4

Awesome(472)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Milwaukee

Booked 4 times today

At the heart of the 20-acre Harley-Davidson Museum campus, MOTOR Bar & Restaurant is a destination for connection, community, and conversation. MOTOR offers bold and spirited food and beverage with a focus on local products, genuine hospitality, and memory-making events that will keep guests coming back all year long. Our desirable location in Milwaukee on the Menomonee River, combined with the iconic history of Harley-Davidson, fosters a unique and inviting space for people to gather and connect beyond the plate.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

K
karolinap
Wisconsin •2 reviews
4.0
Dined 1 day ago
For me personally the food was to salty. The rest was very nice
More info
Ristorante Bartolotta dal 1993Price: Very Expensive• Italian• Wauwatosa
•
4.8
D
DanielVIP
Chicago / Illinois •59 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Excellent food, great service, fun vibe, but you can hear yourself talk which I like.
More info
Tre RivaliPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• Milwaukee
•
4.7
M
mark
Wisconsin •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Alex was top notch! Our first time visiting, and quite enjoyed everything!
More info
The EdisonPrice: Expensive• American• Milwaukee
•
4.5
K
KatieVIP
Wisconsin •1 review
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Great ambiance and delicious food Wonderful service and family style portions
More info
SafinaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Milwaukee
•
4.9
J
John
Wisconsin •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on 21 Feb 2025
I think Saz's ribs are the best in town, and really like the "sassy" BBQ sauce which I consider mildly spicy. Everyone who got the ribs loved them and great cold slaw, meaty baked beans and cheesy mac n cheese for sides. We sat in the front area this time, which was fine, but I prefer the back table area, a bit quieter, and less drafty since away from the front door. I always find the wait staff friendly and helpful. Saz's is my go to place for ribs, a Milwaukee institution!
More info
Saz's State House RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Milwaukee
•
4.7

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