Milwaukee’s food scene is one like no other, offering flavors as diverse as the city itself. As you start crafting your 2025 bucket list of restaurants you want to try in the new year, check out the Near West Side for plenty of must-visit spots, from family-owned barbecue joints to classic steakhouses steeped in old-world charm.
Visit any of these Near West Side restaurants below to experience a meal that is unmistakably Milwaukee:
Daddy’s Soul Food & Grille | 754 N 27th St. | (414) 448-6165
Looking for classic Southern soul food, but you’re in Milwaukee? Try Daddy’s Soul Food & Grille, a tribute to family and great food. Founder Bennie Smith opened the restaurant with his father in mind, honoring the tradition of soul food and family. Offering classics like fried chicken, collard greens, catfish and salmon croquettes, Daddy’s does soul food the real way. Visit Daddy’s Soul Food & Grille and feed your soul!
The Fitz at the Ambassador Hotel | 2308 W Wisconsin Ave. | (414) 345-5015
Looking to treat yourself or a loved one to a high-quality, fine dining experience? The Fitz, located inside the illustrious Ambassador Hotel, gives one a luxury dinner combining tradition and modernity. Its name is a nod to F. Scott Fitzgerald’s creativity and the Roaring Twenties, the era in which the Ambassador Hotel was founded. Enjoy delicious pasta made with unique ingredients alongside nutritious salads, hearty burgers and tender pork chops. The Fitz will not disappoint!
The Good Way Grille (Ruthie Mae’s) | 925 N 27th St. | (414) 485-6676
Looking for a restaurant offering hearty dishes like hot wings, pizzas and burgers that will treat you like family? Try Milwaukee’s Good Way Grille! Specializing in wings, burgers and chicken sandwiches, the restaurant is no rookie when it comes to whipping up something delicious! They also offer a Fish Fry on Fridays and a daily breakfast. The Good Way Grille is at your service!
Jizzles Sandwich Shop | 2611 W State St. | (414) 447-9780
Jizzles Sandwich Shop is not your local, everyday sandwich joint. It offers customers combinations with bold flavors using locally sourced ingredients meant to be affordable for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a traditional sandwich with quality ingredients or feeling adventurous and wanting to try something new, Jizzles is the spot!
Lisa Kaye Bistro | 3801 W Vliet St. | (414) 404-9879
Opened and operated by Milwaukee’s Chef Lisa McKay, Lisa Kaye Bistro offers customers a blend of timeless comfort food with modern, sophisticated dishes inspired by places from around the world. The menu offers everything from breakfast items to deep-fried chicken, pasties to beef short ribs. There is something on the menu for everyone!
For a complete guide to Near West Side restaurants, see our comprehensive dining guide!
