Milwaukee is a city known for its diverse culinary scene, with a plethora of restaurants offering a wide range of cuisine. One dish that has become a staple in the city's food scene is French onion soup.
This classic soup is made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and topped with a layer of melted cheese and toasted bread. It is the perfect comfort food for the chilly winters in Milwaukee.
As a local, I have had the opportunity to try French onion soup at various restaurants throughout the city. It is not an easy task to find the perfect bowl of French onion soup, but there are a few places that stand out.
These restaurants go above and beyond to create a flavorful and hearty bowl of French onion soup that will leave you wanting more.
In this blog post, I will be sharing my top picks for the best places for French onion soup in Milwaukee. From cozy cafes to upscale restaurants, I have tried them all and will be giving you an honest and detailed review of each.
Whether you are a local or a visitor to the city, this guide will help you find the perfect bowl of French onion soup to warm you up on a cold day. So, grab a spoon and let's dive in!
1. The Capital Grille
The Capital Grille is a chophouse chain that offers classic American fare in a refined setting. The restaurant serves French onion soup that is simply divine.
The soup is made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and topped with a crouton and melted cheese.
The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the soup is rich and satisfying.
The Capital Grille's French onion soup is a must-try for anyone who loves this classic dish.
2. Bartolotta's Lake Park Bistro
Bartolotta's Lake Park Bistro is a French restaurant that serves up some of the best French onion soup in town. The soup is rich and flavorful, with a perfect balance of cheese and onions.
The restaurant's beautiful decor and lakefront location make it a great spot for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
The service is excellent, and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu and wine list. The prices are on the higher side, but the quality of the food and experience make it worth it.
If you're looking for a place to indulge in some delicious French onion soup, Bartolotta's Lake Park Bistro is the place to go.
3. Five O'Clock Steakhouse
If you're looking for a place to have some delicious French onion soup, Five O'Clock Steakhouse is definitely worth checking out.
This old-school steakhouse has been serving up upscale fare since 1946, and their French onion soup is one of their standout dishes.
The broth is rich and flavorful, and the cheese and onions are plentiful. The dim-lit atmosphere adds to the overall experience, making it a great spot for a date night or special occasion.
Make sure to add Five O'Clock Steakhouse to your list of must-try restaurants.
4. Zarletti
Zarletti is a small Italian restaurant that serves up delicious French onion soup.
The soup is made with caramelized onions and a rich beef broth, topped with melted gruyere cheese and crispy croutons. The soup is served hot and is perfect for a chilly evening.
The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and attentive staff, making it a great spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
If you're looking for a tasty bowl of French onion soup, Zarletti is definitely worth a visit.
5. MOTOR Bar and Restaurant
MOTOR Bar and Restaurant offers delicious French onion soup.
The restaurant has a great ambiance with large windows overlooking a river/canal. The staff is friendly and attentive.
The food is of good quality and the beer selection is excellent. The outdoor patio is dog-friendly.
The restaurant is a perfect place to unwind after visiting the Harley Davidson Museum.
6. Mader's Restaurant
Mader's Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic German cuisine. While their menu boasts a variety of dishes, their French onion soup is a standout.
The warm and savory broth is topped with a generous amount of melted cheese and served with a slice of toasted bread.
The cozy and traditional Bavarian decor adds to the overall dining experience. The attentive and traditionally dressed waitstaff only add to the charm of the restaurant.
If you're in the area, make sure to stop by Mader's Restaurant for a taste of their delicious French onion soup.
7. Stella Van Buren
Stella Van Buren offers a high-end dining experience with upscale Italian dishes, steaks, and seafood.
While they have an extensive menu, their French onion soup is a must-try. The soup is rich and savory with a perfect balance of onions and cheese.
The atmosphere is posh and sophisticated, making it an ideal spot for a date night or business dinner. The service is top-notch, with attentive and knowledgeable staff.
Stella Van Buren is a great choice for those looking for a refined dining experience with excellent French onion soup.
8. The Packing House
The Packing House is a casual supper club that offers a variety of dishes, including french onion soup.
The soup is a must-try for anyone visiting the restaurant, as it is rich, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned.
The atmosphere is lively and the service is attentive, making for a great dining experience overall.
If you're looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a warm bowl of french onion soup, The Packing House won't disappoint.
9. East Town Kitchen + Bar
East Town Kitchen + Bar is a stylish tavern that serves delicious French onion soup.
The soup is made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and topped with a layer of melted cheese. The flavors are rich and savory, making it the perfect comfort food on a chilly day.
The restaurant also offers a variety of other classic American fare and craft beer on tap. The atmosphere is welcoming and the service is friendly.
Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, East Town Kitchen + Bar is definitely worth a visit.
10. Buck Bradley's Saloon & Eatery
Buck Bradley's Saloon & Eatery is a historic landmark in downtown Milwaukee.
This quirky restaurant and bar offers classic American fare and an extensive beer menu. Their french onion soup is a must-try for soup lovers.
The cozy ambiance and attentive service make it a great spot for a casual meal or catching up with friends over drinks.
With its prime location near the Fiserv Forum, it's also a popular spot for pre-game drinks and bites.
11. Cafe Benelux
Cafe Benelux is a European cafe that serves delicious french onion soup. The soup is topped with a thick layer of melted cheese and served steaming hot.
The atmosphere of the cafe is cozy and inviting, with a rooftop patio that offers a beautiful view.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making sure that every customer has a great dining experience.
If you're looking for a place to enjoy a warm bowl of french onion soup, Cafe Benelux is definitely worth a visit.
12. Coach's Pub 'N' Grill
Coach's Pub 'N' Grill is a no-frills sports bar that offers a variety of pub grub and big-screen TVs. Despite the casual atmosphere, their french onion soup is worth trying.
The soup is rich and flavorful, with a generous amount of caramelized onions and melted cheese on top.
The portion size is also satisfying, making it a great choice for a hearty lunch or dinner. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
If you're in the mood for a warm and comforting bowl of french onion soup, Coach's Pub 'N' Grill is definitely worth a visit.
13. Brass Key Restaurant
Looking for a place to satisfy your craving for French onion soup in town, Brass Key Restaurant is your go-to place.
From the moment you walk in, you'll be welcomed by a cozy and comfortable atmosphere. The soup is a definite must-try, as it is rich in flavor and topped with cheese that's perfectly melted.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making sure your dining experience is nothing but the best. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes to choose from, so there's something for everyone.
If you're looking for a place to unwind and enjoy a delicious bowl of French onion soup, Brass Key Restaurant is a great choice.
14. On the Clock Bar & Grill
On the Clock Bar & Grill is a cozy spot for a quick meal and drink. The menu offers a variety of options, including French onion soup that is worth trying.
The ambiance is old-school and charming, with stained glass windows and vintage wooden interior.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a pleasant dining experience. Prices are reasonable, making it a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family.
If you're in the mood for some comfort food and a warm bowl of French onion soup, On the Clock Bar & Grill is worth a visit.
