Best Upscale Salad in Milwaukee | Top 3 Upscale Spots

23 restaurants in Best Upscale Salad in Milwaukee | Top 3 Upscale Spots

• Pilot Project — American · rated 4/5: This dynamic social hub hums with the energy of a creative laboratory, where the morning aroma of freshly roasted local coffee gives way to an evening of spirited discovery over shared tables. Guests can explore a boundary-pushing tap list of botanical hard kombuchas and craft brews while tucking into crusty artisanal sandwiches or vibrant seasonal salads that elevate traditional pub fare. The experience is one of relaxed innovation, offering a welcoming space to savor everything from a daring "Devious" cocktail to a sophisticated, non-alcoholic pint.
• Maggio's Wood Fired Pizza — Italian · rated 4/5: The warm glow of a wood-fired oven serves as the heart of this inviting neighborhood spot, where the air is thick with the irresistible aroma of bubbling mozzarella and toasted garlic bread bites. Artisanal Margherita pizzas with perfectly charred crusts share the table with hearty meatball sandwiches and vibrant Caprese salads, creating a rustic feast that celebrates simple, high-quality ingredients.
• Joey Gerard's — Steakhouse · rated 4/5: Joey Gerard’s reimagines the nostalgic charm of a classic mid-century supper club, where the clinking of martini glasses and the communal ritual of a loaded relish tray set the stage for a timeless evening. Guests gather around rotating Lazy Susans and share plates of crispy rumaki or bubbling crab artichoke dip, savoring a menu that honors the golden age of dining with chilled shrimp cocktails and perfectly dressed wedge salads. The atmosphere hums with a warm, vintage energy, inviting diners to linger over hearty favorites in a space that feels both elegantly sophisticated and comfortingly familiar.
• Café Corazón — Mexican · rated 4/5: Steeped in a vibrant, soulful energy, Café Corazón welcomes guests into a lively space where the bright zing of fresh pico de gallo and the rich, velvety pull of melted queso set the stage for a festive gathering. Golden, crisp mini chimichangas and savory mushroom quesadillas share the table with refreshing avocado salads and earthy vegan ragouts, creating a communal dining experience that celebrates bold Latin flavors and heartfelt hospitality.
• Lebnani House — Middle Eastern · rated 4/5: Lebnani House invites guests into a vibrant, sun-drenched sanctuary where the air is bright with the scent of fresh mint, toasted pita, and zesty lemon. A kaleidoscope of garden-fresh salads—from the herb-heavy crunch of traditional tabbouleh to the exotic sweetness of papaya—takes center stage alongside steaming bowls of velvety lentil soup, creating a nourishing experience that honors the soulful, vegetable-forward traditions of the Levant.
• 600 EAST Café — American · rated 4/5: This sun-drenched urban sanctuary welcomes guests with the comforting aroma of freshly roasted coffee and the irresistible scent of golden pastries straight from the oven. Vibrant salads and steaming bowls of artisanal soup provide a fresh, flavorful escape from the city bustle, while handcrafted wraps and specialty drinks turn a simple midday break into a moment of pure culinary comfort.
• Up and Under Pub — American · rated 4/5: This spirited neighborhood haunt invites guests into a warm, wood-accented space where the convivial hum of conversation mingles with the rhythmic clinking of glasses. Crispy, golden-battered fish and chips and succulent signature burgers anchor a menu of elevated comfort, perfectly paired with a curated rotation of rare local brews and exclusive wine selections. Whether tucked into a booth for a vibrant seasonal salad or exploring a hidden gem from the cellar, diners find a refined yet relaxed sanctuary that celebrates the very best of the pub tradition.
• South Shore Terrace — American · rated 4/5: Sun-drenched views and a gentle breeze define the experience at South Shore Terrace, where the relaxed charm of lakeside dining meets a vibrant, open-air atmosphere. Golden, crispy flatbreads topped with creamy alfredo and tender chicken emerge from the kitchen alongside vibrant kale salads tossed in earthy truffle dressing, offering a sophisticated yet approachable twist on casual comfort. It is a destination where the scenic surroundings and fresh, savory flavors invite guests to linger and savor the simple joy of a meal shared under the open sky.
• Motor Bar & Restaurant — American · rated 4/5: Motor Bar & Restaurant revs up the dining experience with an industrial-chic vibe where the aroma of hickory-smoked wings and warm Milwaukee pretzels sets a bold, high-octane tone. The kitchen transforms classic comfort into an art form, serving up bubbling buffalo dips and golden, squeaky cheese curds alongside hearty chilis that provide a soulful, smoky warmth. Whether you are tucking into a loaded plate of BBQ chips or a vibrant beet and goat cheese salad, every bite captures a rugged yet refined spirit perfect for fueling your next urban adventure.
• Honeypie — American · rated 4/5: Honeypie radiates a nostalgic charm, where the inviting aroma of bubbling French onion soup and golden, truffle-dusted fries creates an immediate sense of home. The kitchen transforms elevated comfort food into an art form, offering everything from the satisfying squeak of local cheese curds to vibrant, farm-fresh salads that celebrate simple, soulful flavors. It is a sun-drenched sanctuary for those seeking a leisurely meal that feels both familiar and masterfully refined.
• East End Wine Bar — Mediterranean · rated 4/5: Sunlight dances across the polished surfaces of this versatile neighborhood gem, where the morning begins with the comforting hum of the espresso machine and the delicate fragrance of premium steeped teas. As the day unfolds, the atmosphere shifts into a sophisticated social hub, inviting guests to linger over vibrant, farm-fresh salads and an array of artisanal snacks that pair beautifully with a relaxed, conversational spirit.
• Windhover Coffee — American · rated 3/5: Sun-drenched and serene, this airy retreat invites guests to linger over the delicate aroma of freshly roasted beans and the gentle steam rising from artisanal tea blends. Vibrant, garden-fresh salads and thoughtfully curated snacks offer a light, nourishing accompaniment to the masterfully brewed beverages, creating a harmonious balance of flavor and tranquility.
• Strange Town — Mediterranean: This eclectic neighborhood gem invites guests into a world of unconventional charm, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of garlic-roasted potatoes and earthy mushroom tartines. Creative, plant-forward plates like a decadent cauliflower cacio e pepe and artfully composed winter salads pair seamlessly with whimsical, story-driven cocktails that spark conversation and curiosity. Whether sharing a plate of "fancy nachos" or lingering over a fig and olive tapenade, diners find themselves immersed in a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates bold, global flavors and a spirited, bohemian soul.
• Grassroots Salad Company — American: A vibrant oasis of garden-fresh flavors where crisp greens and colorful, seasonal toppings are transformed into nourishing masterpieces right before your eyes. From the smoky heat of a Santa Fe wrap to the bright, Mediterranean notes of the Kriti salad, each dish offers a refreshing symphony of textures and tastes designed to fuel your day with wholesome energy.
• Third Coast Provisions — Seafood: Step into a refined coastal escape where the rhythmic shucking of fresh oysters sets the stage for an evening of sophisticated indulgence. The atmosphere hums with the clink of chilled martini glasses as guests savor the playful elegance of crisp Caesar salads and golden fries, a classic trio that anchors the vibrant dining room. As the week unfolds, Thursday nights invite a slower pace with meticulously crafted multi-course dinners, where each plate is a thoughtful exploration of flavor designed to be lingered over with perfectly paired wines.
• Café Calatrava — Mediterranean: Bathed in natural light and framed by sweeping architectural lines, this airy sanctuary offers a sophisticated retreat where the aroma of freshly ground espresso mingles with the crisp, vibrant colors of seasonal salads. Guests can linger over artisanal teas and delicate snacks while soaking in the serene atmosphere, making every light bite feel like a curated extension of the surrounding artistry.
• Tess — American: Tess invites guests into a vibrant, light-filled space where the air hums with conversation and the enticing aromas of coastal seafood and slow-braised meats. The kitchen masterfully balances rustic textures and bold flavors, from the delicate crunch of a golden crab cake to the melt-in-your-mouth richness of 24-hour pork belly. Every plate, whether a crisp harvest salad or a perfectly seared bistro steak, reflects a commitment to seasonal freshness and soulful, contemporary cooking.
• Alem Ethiopian Village — Ethiopian: Step into a vibrant sanctuary where the air is thick with the earthy perfume of berbere and slow-simmered legumes, inviting guests to gather around colorful communal platters. Crispy sambusas give way to savory fillings, while a mosaic of spicy Yemiser Wot and garlicky Gomen creates a tactile feast meant to be shared and savored by hand. This soul-warming experience celebrates the rich traditions of Ethiopian hospitality, where every bite of zesty lentil salad and hearty soup feels like an invitation into a welcoming village home.
• Flannery's Bar & Restaurant — American: Flannery's Bar & Restaurant serves as a lively neighborhood anchor where the hum of conversation mingles with the clink of glasses in a space designed for shared moments and communal celebration. Abundant platters of savory sausages, crisp garden vegetables, and creamy dips anchor the table, complemented by delicate silver dollar sandwiches and zesty tortilla pinwheels that evoke the effortless charm of a grand social gathering. This welcoming retreat invites guests to linger over chilled pasta salads and fresh fruit, offering a quintessential hospitality experience where every bite is meant to be passed and enjoyed together.
• Rodizio Grill — Steakhouse: The air hums with the lively energy of a traditional Brazilian churrascaria, where the savory aroma of fire-roasted meats wafts from the grill to create an atmosphere of festive abundance. Skilled gauchos circle the room with skewers of succulent picanha and garlic-rubbed sirloin carved tableside, while a vibrant spread of gourmet salads offers a fresh, colorful counterpoint to this indulgent celebration of South American flavors.
• Three Brothers — Italian: Step into a warm, soulful enclave where the comforting scents of slow-simmered goulash and savory, flaky burek evoke the heart of a traditional Serbian kitchen. The air hums with the sizzle of flame-grilled raznjici and spiced chevapchichi, served alongside vibrant salads and tender sarma that celebrate the rich, rustic heritage of the Balkans. Every plate, from the delicate chicken dumpling soup to the layered richness of musaka, offers a nostalgic journey through time-honored recipes meant for sharing and lingering over.
• Santino's Little Italy — Italian: Santino's Little Italy captures the spirit of a bustling neighborhood kitchen, where the golden crunch of arancini and the fragrance of warm focaccia dipped in Montamore cheese create an immediate sense of home. The table becomes a vibrant mosaic of shared plates, ranging from the crisp, salty bite of calamari fritti to the garden-fresh brightness of a classic Caprese salad. This inviting retreat celebrates the art of Italian hospitality, turning simple ingredients into a soul-warming experience that lingers long after the last bite.
• Barbiere's Italian Inn — Italian: The air at this welcoming neighborhood haunt is thick with the intoxicating aroma of legendary garlic bread and rich, slow-simmered sauces that evoke the warmth of a traditional family kitchen. Guests settle into a cozy atmosphere to share crisp house salads and hearty portions of cheese-laden lasagna, while the signature home-style pizzas offer a comforting, golden-crusted taste of heritage in every bite.