Greater Milwaukee's Best Food Halls and Markets

Greater Milwaukee boasts an extraordinary diversity of food halls, public markets, and specialty grocers spanning from Kenosha's iconic Mars Cheese Castle to Ozaukee County's artisan cheese shops. This comprehensive guide covers 100+ venues across the metropolitan area—organized geographically to help families plan efficient outings and discover new culinary adventures close to home.

Whether you're seeking a Saturday morning farmers market ritual, hunting for authentic international ingredients, or looking for a family-friendly food hall with entertainment, this guide delivers the practical detail: addresses, hours, parking tips, kid-friendly features, and what makes each destination special.

Milwaukee's premier food hall destinations

Milwaukee's food hall scene has matured into a legitimate dining destination, anchored by venues that rank among the nation's best.

3rd Street Market Hall

275 W. Wisconsin Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53203 (inside The Avenue MKE)
Website: 3rdstmarkethall.com
Hours: Mon–Thu 8am–8pm; Fri 8am–10pm; Sat 9am–10pm; Sun 9am–7pm

Ranked #2 Best Food Hall in the US by USA Today, this 2022 addition to downtown Milwaukee features 20+ locally owned vendors in the beautifully renovated historic Grand Avenue building. The hall shines as a family destination thanks to free games including shuffleboard, giant Jenga, cornhole, and a video game lounge.

Top vendors for families: Dairyland (burgers and custard), Drip Chocolate (crepes and desserts), Can-D Shop (bulk candy), Pizza Shuttle (Milwaukee institution), Bebe Cafe (breakfast opens 8am), and Anytime Arepa (gluten-free Venezuelan options).

Family-friendly highlights: The Topgolf Swing Suite offers golf simulators bookable for any family size. Wednesday trivia at 6:30pm provides entertainment for older kids.

Parking: Connected to Self-Park MKE, downtown's largest parking structure (entrance at 615 N. 2nd St.). Validation available.

Price range: $–$$ | Counter service, casual dining

Milwaukee Public Market

400 N. Water St., Milwaukee, WI 53202 (Historic Third Ward)
Phone: (414) 336-1111
Website: milwaukeepublicmarket.org
Hours: Mon–Sat 10am–8pm; Sun 10am–6pm

Named USA Today's #1 Best Public Market two consecutive years, Milwaukee Public Market celebrates 20 years in 2025 as the city's iconic food destination. Modeled after Seattle's Pike Place, this Third Ward landmark houses 19 independently owned merchants under soaring ceilings decorated with vintage neon signs and a converted VW bus serving food.

Must-visit vendors: St. Paul Fish Company (famous lobster rolls, live seafood), West Allis Cheese & Sausage Shoppe (200+ award-winning cheeses), The Spice House (premium spices since 1957), Oro di Oliva (70+ olive oils and balsamics for tasting), and Thief Wine (boutique wine bar).

Family-friendly highlights: The second-floor "Palm Garden" provides spacious family seating. The Madame Kuony Demonstration Kitchen offers cooking classes, including some designed for kids. Diverse food options satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Parking: Free first 30 minutes in the adjacent surface lot (Water Street entrance), free 1 hour with purchase. Weekend metered parking is free. The HOP streetcar stops directly at the market (free ride).

Price range: $–$$ | Wide variety from quick bites to specialty items

Sherman Phoenix Marketplace

3536 W. Fond du Lac Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53216
Phone: (262) 228-6021
Website: shermanphoenix.com
Hours: Tue–Fri 11am–7pm; Sat 10am–7pm; Closed Sun–Mon

A powerful story of community resilience, Sherman Phoenix rose from the site of a BMO Harris Bank building burned during 2016 civil unrest. Today it showcases 25+ predominantly Black-owned businesses, making it both a food destination and cultural experience.

Food highlights: Purple Door Ice Cream (first vendor inside the entrance), Funky Fresh Spring Rolls (baked, not fried, with creative fillings), Buffalo Boss (hormone-free wings), Confectionately Yours (family recipes), and The Next Level Vegans (vegan comfort food like lasagna and mac and cheese).

Family-friendly highlights: Free WiFi with no time limits. The open floor plan accommodates strollers easily. Public tours available—schedule via website for an educational family outing.

Parking: Free street parking and surface lot

Price range: $ | Community-focused affordability

Zócalo Food Truck Park

636 S. 6th St., Milwaukee, WI 53204 (Walker's Point)
Website: zocalofoodpark.com
Hours: Wed 3pm–10pm; Thu 11am–10pm; Fri–Sat 11am–11pm; Sun 11am–8pm; Closed Mon–Tue

Milwaukee's first permanent food truck park (opened 2019) brings the spirit of Mexico's bustling town squares to Walker's Point. Named for the Zócalo plaza tradition and inspired by Frida Kahlo's famous blue house, this outdoor destination features 8+ rotating food trucks plus an indoor tavern.

Current trucks: Mazorca Tacos (authentic Mexican), Ruby's Bagels (handcrafted), Scratch Ice Cream (traditional and vegan), Modern Maki (sushi), and Sap Sap (Southeast Asian).

Family-friendly highlights: Kids can roam the outdoor space while parents enjoy craft cocktails. Bocce ball court provides entertainment. Heated huts available for winter visits.

Parking: Street parking in Walker's Point neighborhood

Price range: $ | Food truck prices

International and ethnic markets

Milwaukee's immigrant communities have created an extraordinary network of international grocers where families can explore global cuisines without leaving the metro area.

Asian markets

Pacific Produce stands as the area's largest Asian supermarket at 5455 S. 27th St. (second location: 8340 W. Appleton Ave.). Housed in a former Kohl's supermarket, it stocks products from across East and Southeast Asia—kimchi, Thai chilies, whole salmon, and aisles of Asian snacks like White Rabbit candies. A small food court offers Thai carryout and Banh Mi Nhu Y Vietnamese sandwiches. Hours: Daily 9am–9pm. Very affordable with a large parking lot.

Pan-Asia Supermarket at 6910 W. Greenfield Ave., West Allis opened in July 2025 as Wisconsin's largest Asian grocery, carrying 10,000+ products from China, Vietnam, Korea, India, Japan, Thailand, and Pakistan. The extensive produce department features live seafood, whole jackfruit, and fresh noodle varieties.

5XEN Market (Hmong Town) at 6300 N. 76th St. offers the most immersive cultural experience—walking through feels like visiting markets in Laos or Vietnam. Traditional Hmong and Thai clothing with silver coins, purple sticky rice, and a food court serving pho, curry, and bubble tea make this an educational destination for adventurous families.

Asian International Market at 3401 W. National Ave. earns devoted fans for its made-to-order papaya salad (som tam)—choose traditional Lao or Thai style with heat levels 1, 3, 5, or X. The Southeast Asian focus includes fantastic fresh produce. Hours: Daily 9am–7pm.

Additional notable markets include Mei Hua Market (11066 W. National Ave., West Allis—"the most affordable Asian market in the area"), Mo's Food Market (2404 W. Clybourn St.—best for hot pot ingredients and an entire wall of frozen dumplings), and Viet Hoa Supermarket (4900 W. North Ave.—strong all-arounder for East and Southeast Asian staples).

Hispanic and Latino markets

El Rey Family Markets has served Milwaukee for 40+ years as one of Wisconsin's largest Hispanic-owned companies. Multiple locations—including 916 S. César E. Chávez Dr., 5200 W. Oklahoma Ave., and 1320 W. Burnham St.—feature full-service grocery with vibrant panadería (bakery), carnicería (butcher), and hot deli with tamales, carnitas, and churros. Hours: Daily 7am–8pm. Free parking at all locations.

Monterrey Market at 3014 S. 13th St. brings fun energy with playful signage ("Life happens. Cerveza helps") alongside serious offerings: full bakery, butcher, fresh tortillas, and ready-to-eat items.

Cermak Fresh Market at 1541 Miller Park Way represents a Midwest chain known for exceptional produce at better prices than competitors, plus extensive Mexican foods and a quality meat counter.

Middle Eastern markets

Holy Land Grocery & Bakery at 2755 W. Ramsey Ave. is THE place for Palestinian food. Fresh bread bakes daily, and the rotisseries turn out exceptional chicken and beef/lamb shawarma. Tables available for dining in—the shawarma sandwiches, falafel, and kebabs make this a legitimate restaurant destination. The welcoming owner serves generous portions at prices "much cheaper than other places."

Rayan Market & Restaurant at 4563 S. 13th St. bakes fresh bread daily around 4pm and offers a small dining area with made-to-order dishes. Hours: Daily 9am–9pm.

Amanah Food Market at 1301 W. Edgerton Ave. combines an Arabic/Turkish specialty market with quality carry-out restaurant serving shawarma, kebabs, falafel, and baba ghanoush.

African markets

J&S African Center at 6029 N. Teutonia Ave. has grown from one storefront to four since 2009, dedicated to preserving African Cultural Heritage. Traditional African and Caribbean groceries, clothing, music, and fresh produce create an atmosphere that customers say "gives the feeling of being back home." Hours: Mon–Sat 9am–9pm; Sun 10am–7pm.

Adom African Market at 8084 N. 76th St. carries West African and Caribbean products—cassava, yams, plantains, spices—plus African clothing, beauty supplies, and a prepared food menu. "Family friendly always, a smile on our faces," the owners promise. Hours: Mon–Sat 8am–8pm; Sun 12pm–8pm.

European delis and specialty stores

Glorioso's Italian Market at 1011 E. Brady St. has anchored Milwaukee's Italian food scene since 1946. This four-generation family business makes fresh sausage using Nonno Felice's secret recipe and has won "Milwaukee's Best Deli" every year since 2009. The full-service deli serves made-to-order sandwiches, fresh pasta, and famous pizza. Appetito cooking classes across the street teach traditional Italian techniques. Hours: Mon–Thu 8am–8pm; Fri 8am–8pm; Sat 8am–6pm; Sun 8:30am–5pm.

Parthenon Foods at 8415 W. Greenfield Ave., West Allis imports from 45+ countries, having expanded beyond its 1970 Greek roots to stock Italian, German, Hungarian, Serbian, Croatian, and Turkish foods. The deli serves made-to-order gyros, and the fresh-made feta ranks among Milwaukee's best. Hours: Mon–Fri 9am–6pm; Sat 9am–5pm; Sun 9am–2pm.

A&J Polish Deli at 1215 W. Lincoln Ave. operates as a "hidden gem" in the historic Polish neighborhood, owned and staffed by Polish immigrants. Twenty varieties of Polish sausage, Polish candies (Ptasie Mleczko, Wedel chocolates), and imports from Poland fill the small shop—"feels like listening to Busia & Dziadzia."

Wioletta's Polish Market at 3955 S. Howell Ave. opened March 2024 and has quickly earned acclaim for Polish and German delicacies. The impressive deli case features sausages, traditional sauerkraut, pierogies, and ready-made soups. FOX6 Milwaukee called it "fun for the entire family."

Indian and South Asian groceries

Indian Groceries & Spices at 10701 W. North Ave., Wauwatosa celebrates 50+ years as Milwaukee's oldest and Wisconsin's largest Indian grocery. The 11,000-square-foot store stocks over 3,000 products including 150+ spice varieties. Monthly Indian vegetarian cooking classes make this educational for families. Owner Bharti offers her cookbook "Beyond the Curry with Bharti."

North Shore and Ozaukee County destinations

The communities north of Milwaukee offer exceptional specialty food shopping, from flagship grocery stores to artisan cheese shops and award-winning butchers.

Mequon Public Market

6300 W. Mequon Rd., Mequon, WI 53092 (Spur 16 development)
Phone: (262) 665-7787
Website: mequonpublicmarket.com
Hours: Sun–Thu 11am–8pm; Fri–Sat 11am–9pm

Once a firehouse and later used as a public works building, the Mequon Public Market is part of a larger historical narrative dating back to the 19th and 20th centuries. Spur 16 was named after the railroad spur on the east side of the development, which was the busiest of the spurs that served the village of Thiensville. The Milwaukee River Cannery was one of the largest shippers in the area. Today, the cannery building holds St. Paul Fish Company.

Current vendors (9 total): Screaming Tuna (home of Chef Jason Morimoto, winner of Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto's Sushi Master Season 2), Santorini Grill (Greek), Thai City Cuisine, Boca Rica, Aloha Poke, Mad Rush Pizza, Fenwick's Pub & Patio, Lakeside Cookie Co, and Purple Door Ice Cream.

Family-friendly highlights: The market features many seating options, both indoors and outdoors, making it a relaxed and laid-back place to spend a few hours enjoying good food and drinks. Upstairs mezzanine seating provides room for families to spread out. The Mequon Public Market also offers a variety of classes, many of them food-themed, on a weekly basis—including cooking and baking lessons for foods like sourdough bread, caramel sauce, and macarons. The diverse food options make it easy to satisfy everyone's tastes in one location.

Parking: Free lot at Spur 16 development

Cedarburg

This charming downtown offers exceptional specialty food shopping concentrated within walking distance.

Frannie's Market at W61 N486 Washington Ave. curates Wisconsin and Midwest artisan products in an intimate specialty foods store. Cut-to-order Wisconsin cheeses include Hook's 5-year cheddar and Uplands Pleasant Ridge Reserve. Owner Sarah hosts charcuterie-building classes, terrarium workshops, and collaboration dinners. Hours: Wed–Sat 11am–6pm; Sun 10am–2pm. Weekend visitors may find Matilda Bakehouse pastries.

The Cheese Wedge Uncorked at N56W6339 Center St. stocks nearly 1,000 cheese varieties from around the world, combined with a wine bar. Weekend build-it-yourself Bloody Mary bar adds fun for parents. Hours: Thu–Fri 10am–6pm; Sat–Sun 10am–4pm.

The Olive Sprig at Cedar Creek Settlement (N70 W6364 Bridge Rd.) offers tasting of gourmet olive oils from current harvests worldwide. Located in an 1864 woolen mill building, the shop also carries unique kitchen gadgets. Loyalty punch card: buy 12 bottles, get 1 free.

Amy's Candy Kitchen creates legendary caramel apples and handcrafted Belgian chocolates—a kid-approved destination.

Cedar Creek Settlement transforms the historic 1864 woolen mill into 20+ shops, restaurants, and Cedar Creek Winery. Holiday events include "Santa's Workshop" and children's crafts.

Cedarburg Historic Farmers' Market runs Fridays 9am–2pm (June–October) at Mill Street and Washington Avenue—fresh produce, local honey, Wisconsin cheeses, and handcrafted goods.

Whitefish Bay

Whitefish Bay Farmers Market operates Saturdays 8:30am–12:30pm (July–October) at 325 E. Silver Spring Drive.

Shorewood

North Shore Boulangerie at 4301 N. Oakland Ave. brings authentic French bakery technique to the North Shore. The owner/head baker trained in Paris and at the French Pastry School. Classic baguettes, croissants, quiches, and the North Shore Miche sourdough emerge from high-temperature ovens. Exclusive Milwaukee-area vendor for Cafés Richard Parisian coffee. Hours: Daily 7am–6pm; lunch 11am–2:30pm. Wheelchair accessible.

Shorewood Farmers Market runs Sundays along scenic Hubbard Park Parkway during summer months—food trucks mid-way through the vendor row.

Port Washington

Port Washington Farmers' Market won the 2023 Tour Ozaukee Community Choice Award for Best Farmers Market in Ozaukee County. The producer-only market overlooks Lake Michigan in beautiful downtown. Hours: Saturdays 8:30am–12:30pm (June–October). Year-round access continues at the Winter Farmers' Market at First Congregational Church (131 N. Webster St.), Saturdays 9am–1pm during winter months.

Dockside Deli at 218 E. Main St. serves award-winning sandwiches with Lake Michigan and marina views. The famous "Harbormaster" sandwich and scenic waterfront patio make this a family-friendly lunch destination.

Saukville

Blau's Saukville Meats at 501 E. Green Bay Ave. operates as a family-owned butcher since 1971, legendary for old-fashioned quality. Three natural block smokehouses produce everything on-site. Hand-cut steaks (specify your preferred thickness), Wisconsin-style bratwurst in countless varieties, famous bacon, and "beef bites" (customers call them "beef crack") draw devoted fans. Wild game processing available. Hours: Tue–Thu 8am–5:30pm; Fri 8am–6pm; Sat 8am–4pm. Competitive pricing with supermarkets.

Belgium (Northern Ozaukee County)

Cedar Valley Cheese Store at W3115 Jay Rd. connects directly to a working cheese factory—watch cheese being made, then buy squeaky-fresh cheese curds, Cajun curds, and affordable ice cream. Excellent educational stop for families.

Western suburbs and Lake Country

Wauwatosa

The Village Cheese Shop in Wauwatosa Village (1430 Underwood Ave.) occupies a historic former firehouse. Owner Sabina Magyar holds ACS, CCP certification from training in Budapest, Tuscany, and New York. The shop offers 80+ artisan cheeses (Wisconsin, Midwest, and European), a 300-bottle curated wine collection, and educational cheese classes. Cheese boards and artisan sandwiches available for immediate enjoyment.

Indian Groceries & Spices at 10701 W. North Ave. serves as Wisconsin's largest Indian grocery (see International Markets section above).

Outpost Natural Foods at 7000 W. State St. provides co-op quality with made-from-scratch bakery/deli.

Whole Foods Market at 11100 W. Burleigh St. offers extensive prepared foods, organic selection, and beer/wine bar. Hours: Daily 8am–9pm.

Brookfield

Farmer's Market TO GO at 17000 W. Capitol Dr. #2 provides a year-round indoor farmers market concept with 50+ local vendors who keep 100% of their profits. Fresh local produce, pasture-raised meats, Wisconsin cheese, artisan baked goods, and ready-to-go meals. Educational classes and meet-the-farmer events add programming. Hours: Mon–Fri 10am–6pm; Sat–Sun 10am–4pm.

Trader Joe's brings its unique private-label products and value pricing, with small carts for kids and sticker stations that delight young shoppers.

Fresh Thyme Market at 17300 W. Bluemound Rd. focuses on natural food at accessible prices.

Elm Grove

Kettle Range Meat Co. at 13402 Watertown Plank Rd. revives the neighborhood butcher tradition with grass-fed, pasture-raised meats from trusted local farms. The dramatic 35-50 day dry-aged beef hangs visibly in the dry-aging cabinet—educational for kids curious about the process. Heritage pork, pastured lamb, house-smoked bacon, and convenient heat-and-eat meals. Delivery available within 20 miles. Hours: Mon–Fri 10am–7pm; Sat–Sun 9am–5pm.

Great Harvest Bread Co. at 13404 Watertown Plank Rd. bakes fresh whole grain breads daily with Montana wheat.

Waukesha

Roberts' Specialty Meats at 135 E. Sunset Dr. serves as the hometown butcher offering custom-cut meats, specialty preparations like stuffed mushrooms and "ribs on a stick," plus worldwide cheese selection. Catering available.

Waukesha Farmers' Market ranks among Wisconsin's largest farmers markets for 25+ years. All products Wisconsin-grown/produced. Location: 125 W. St. Paul Avenue. Hours: Saturdays 8am–12pm (May–October).

Pewaukee

Good Harvest Market at 2205 Silvernail Rd. stands as Waukesha County's largest natural food store with on-site restaurant/public house (Hop Harvest & Vine). The 90% organic grocery includes all-organic produce, meat, and dairy, plus 1,000+ gluten-free options. Weekly trivia nights and seasonal concerts create community programming. Hours: Mon–Sat 8am–8pm; Sun 9am–7pm.

Menomonee Falls

Karl's Country Market at W156N5645 Pilgrim Rd. was founded in 1965 by German immigrant Karl Koslowski and now operates as employee-owned, celebrating 60 years of award-winning sausages. The shop produces 100+ homemade sausage varieties (Hungarian, Slovenian, weisswurst, bratwurst) that win state, national, and international competitions. Outdoor grill serves lunch Mon–Fri 11am–1:30pm. Hours: Daily 8am–7pm.

Mukwonago

The Elegant Farmer at 1545 Main St. operates as a fourth-generation family farm since 1946, famous for the "Apple Pie Baked in a Paper Bag®"—named "best apple pie in America" by Food Network, Wall Street Journal, and Gourmet magazine. Fall visits feature Autumn Harvest Fest with pick-your-own apples and pumpkins, hayrides, and corn mazes. The iconic "Smilin' Barn" delights kids year-round. Hours: Daily 9am–6pm.

Southern suburbs, Racine, and Kenosha

Kenosha highlights

Mars Cheese Castle at 2800 West Frontage Rd., Kenosha has welcomed travelers since 1947 with its castle-themed building and 80-foot sign visible from I-94. Over 700 cheese varieties include 10-year aged cheddar and chocolate cheese. Food Network declared their grilled cheese one of the top 8 sandwiches in the country. Kids love the interactive castle experience with suits of armor and thrones, draw bridge entrance, and novelty souvenirs. Restaurant on-site. Hours: Daily 9am–7pm. Large free parking lot.

Tenuta's Delicatessen & Liquors at 3203 52nd St., Kenosha celebrates 75 years in 2025 as a fourth-generation Italian market. Ranked #1 restaurant in Kenosha on TripAdvisor, the shop offers old-world deli meats, famous muffuletta sandwiches, signature pepper spread, and frozen homemade pasta. Kenosha's largest selection of specialty beer, wine, and spirits. Hours: Mon–Sat 10am–7pm; Sun 10am–5pm.

Lomeli Butcher Shop at 5525 18th Ave., Kenosha serves as a family-owned Hispanic butcher since 2004. Fresh meats (never frozen), specialty cuts for Mexican, Puerto Rican, and South American cuisines, homemade salsas, and ready-to-eat carnitas. Hosts annual Hispanic Heritage Festival. Wholesale prices available. Hours: Mon–Sat 8am–8pm.

Super Mercado Nuevo Centro at 5917 39th Ave. earns "best Hispanic market in town" status with authentic street-style tacos at $1 each—steak, al pastor, carnitas, barbacoa.

Kenosha Public Market operates year-round with 30+ vendors. Location: Historic Kemper Center, 6501 3rd Ave. Hours: Saturdays—Summer 9am–2pm; Winter 10am–2pm. SNAP/WIC benefits accepted with Market Match program doubling benefits up to $20.

Brat Stop at 12304 75th St. serves as the "Gateway to Wisconsin" since 1961, drawing 450,000+ annual visitors. World-famous bratwursts, Cheese Mart, and family entertainment including pool, video games, and kids' rides. Hours: Daily 8am–12am.

Racine County highlights

Borzynski's Farm & Floral Market at 11600 Washington Ave., Sturtevant offers "an All-American family market with a European flair." Spectacular bakery (fresh-baked pies, fudge), homegrown produce, and 3,000-square-foot gift shop. Fall Fun features corn maze, hayrides, and pumpkin patch. Make-your-own caramel apples add interactive appeal. Hours: Mon–Sat 9am–6pm; Sun 10am–5pm.

Brossman's Meat Market at 6900 State Rd. 31, Racine has served families for over 47 years with premium meats, full-service catering, and an on-site grill serving burgers and fries.

Milaeger's Great Lakes Farmers Market at 4838 Douglas Ave., Racine operates year-round inside a climate-controlled greenhouse with 40+ vendors. Hours: Sundays 10am–2pm (except New Year's, Easter, Christmas weekends).

Midwest Market @ 2210 at 2210 Rapids Dr., Racine functions as a unique indoor mini-mall with 45+ stores including food vendors, bubble tea, ice cream, and a vintage video rental store with mini theater—a quirky family adventure. Hours: Fri 4pm–8pm; Sat–Sun 10am–5pm.

Greendale

Old World Deli at 7630 W. Grange Ave. operates as a family-owned Polish deli since 2003. Bilingual staff (English/Polish) serves fresh Polish sausages (delivered Fridays), pierogies, imported European meats and cheeses, and European breads (Tuesdays and Fridays). Hot ham and rolls on Sundays. Hours: Tue–Thu 10am–6pm; Fri 10am–6pm; Sat 9am–5pm; Sun 9am–2pm.

Oak Creek

Woodman's Food Market at 8131 S. Howell Ave. sprawls across 250,000 square feet of grocery heaven—100% employee-owned with massive selection at budget prices. The enormous liquor department alone justifies a visit. Hours: 24/7.

Specialty markets, butcher shops, and cheese destinations

Milwaukee's historic butcher row

Usinger's Famous Sausage at 1030 N. Old World Third St. has produced German-style sausages since 1880—145 years of Milwaukee history. Fourth-generation family ownership maintains turn-of-the-century retail shop architecture. Over 70 sausage varieties follow traditional 19th-century recipes. Famous gift boxes available only at the retail location. Located on the Milwaukee Riverwalk in the Old World Third Street Historic District. Hours: Mon–Sat 9am–5pm.

Wisconsin Cheese Mart at 1048 N. Old World Third St. (neighbor to Usinger's) stocks 150+ Wisconsin cheese varieties from local creameries in a family-owned shop celebrating 80+ years. Gift baskets ship nationwide.

Premium butchers

Bavette La Boucherie at 217 N. Broadway (Historic Third Ward) combines woman-owned butcher shop with full-service restaurant. Owner Karen Bell brings 20+ years culinary experience from Chicago, San Francisco, Paris, Madrid, and Caracas. Whole-animal butchery philosophy sources pasture-raised animals from Wisconsin farms. The retail Bavette Provisions section sells Wisconsin cheeses, local charcuterie, artisanal jams, and housewares. Restaurant serves signature beef fat fries, charcuterie boards, and seasonal dishes. Hours: Tue–Thu 11am–9pm; Fri–Sat 11am–10pm; Mon/Sun 11am–4pm. OpenTable rating: 4.9 stars.

Bunzel's Meat Market at 9015 W. Burleigh St. maintains four generations of old-fashioned Milwaukee butchery with 5-star ratings, all-natural beef, and award-winning beef jerky.

Ray's Butcher Shoppe in Greenfield has served the community since 1977 with hand-cut steaks, in-house smoked sausages, famous beef jerky (4 varieties), and imported European breads. Hours: Mon–Thu 7:30am–7pm; Fri 7:30am–7:30pm; Sat 7:30am–5:30pm; Sun 7:30am–4pm.

Spice destinations

The Spice House at Milwaukee Public Market carries on a 60+ year Milwaukee tradition (founded 1957 by Bill Sr. and Ruth Penzey). Weekly small-batch grinding ensures freshness. Custom blends mixed in-house serve Michelin-star chefs and home cooks alike.

Penzeys Spices at 638 N. Water St. (downtown) plus Brookfield and Greenfield locations offers extensive selection from the Wauwatosa-headquartered company founded by Bill Penzey Jr. (son of Spice House founders). Sensory sampling experience.

The Spice & Tea Exchange of Mequon at 1412 W. Mequon Rd. creates custom blends for any dietary need or allergy. Strong presence at Cedarburg, Grafton, and West Bend farmers markets.

Olive oil and specialty boutiques

Oro di Oliva at Milwaukee Public Market (plus Brookfield location) has served Milwaukee for over a decade with 70+ world-class olive oils and balsamic vinegars poured from kegs for tasting and custom blending. Interactive experience for all ages.

Oilerie Brookfield at 17135-H W. Bluemound Rd. operates as the country's oldest established olive oil bar and largest single-store olive oil retailer. Taste before you buy from the full line of extra virgin olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars.

Planning your family food market adventures

Best destinations by family priority

For picky eaters needing variety: 3rd Street Market Hall and Milwaukee Public Market offer 20+ vendor options under one roof.

For active kids: 3rd Street Market Hall (free games, Topgolf), Zócalo Food Park (outdoor space, bocce), Brat Stop (pool, video games, kids' rides).

For cultural education: Sherman Phoenix (Black-owned businesses), 5XEN Market/Hmong Town (Southeast Asian immersion), Holy Land Grocery (Palestinian food culture), Glorioso's (Italian heritage since 1946).

For fall family outings: The Elegant Farmer (apple picking, corn maze), Borzynski's Farm & Floral Market (fall fun activities), Cedarburg farmers markets.

For budget-conscious families: El Rey Markets, Super Mercado Nuevo Centro ($1 tacos), Woodman's, Asian International Market.

For cheese lovers: Mars Cheese Castle (interactive castle), The Cheese Wedge Uncorked (1,000 varieties), West Allis Cheese & Sausage, Cedar Valley Cheese Store (watch cheese being made).

Year-round indoor options

When Wisconsin winters limit outdoor farmers markets, these destinations keep families exploring:

• Farmer's Market TO GO (Brookfield)—year-round indoor farmers market

• Milaeger's Great Lakes Farmers Market (Racine)—climate-controlled greenhouse

• Kenosha Public Market (winter location at Kemper Center)

• Port Washington Winter Farmers' Market

• All specialty grocery stores, butcher shops, and ethnic markets listed above

Geographic trip planning

North Shore day: Start at Sendik's Mequon or Outpost Mequon, drive to Cedarburg for Frannie's Market, The Cheese Wedge, and The Olive Sprig, finish with cheese curds at Cedar Valley Cheese Store in Belgium.

South of I-94 adventure: Begin at Mars Cheese Castle, visit Tenuta's for Italian provisions, explore Borzynski's Farm Market, return via Woodman's for bulk shopping.

International food crawl: Pacific Produce (Asian) → El Rey (Hispanic) → Holy Land Grocery (Middle Eastern) → Parthenon Foods (European)—all accessible within Milwaukee's south side.

Lake Country outing: The Elegant Farmer (Mukwonago) for apple pie, Good Harvest Market (Pewaukee) for organic lunch, Karl's Country Market (Menomonee Falls) for award-winning sausages.

Conclusion

Milwaukee's food hall and market scene reflects the region's proud immigrant heritage, farm-to-table ethos, and genuine enthusiasm for quality food. From the nationally ranked 3rd Street Market Hall to the quiet excellence of neighborhood butchers like Blau's Saukville Meats, these destinations reward families willing to explore beyond big-box grocery stores.

The practical takeaway: bookmark this guide and commit to visiting one new market each month. Start with the iconic destinations—Milwaukee Public Market, Mars Cheese Castle, Glorioso's—then venture into authentic ethnic grocers where $20 buys extraordinary ingredients and cultural education. Wisconsin's food traditions run deep, and introducing children to squeaky-fresh cheese curds, handmade Polish sausage, and made-to-order papaya salad creates lasting food memories.

Note: Hours, vendor lineups, and details change seasonally. Call ahead or check websites before visiting, especially for farmers markets and smaller specialty shops. Most venues welcome families warmly and staff can recommend kid-friendly options.