Milwaukee's Best Garlic Bread: 60+ Amazing Spots

Nothing brings a family together quite like tearing into a basket of hot, buttery garlic bread before a big Italian meal. The greater Milwaukee area has quietly become a garlic bread paradise, with family-owned restaurants perfecting their recipes for generations. From the legendary double-dipped loaves at Barbiere's that have ruined all other garlic bread for thousands of Wisconsinites, to cheesy breadsticks at neighborhood pizzerias and artisan focaccia at upscale bistros, this seven-county region delivers every style imaginable. Whether you're planning a Friday pizza night in Kenosha, a lakefront dinner in Port Washington, or searching for that perfect pre-Bucks-game meal downtown, this comprehensive guide will help your family discover the most delicious garlic bread across the entire Milwaukee metropolitan area.

Milwaukee

Milwaukee's garlic bread scene starts with one name that locals speak in reverent tones: Barbiere's Italian Inn. Located at 5844 W. Bluemound Road (with a second location at 1021 Milwaukee Avenue in South Milwaukee), this family institution has been serving what many consider Wisconsin's finest garlic bread since 1963. Their famous "double-dipped" or "double butter" garlic bread features large, thick slices dripping with pure garlic butter—crunchy on the outside, impossibly soft inside. Reviewers consistently warn that once you try Barbiere's, all other garlic bread is ruined forever. The experience here feels like stepping into an Italian grandmother's kitchen, with dinners including minestrone soup, antipasto salad, and spumoni ice cream alongside that legendary bread. Plan for a wait, but trust that it's worth every minute. Prices run in the moderate range, with pizzas between $15-25 and complete dinners that include all the fixings.

Zaffiro's Pizza & Bar at 1724 N. Farwell Avenue represents Milwaukee's thin-crust pizza royalty, and their garlic bread deserves equal recognition. Since 1954, five generations of families have gathered around their checkered tablecloths for cracker-thin, tavern-cut pizza paired with traditional garlic bread or cheese bread topped with melted mozzarella. At just $1-2 per slice for garlic bread, this is an affordable family outing, and the outdoor seating makes summer visits especially pleasant. Open Monday through Saturday from 11am until late evening, Zaffiro's casual atmosphere welcomes families of all ages.

The Calderone Club at 842 N. Old World Third Street carries forward the original 1945 Caradaro Club pizza recipe—considered the pioneer of Milwaukee's beloved thin-crust style. Their toasted garlic and herb bread with melted mozzarella makes an ideal appetizer, while fresh Italian bread accompanies every entrée. Just steps from the Deer District, this is the perfect pre-game spot for families heading to Fiserv Forum. Expect moderate prices with garlic bread appetizers around $8 and entrées ranging from $17-35.

On the city's South Side, Transfer Pizzeria Café at 101 W. Mitchell Street offers warm Italian bread with garlic butter, oregano, and basil, topped with Italian parsley and Parmesan cheese and served with marinara for dipping. They also make a cheesy version with sliced mozzarella. What truly sets Transfer apart is their extensive gluten-free menu—the owner's wife has celiac disease, so families dealing with dietary restrictions can enjoy garlic bread here with confidence. The vibrant atmosphere includes live jazz on Tuesdays and Thursdays, making this a wonderful option for a family cultural outing. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 11am to 9pm, with garlic bread priced around $6-8.

Balistreri's Bluemound Inn at 6501 W. Bluemound Road has anchored Milwaukee's culinary scene since 1968 with fresh Italian bread served alongside every pasta and steak entrée. Their bruschetta—garlic bread topped with tomato, onion, garlic, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese—offers an elevated take on the classic. The spacious outdoor patio welcomes families in summer, and their shuttle service to Milwaukee sporting events makes this a convenient choice for game days. Kids' menus are available, and prices range from $16-24 for pasta to $35-55 for steaks. Open daily except Tuesday from 11am until late evening.

In nearby Wauwatosa, Balistreri's Italian-American Ristorante at 812 N. 68th Street provides a cozier experience with nostalgic 1980s mob movie décor. Locals say they stay for the garlic bread "nearly as much as for the pizza," and the intimate, convivial atmosphere makes this perfect for family celebrations. Their improbably thin-crust pizza pairs beautifully with that famous bread. Expect moderate prices with pizzas from $12-22.

Ned's Pizza on the South Side has served generations of Milwaukee families with cheesy garlic bread that hits all the right notes—melty, slightly greasy, exactly as garlic bread should be. Their lunch special including personal pizza, garlic bread, and a drink for just $8.75 makes this one of the best family values in the city. The sweet signature sauce pairs perfectly with their cracker-thin crust pizza.

For a more upscale experience, Carnevor Steakhouse Moderne at 718 N. Milwaukee Street offers artisan bread service with herbed garlic butter, crostini with bone marrow, and roasted garlic accompaniments. This is Milwaukee's premier steakhouse—better suited for special occasions than casual family dinners—but the USDA Prime steaks with herbed garlic butter create unforgettable memories. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 5pm, with steaks ranging from $45 to over $180.

In the Bay View neighborhood, Tenuta's Italian Restaurant at 2995 S. Clement Avenue serves garlic bread with marinara dipping sauce alongside thick, crisp cracker-style thin crust pizzas. Family recipes from southern Italy have anchored this cozy spot since 1961, earning it "Best Italian Restaurant" honors since 2015. The neighborhood charm makes this ideal for families seeking an intimate dinner experience. Reservations recommended; prices run moderate for pizza ($14-22) and pasta ($15-20).

Five O'Clock Steakhouse at 2416 W. State Street delivers the classic Wisconsin supper club experience with sourdough bread served alongside honey, butter, and a traditional relish tray. Named "One of America's Best Steakhouses" by Rachel Ray, this Milwaukee landmark since 1946 offers family-owned warmth with red leather booths and tableside salad service. Live music in the Alley Cat Lounge upstairs adds entertainment value. Open Wednesday through Saturday from 5pm, with steaks ranging from $40-80.

Additional Milwaukee gems include Capri di Nuovo at 8340 W. Beloit Road, a community staple since 1972 known for fantastic housemade garlic bread and generous pasta portions with multiple pizza styles available. Marsel's Italian Restaurant in the Greenfield area offers freshly baked garlic bread alongside their signature huge calzones covered in garlic butter—an exceptional value from this small family-owned business operating since 2011. And Johnny Manhattan's at 7330 W. State Street in Wauwatosa features the signature "Nancy Garlic Bread" stuffed with cheese, served in a classy supper club atmosphere with spacious booths perfect for family gatherings.

North Shore

Lasagna topped with melted cheese, served with crispy garlic bread at The Bay

The Milwaukee North Shore communities of Shorewood, Whitefish Bay, Fox Point, and Glendale deliver sophisticated dining options without sacrificing family-friendly warmth. Calderone Club Fox Point at 8001 N. Port Washington Road carries the same legendary 1947 pizza recipe as its downtown sibling, with traditional garlic bread at $4.50 and cheesy garlic bread with melted mozzarella for $5.95. The intimate setting means staff remembers regular guests' preferences, creating that special neighborhood restaurant feeling. Open Tuesday through Sunday starting at 4pm, with reservations recommended and limited to 90 minutes per table during busy periods.

Zaffiro's Pizzeria at the Marcus North Shore Cinema (11700 N. Port Washington Road, Mequon) offers a unique dinner-and-movie combination that families love. Their garlic bread—three slices of rustic Italian bread with perfectly balanced garlic butter—runs $6, while cheese bread with mozzarella costs $8. Best of all, their Big Z pizza deals include unlimited garlic bread. Reviews praise the bread as "soaked but not saturated in garlic butter." Open daily with extended hours on weekends.

In Whitefish Bay, Upper Crust Pizza & Hoagies at 249 E. Hampton Road has served North Shore families since the 1970s. Their traditional garlic bread and popular pizza bread—topped with sauce, mozzarella, and choice of two toppings—pair perfectly with their signature tangy sauce. Look for $3-off coupons in local mailers for even better value. They deliver throughout Whitefish Bay, Fox Point, and Shorewood, making busy family nights easier.

The Bay Restaurant at 601 E. Silver Spring Drive in Whitefish Bay offers garlic bread served with their hearty pasta dishes, particularly the cavatappi pasta with Italian sausage. Chef Erik Hansen's eclectic American fare includes live jazz events that even families can enjoy. Public parking behind the restaurant makes arrival convenient. Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.

Near the Shorewood border, Lisa's Pizzeria at 2961 N. Oakland Avenue has built a devoted following for garlic bread priced at just $4. Reviewers share memories spanning decades: "Can't get enough of the garlic bread! Thanks for so many years of great memories." Their award-winning fried eggplant pairs beautifully with that bread, and the cocktail lounge means parents can enjoy a glass of wine while kids dig into tavern-style or Detroit-style pizza. Open daily with slightly longer hours on weekends.

At Bayshore, Backlot Pizza + Kitchen (5800 N. Bayshore Drive, Glendale) brings Hollywood-themed atmosphere alongside Detroit-style pizza with thick, fluffy crust and crispy caramelized edges. Connected to ACX Cinemas, this makes an excellent dinner-and-movie destination. Happy Hour daily from 3-6pm offers discounted pizzas and drinks, perfect for early family dinners.

Falbo Bros. Pizza at 2213 E. Capitol Drive in Shorewood creates a unique style blending New York thin crust and Chicago deep dish inspirations. All dough is hand-rolled fresh every few hours with sauce made from scratch daily. Reviews call it "the BEST pizza I've had while in Shorewood," and the generous cheese and toppings extend to their garlic bread accompaniment.

Waukesha County

Waukesha County's sprawling communities from Brookfield to Oconomowoc hide some of the region's most beloved garlic bread destinations. Mia's at 800 Clinton Street in Waukesha sets the standard with "Mia's Famous Garlic Bread"—100% pure Wisconsin butter soaked into bread until it's dripping, then roasted with garlic and served by the loaf. Add cheese for $2.75 or Italian seasoning for extra flavor. This garlic bread even stars in their French Onion Soup, topped with the bread and Gruyère cheese. Prices remain reasonable with garlic bread at $3.50 and entrées from $14-28. Open Monday through Sunday from 4pm.

Mama Mia's Italian Cuisine at 8533 West Greenfield Avenue in West Allis bills their garlic bread as "the world's best"—a bold claim they've backed up since 1954. Thick, buttery slices with a distinctive flavor have built a legendary reputation over 70 years of family ownership. Original recipes passed down for generations ensure consistency that keeps families returning decade after decade. Open daily except Wednesday, with lunch and dinner service.

Michael's Italian Restaurant at 1400 S Grand Avenue in Waukesha has operated since 1955, making it a true local institution. Their traditional Italian bread with garlic and herb seasoning comes plain at $4.55 or with cheese at $6.80—the cheesy version described as "a cross between garlic bread and pizza." Hot Italian bread comes with salads and pasta dishes. The large family restaurant offers kids' menus and generous portions at moderate prices. Open daily from 3:30pm.

The Red Mill Inn & Pizza at 1005 South Elm Grove Road in Brookfield occupies a historic building that predates Brookfield's suburban development. Their homemade garlic bread earns consistent praise as "the best garlic bread anywhere" on TripAdvisor. Combined with house-made dough pizzas and legendary Friday Fish Fry, this neighborhood gem delivers tremendous value. Open Tuesday through Sunday with varying hours.

In downtown Waukesha, Jimmy's Grotto at 314 E. Main Street has delighted families since 1946. Their garlic cheese bread—crispy exterior, soft center, thick layer of mozzarella—accompanies spaghetti dinners with notably pronounced garlic flavor. Don't miss their trademarked "Ponza Rotta" (deep-fried calzone), hand-cut onion rings, and budget-friendly pricing. Open daily from 11am with extended weekend hours.

Angelina's Ristorante at 621 Milwaukee Street in Delafield offers warm Italian bread with dipping oil served with all entrées, plus rustic grilled bread with garlic for bruschetta. Family recipes in a cozy atmosphere with Italian décor and family photos create the feeling of dining in someone's home. Kids' menu available, outdoor seating in season, and excellent Friday Fish Fry. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 4pm with entrées from $14.95-$30+.

Johnny Manhattan's at 2890 Hubertus Road in Richfield near Menomonee Falls features "Nancy's Garlic Bread Stuffed with Cheese"—a signature appetizer that reviews consistently call "the best garlic bread ever." This classy supper club combines Italian offerings with USDA Prime steaks, and private dining rooms (Wine Room, Giovanni Room, Michael Room) accommodate family gatherings. Higher price point ($31-50) but ideal for special occasions. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 4pm.

Pepino's Pizza & Ristorante at N84W15841 Appleton Avenue in Menomonee Falls has served families since 1990 with "Cheers"-like atmosphere where locals are greeted by name. Customers reminisce about ordering "pizza and garlic bread on Sundays" since childhood. Enormous portions at incredible value make this a family budget winner, and their lunch buffet is legendary.

For a modern twist, La Tavola Italiana at 161 Wisconsin Avenue in Pewaukee offers focaccia-style breads alongside their Neapolitan-style pinsa—Roman pizza with light, airy crust. Beautiful Pewaukee Lake views make this ideal for family celebrations. Open Monday through Saturday from 4pm.

Bella Gusto at 29 S Main Street in Oconomowoc combines Italian deli, pizzeria, and wine market with brick oven pizzas and fresh artisan bread. Reviews note "the garlic bread is AMAZING," and the multi-purpose establishment works perfectly for grab-and-go lake trips or leisurely sit-down dining.

Additional Waukesha County destinations include Armeli's Restaurant & Pizzeria at 16201 W National Avenue in New Berlin, where traditional home-style garlic bread accompanies classic Italian-American dishes and Wisconsin Friday Fish Fry. Rosati's Pizza locations in Menomonee Falls and Brookfield offer both traditional garlic bread and cheese breadsticks with garlic butter and mozzarella served with marinara—their pasta dishes including spaghetti and lasagna come with garlic bread, and catering packages include multiple pieces for larger gatherings.

Ozaukee County

Ozaukee County's picturesque communities along Lake Michigan harbor some exceptional garlic bread destinations. Tomaso's at W63N688 Washington Avenue in downtown Cedarburg earns the top spot with garlic bread that multiple reviewers call "the best I've ever had." Their unique preparation tops the garlic loaf with pizza sauce and pizza cheese, available on whole wheat or regular bread with butter, Parmesan, and mozzarella. They also offer bruschetta with olive oil, red onions, garlic, tomato, basil, and balsamic glaze. A Cedarburg secret since 1976, Tomaso's also serves award-winning thin crust pizza (voted #1 in Ozaukee County and by Milwaukee Magazine) alongside deep dish Chicago-style options. Budget-friendly prices and casual seat-yourself atmosphere make this perfect for families, though small table spaces may challenge those with strollers. Open for dinner after 4pm.

The Pasta Shoppe at 323 N Franklin Street in Port Washington brings traditional Italian garlic bread with family recipes straight from Sicily. The quaint downtown location sits within walking distance of Lake Michigan, creating a perfect family outing. Kids Eat Free on Mondays provides excellent value, while $12 bottles of wine on Thursdays appeal to parents. Open Monday and Wednesday through Sunday from 4:30pm, with slightly earlier Sunday closing.

John's Tavern & Pizza in Port Washington has operated as a family business since 1976. Reviews specifically praise their garlic bread as "wonderful," particularly alongside their legendary broasted chicken. Homemade pizzas use fresh grated local cheese, fresh cut vegetables, and local meats. Quality food at reasonable prices with plenty of room for families makes this a community favorite.

Ferrante's Restaurant at 10404 N Port Washington Road in Mequon has served North Shore patrons for over 44 years with family recipes refined over generations. Their cheese garlic bread earns high praise—"we all wished we had thought to order it"—and appears in their weekly Take Home Meal Deals that feed families of 4-5. Wheelchair accessible throughout, kids' menu available, and relaxed atmosphere welcome families of all configurations. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 4:30pm.

Messina Restaurant in Saukville was voted one of Milwaukee area's Top New Restaurants by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel restaurant critic. Family-owned by the Raffaele family, Messina serves breadsticks with cinnamon butter and Italian bread with dinners. The private dining room accommodates larger family gatherings. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 4pm for dinner, with carryout and delivery available.

Washington County

Washington County's communities offer wonderful family dining with garlic bread that rivals anywhere in the region. Brama's Pizzeria at N112W16700 Mequon Road in Germantown stands out with "Brama's Traditional Garlic Bread" and "Garlic Bread with Cheese"—both customer favorites. One enthusiastic reviewer declares this place has "the best pizza and garlic bread in the country." The chef brings 45+ years of experience from the finest restaurants, and their motto—"It's All In The Sauce"—proves accurate. Room rental available for parties, catering/party pans for events, and gluten-free options make this a versatile family choice. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 11am (closed Monday).

Maricio's in Barton at 1726 Barton Avenue in West Bend offers Italian bread with dinners and uses a whipped garlic base in specialty pizzas. This cozy Italian American restaurant specializes in one-of-a-kind pizza and deep dish options. Outdoor seating available, good for groups and kids, with reservations accepted. Excellent health score (97/100) provides peace of mind for families. Open Wednesday through Sunday with varying hours.

Michaleno's Pizzeria operates multiple locations across Washington and Ozaukee Counties in West Bend, Saukville, and Kewaskum. Family owned by Mike and Debbie Herbert along with their four sons, this true family business delivers traditional Italian garlic bread and breadsticks with dinners. Reviews describe it as "an amazing family run business" with "absolutely AMAZING" food. Budget-friendly prices and welcoming atmosphere make all locations family favorites.

Johnny Manhattan's Germantown location brings the same classy-but-casual steakhouse experience with Italian-style garlic bread accompanying their famous steaks, chops, pizza, and ribs. Known as a "hidden gem" alternative to crowded Milwaukee steak dining, the beautiful Kettle Moraine setting adds ambiance for special family celebrations. Open since 1999 with upscale pricing.

Marko's Pizza at W156 N9664 Pilgrim Road in Germantown has maintained family ownership for 60 years, building their reputation on homemade pizza and garlic bread. The full bar offers cocktails, wine, and beer for parents while pizza and Italian dinners appeal to all ages. Open Sunday through Thursday from 4pm until 8:30pm, with slightly later Friday and Saturday hours, plus lunch Wednesday through Friday from 11am to 2pm.

Racine County

Racine County's Italian heritage runs deep, and the garlic bread reflects generations of family recipes. Wells Brothers Restaurant at 2148 Mead Street (technically Mount Pleasant) has served traditional Italian garlic bread with their "Bottomless Bowl" specials since 1921—over a century of family recipes. Their thin-crust pizza was ranked #6 best thin-crust in the country and #1 in Wisconsin, and the garlic bread complements it perfectly. Old-school diner atmosphere with booth seating welcomes families, though parties of 14 or more need reservations. Open Tuesday through Saturday with slightly longer Friday and Saturday hours.

Salute Italian Restaurant at 314 Main Street in downtown Racine has earned "Best Italian Restaurant in Racine" honors since opening in 1992. Traditional butter/garlic Italian bread arrives warm as an appetizer and with entrées. Family-owned for over 30 years with authentic recipes, gluten-free options, and catering for events. The full bar includes Sambuca for an authentic Italian finish.

Infusino's Pizzeria & Restaurant at 3225 Rapids Drive (with additional locations including 3301 Washington Avenue) has perfected Italian cuisine since 1971. Their "Tomato Bread"—three slices topped with sauce, tomatoes, mozzarella, garlic, and oregano, then broiled—costs just $4.95. But their signature offering is Italian bread with "Famous Garlic Oil Dip." The Infusino's Sampler includes chicken wings, ribs, potato skins, cheese sticks, AND garlic bread for sharing. Banquet room accommodates up to 65 people, outdoor patio seating available. Open daily from 11am to 9pm.

DeRango's "The Pizza King" operates multiple Racine locations including 3114 Washington Avenue and the Pizza King & Steakhouse at 4621 6 Mile Road. Serving Racine since 1953, they've been voted #1 pizza multiple times. Traditional garlic bread runs $3.95, cheese garlic bread the same, and pizza bread $5.45. Their sandwiches baked on garlic bread (Italian beef, meatballs, chicken) offer hearty family meals. Soft-serve custard delights kids, and family carryout packages include 2 sheet pizzas, 40 wings, 3 sodas, and 2 dessert cakes. Open daily from 7am for breakfast through dinner.

Mike & Angelo's Italian Restaurant at 6214 Washington Avenue has earned "Racine's Best Thin Crust Pizza" honors with traditional garlic bread as appetizer or with meals. The banquet room accommodates parties up to 200 people, making this ideal for family reunions and celebrations. Cozy atmosphere, full-service bar with good wine selection, ample parking. Open Monday through Sunday from 4pm.

In Burlington, Napoli Restaurant and Pizzeria at 132 N Pine Street has served traditional Sicilian cuisine with recipes from four generations since 1989. Traditional Italian bread served warm with meals, plus kids' pizza-making parties create memorable family experiences. Private party room and catering services available. Open Monday and Wednesday through Sunday (closed Tuesday).

Also in Burlington, Zumpano's Ristorante & Pizzeria features fresh baked bread and breadsticks with all meals, including a dozen breadsticks with their Family Feast (serves 6-8). Family-owned with recipes from Italy, everything made from scratch. Their meatball appetizer and chicken parmesan earn special praise. Holiday catering packages available.

For upscale family occasions, Marguerite inside Hotel Verdant at 500 Main Street in downtown Racine offers hearth-fired artisan focaccia-style bread alongside modern Italian cuisine. Hearth-fired signature pizzas feature artisanal ingredients like Calabrian chiles and roasted squash. Weekend brunch service, cozy nook seating. Open daily for lunch and dinner with Saturday and Sunday brunch from 9am to 2pm.

Additional Racine County mentions include Bernie's Hometown Pizzeria at 1238 Lathrop Avenue for budget-friendly traditional garlic bread in a sports bar atmosphere, The Summit Restaurant & Cocktails at 6825 Washington Avenue in Mount Pleasant for supper club bread service with steaks and seafood, Corner House on the Lake (open since 1945, voted best steakhouse), and Sebastian's in Caledonia celebrating 25 years of upscale bread service with seasonal menus.

Kenosha County

Kenosha County's vibrant Italian-American community has created some of the region's most beloved garlic bread destinations. Phoenix Family Restaurant at 12440 75th Street delivers what multiple reviewers call "the best garlic bread in the city." Traditional butter and garlic toast accompanies their home-cooked meals at surprisingly affordable prices—this may be the best family budget option in the entire seven-county region. Cozy family-style atmosphere with large portions of fried chicken (also "the best"), homemade soups, and classic American comfort food. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Infusino's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria at 6800 39th Avenue serves warm bread baskets with their famous olive oil dip (butter available on request), plus Pizza Stix with melted garlic butter and marinara for $10. All dine-in dinners include soup or salad with that famous bread basket. The children's menu offers mostaccioli or spaghetti with meatball for $9, chicken strips the same. Their Italian Combo arrives in a "ridiculously huge aluminum pan"—perfect for sharing with the whole family. Indoor/outdoor patio seating, delivery available. Open Monday through Sunday from 4pm.

Villa D' Carlo at 5140 6th Avenue has been a Kenosha waterfront landmark for over 65 years. Traditional Italian bread accompanies meals, with fresh garlic available as a pizza topping on "Carl's Famous Pizza" made in stone-bottomed ovens. The rich history makes this perfect for multi-generational family outings, with banquet facilities available for larger gatherings. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 4pm (closed Monday).

DeRango's "The Pizza King" at 2135 31st Street has served Kenosha for over 45 years with Italian bread accompanying all pasta dinners complete with soup or salad and Romano cheese. The Birthday Club, games for all ages, and family carryout packages (2 sheet pizzas, 40 wings, 3 sodas, 2 dessert cakes) make this a family celebration destination. Full bar with seasonal patio. Open daily with delivery specials.

Stella's Casa Capri at 2129 Birch Road has been a Kenosha mainstay for over 65 years with traditional Italian bread and bruschetta-style appetizers accompanying authentic Italian dinners. Banquet menus accommodate family gatherings, extensive menu covers pasta, steaks, chicken, veal, and seafood. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 4pm.

The Italian American Supper Club at 2217 52nd Street holds the distinction of being Kenosha's most historic Italian dining destination, established in 1923 in a building constructed in 1926. Italian bread with dinners and fresh garlic pizza toppings maintain tradition, while the children's menu and old-world charm make this perfect for family celebrations. Voted "Kenosha's Best Banquet Hall in 2025," their Friday Fish Fry tradition and Mojo potatoes (a local specialty) round out the experience. Open Wednesday through Saturday from 4pm.

The legendary HobNob Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge at 277 Sheridan Road (technically in Racine but serving the Kenosha area) delivers the quintessential Wisconsin supper club experience. Their cheesy garlic bread—crispy, chewy, loaded with cheese—is featured in food tourism articles as a must-try. All dinners come with soup, salad, choice of potatoes, and warm dinner rolls. The leisurely dining pace, white tablecloth service with casual atmosphere, famous boozy ice cream desserts, and traditional relish tray service create memories that families treasure. Higher price point but worth every penny for special occasions.

Ruffolo's Special Pizza II at 3617 Roosevelt Road has been family-owned since 1989 by the Ruffolo family, now with five children involved in the business. Pizza dough breadsticks, garlic bread, and Italian bread with pasta dishes come from hand-tossed pizzas made with the freshest ingredients. True Italian family dining atmosphere perfect for kids who love pizza.

Tenuta's Italian Restaurant at 3203 52nd Street (part of the legendary Tenuta's family operating since 1950) serves oven-baked garlic bread with all family-style pasta dishes and fresh baked Italian bread with sandwiches. Family-style portions, party pizzas, and connection to famous Tenuta's Delicatessen for taking home specialty items make this a complete Italian family experience.

Birchwood Grill at 7515 125th Avenue serves homemade garlic bread with all salads, plus warm homemade bread with their famous buffet featuring "more variety than I've ever seen anywhere in the world." Sunday brunch runs $13.95 for the breakfast buffet (add $4 for dinner items). Buffet-style dining works perfectly for families with varying tastes and appetites.

Additional Kenosha County options include Due Laghi Pizzeria at 405 N Lake Avenue in Twin Lakes for pizza and calzones in western Kenosha County, Luisa's Pizza serving the Salem/Wheatland area (known as "Best West of the I"), and Tuscany Bistro Bar & Grill in downtown Kenosha featuring gourmet Margherita pizza with fresh garlic and Italian spices.

Your Family Garlic Bread Adventure Awaits

The greater Milwaukee area offers an embarrassment of garlic bread riches spanning seven counties, over a hundred years of tradition, and countless family recipes passed down through generations. Whether your family craves the legendary butter-dipped loaves at Barbiere's, the cheese-stuffed signature bread at Johnny Manhattan's, or the artisan focaccia at Marguerite, this region delivers every style imaginable.

For budget-conscious families, destinations like Phoenix Family Restaurant in Kenosha, Ned's Pizza in Milwaukee, Jimmy's Grotto in Waukesha, and Tomaso's in Cedarburg offer exceptional garlic bread at friendly prices. When celebration calls for something special, Carnevor, Five O'Clock Steakhouse, HobNob, and Johnny Manhattan's elevate the bread basket to an art form.

Families with dietary restrictions will find welcoming options at Transfer Pizzeria (extensive gluten-free menu), Trouble and Sons (vegan and gluten-free pizzas with garlic bread), and Brama's Pizzeria (gluten-free options). And for those perfect dinner-and-movie nights, Zaffiro's North Shore at Marcus Cinema and Backlot Pizza at Bayshore combine entertainment with excellent garlic bread.

The only question remaining is which direction your family will drive this weekend to discover your new favorite. Start with the legends—Barbiere's, Mia's, Tomaso's—and then explore outward. Each community guards its own garlic bread secrets, and uncovering them makes for the perfect Wisconsin family adventure.