Best Poutine in Greater Milwaukee: Your Ultimate Guide

Wisconsin may be America's dairyland, but finding authentic poutine—that glorious Canadian comfort food of crispy fries smothered in gravy and squeaky cheese curds—requires knowing exactly where to look. After extensive research across the Milwaukee metro area, we've mapped out every spot serving this cheesy, gravy-laden delight, from dedicated poutine restaurants to hidden neighborhood gems.

Whether you're introducing the kids to their first poutine experience or seeking the perfect post-adventure meal, this guide will help you plan efficient family outings to discover Milwaukee's growing poutine scene.

The good news: Milwaukee's poutine offerings have expanded beyond the traditional Quebec classic into creative interpretations featuring breakfast toppings, Korean flavors, and distinctly Wisconsin twists. The honest truth: poutine remains surprisingly rare in the suburbs, so strategic planning pays off. Here's everything you need to know, organized by neighborhood to maximize your family food adventures.

Downtown Milwaukee

Poutine Stop at Paper Table Food Co.

733 N Milwaukee Street, Suite 10, Milwaukee, WI 53202

Milwaukee's only dedicated poutine restaurant deserves its reputation as the metro area's poutine headquarters. Owner Sylvia Larsson lived in Canada and brings authentic Quebec influence to every dish while adding creative Wisconsin and international twists that have earned this spot devoted fans.

The menu reads like a world tour of poutine possibilities. The Rich Boy—their most popular creation—layers spicy creole-style gravy with white cheddar cheese curds, pan-fried shrimp, and a secret aioli that keeps customers returning. The Badger pays homage to Wisconsin with grilled beer bratwurst and house horseradish sauce atop perfectly crispy fries. Adventurous eaters can explore Swedish poutine with housemade meatballs and lingonberries, Jamaican jerk chicken poutine with sweet mango glaze, or rotating Thai curry and Latin-inspired variations.

Every seasoning and gravy is made from scratch using locally sourced cheese curds and potatoes. The counter-service format inside the Paper Table Food Co. food hall works well for families seeking a quick, casual meal, though seating is limited—many families opt for takeout to enjoy at nearby Cathedral Square Park.

Hours: Tuesday–Sunday 11am–9pm; Closed Monday

West Allis Cheese & Sausage Shoppe at Milwaukee Public Market

400 N Water Street, Milwaukee Public Market, Milwaukee, WI 53202 | (414) 336-1111

Nestled within the bustling Milwaukee Public Market, this location of the beloved West Allis institution serves what reviewers call "transformative" poutine. The Breakfast Poutine tops crispy fries with their award-winning cheese curds, sausage, and beef gravy, finished with two eggs prepared your way—a hearty start to any family market adventure.

The classic poutine showcases why this shop has been voted Milwaukee's #1 cheese purveyor for eight consecutive years. Their gravy develops deep, savory complexity suggesting hours of careful simmering, while the golden-battered cheese curds "crunch like autumn leaves before revealing their molten, stretchy souls," as one eloquent reviewer described. Families visiting the Third Ward will find this the perfect fueling stop, and kids fascinated by cheese can explore the shop's 400+ Wisconsin cheese varieties while waiting for their order.

Hours: Monday–Saturday 10am–8pm; Sunday 10am–6pm

Café Benelux

346 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI 53202 | (414) 501-2500

This Belgian Grand Café brings European flair to poutine with their Duck Skillet Poutine, featuring tender duck and Wisconsin cheese curds in an elevated preparation that reflects the restaurant's Benelux heritage. The seasonally rotating preparation makes each visit a new discovery.

The atmosphere transforms any family meal into an experience. Kids love watching frites being prepared while parents appreciate the 200+ Belgian beer selection. The heated rooftop patio offers Third Ward views year-round, making this an excellent choice for special occasion family dinners. A dedicated kids menu, gluten-free options, and high chairs make this upscale-casual spot genuinely family-friendly despite its sophisticated vibe.

Hours: Monday–Thursday 8am–10pm; Friday–Saturday 8am–11pm; Sunday 8am–10pm

Oak Barrel Public House

1033 N Old World 3rd Street, Milwaukee, WI 53203 | (414) 897-8320

Located steps from Fiserv Forum, Oak Barrel offers a creative Breakfast Poutine ($16.99) during weekend brunch. Seasoned breakfast potatoes replace traditional fries, topped with scrambled eggs, their signature fried cheese curds, heavy country gravy, and fresh chives. It's a morning-appropriate twist that satisfies the poutine craving while keeping things brunch-friendly.

The exposed brick atmosphere and bourbon-forward design appeal to families catching a downtown event. Beyond poutine, their whiskey-battered cheese curds and artisan thin-crust pizzas keep younger diners happy. Note that poutine is available only during Saturday and Sunday brunch service from 10am–2pm.

Hours: Monday–Thursday 4pm–12am; Friday 11am–2am; Saturday 10am–2am; Sunday 10am–12am

Bay View brings creative gastropub poutine

The Vanguard

2659 S Kinnickinnic Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53207 | (414) 539-3593

Bay View's beloved gourmet sausage bar has earned citywide acclaim for innovative takes on comfort classics, and their poutine program doesn't disappoint. The Kimchi Poutine adds Korean-inspired punch with fermented vegetables, cheese curds, and housemade sauce atop perfectly crisped fries. The South Buffalo Poutine channels the neighborhood origins of their famous Smitty Wings with spiced gravy and blue cheese elements.

The pretension-free vibe pays homage to Milwaukee's classic corner bar culture while serving food that's anything but ordinary. The Chicago Tribune has recommended The Vanguard as a Milwaukee must-visit, and families will find the casual counter-service format accommodating. Kids gravitate toward the cheese curds and house sausages—including creative options like Duck BLT and Jamaican Lamb Currywurst—while the cult-favorite Burnt Ginger Tofu satisfies vegetarian family members. Strong vegan options throughout the menu make this one of the most accommodating spots for diverse family dietary needs.

Hours: Daily 11am–Midnight (kitchen serves until 2am for late-night cravings)

The North Shore

Three Lions Pub — Shorewood

4515 N Oakland Avenue, Shorewood, WI 53211 | (414) 763-6992

For North Shore families, Three Lions Pub represents the most reliable and beloved poutine destination. This traditional British pub serves two excellent versions that have earned devoted local following and enthusiastic reviews proclaiming "Poutine is back, baby!"

The Classic Poutine ($12) features British-style thick-cut chips smothered in cheese curds with their signature house-made Guinness gravy—a distinctively rich twist that adds malty depth to every bite. Weekend brunchers should try the Breakfast Poutine ($14), which substitutes fried tater tots for fries and adds bacon, scrambled eggs, and hollandaise sauce for morning indulgence.

Three Lions excels at family hospitality. Their kids menu offers familiar favorites like burgers, tenders, and fish 'n chips at $9 each, and the staff provides crayons and coloring sheets to keep little ones entertained. The warm pub atmosphere—complete with fireplace, pool table, and "extension of your living room" vibe—makes lingering comfortable. Saturday nights bring live music at 9:30pm, while weekend mornings attract soccer-loving families catching Premier League matches.

Hours: Monday–Thursday 11am–12am; Friday 11am–1am; Saturday 9am–1am; Sunday 9am–12am

Brunch It Up — Cedarburg

W62N535 Washington Avenue, Cedarburg, WI 53012 | (262) 304-0720

Downtown Cedarburg's charming breakfast spot brings creative flair to poutine with their signature Chorizo Poutine. Hand-cut fries or breakfast potatoes get topped with Wisconsin cheese curds and house chorizo gravy, creating a spiced, savory twist that pairs perfectly with their vibrant brunch atmosphere.

The modern, Instagram-worthy aesthetic appeals to families who appreciate good design alongside good food. Beyond poutine, the creative menu includes Chicken & Waffles, Croissant Beignets, and the popular "Dad Bod" breakfast. Parents will appreciate bottomless mimosas, while the welcoming atmosphere and attentive service make this an excellent choice for a Cedarburg day trip that combines small-town shopping with poutine discovery.

Hours: Monday–Friday 7am–3pm; Saturday–Sunday 8am–3pm

Café Hollander — Mequon

5900 W Mequon Road, Mequon, WI 53092 | (262) 236-0107

While poutine isn't prominently featured on their online menu, customer reviews confirm this Belgian café has served poutine, likely as a rotating special. The best approach: call ahead to inquire about current availability.

What's definitely available: Buckatabon Cheese Curds ($13.95) featuring hand-breaded local Muenster curds with sriracha ranch, plus frites cones that could satisfy a poutine craving in spirit if not in letter. The multi-level dining space includes a rooftop patio and winter domes for seasonal dining, positioned conveniently next to the Interurban bike trail—perfect for active families. A full kids menu with $7.95 options makes this a reliable North Shore choice for Belgian-inspired family dining.

Hours: Monday–Thursday 8am–10pm; Friday–Saturday 8am–11pm; Sunday 8am–10pm

West Suburbs

Drunken Cobra Bar & Grill — Wauwatosa

6818 W North Avenue, Wauwatosa, WI 53213 | (414) 455-3341

When the beloved Red Dot Tosa closed, poutine lovers mourned—until Drunken Cobra opened in 2020 and carried forward the tradition. Their Red Dot Poutine pays homage to its predecessor with classic fries or tots topped with cheese curds and gravy, while the Hac B-Fast Poutine ($12) adds hollandaise, scrambled or fried eggs, and bacon for weekend brunch crowds.

The kitschy, eclectic décor creates what regulars call "almost magical" atmosphere—especially notable during the holiday season. Families appreciate the kids menu, outdoor patio seating, and varied programming that includes reggae brunch on Sundays, trivia nights, and Monday bingo. Reviews consistently praise the poutine as capturing "no-frills style that reminds customers of Canada." Vegetarian and plant-based protein options expand accessibility for diverse family dietary needs.

Hours: Monday–Thursday 4pm–2am; Friday 4pm–2:30am; Saturday 11am–2:30am; Sunday 11am–2am

West Allis Cheese & Sausage Shoppe — West Allis

6832 W Becher Street, West Allis, WI 53219 | (414) 543-4230

The original West Allis location of this 50+ year family-owned institution serves what many consider the metro area's most "transformative" poutine. The Breakfast Poutine combines their award-winning cheese curds, sausage, beef gravy, and eggs your way over crispy fries—a perfect morning indulgence.

The half-retail, half-café format means kids can explore the cheese counter's 400+ varieties while waiting, and parents can stock up on provisions for the week ahead. The garden patio hosts family gatherings, and the no-fuss counter service keeps things easy with young children. Pro tip: their legendary Bloody Marys—topped with a grilled cheese slider, beef stick, bacon, and cheese curds—make this an adult favorite too, but drive responsibly if combining with poutine touring.

Hours: Monday–Friday 7am–5pm; Saturday 7am–4pm; Sunday 8am–2pm

SteelTank Brewing Co. — Oconomowoc

1225 Robruck Drive, Unit A, Oconomowoc, WI 53066 | (262) 569-6000

This veteran-owned brewery delivers the most reliably available poutine in the western suburbs. Their Poutine SteelTank Fries ($13.50) feature house gravy with Wisconsin cheese curds over perfectly crispy fries—straightforward and satisfying. For adventurous palates, the Elote SteelTank Fries ($13.50) offers a Mexican street corn twist with cilantro aioli, cotija cheese, crushed tortilla chips, and green onions.

The military theme runs throughout, from beer names like G.I. Party Kölsch and Ground Pound IPA to the attached Rally Point concert venue. Families appreciate the spacious layout, dog-friendly patio, and three-item kids menu. Reviews specifically praise the poutine gravy as "just as I was hoping" and "extremely yummy." The generous portions make this worth the drive from Milwaukee proper.

Hours: Tuesday–Thursday 3pm–10pm; Friday–Saturday 11am–10pm; Sunday 11am–9pm; Closed Monday

Belfrē Kitchen — Delafield

606 N Genesee Street, Delafield, WI 53018 | (262) 303-5066

For a special occasion poutine experience, this farm-to-table gem housed in a converted 1868 Presbyterian church offers seasonally rotating poutine that one reviewer called "Canada's best poutine right here in Wisconsin—absolutely out of this world."

The menu changes with Wisconsin's seasons, so calling ahead to confirm poutine availability is essential. What's guaranteed: locally sourced ingredients, creative contemporary American preparations, and an intimate atmosphere suited for families with older children who can appreciate the charming historic setting. The kids menu makes this accessible for families, though the ambiance leans more "nice dinner out" than casual weeknight.

Hours: Wednesday–Friday 4pm–9pm (Friday lunch 11am–2pm); Saturday 9am–2pm brunch, 4pm–9pm dinner; Sunday 9am–2pm brunch

Southern suburbs

Milwaukee Burger Company — Franklin

6421 S 27th Street, Franklin, WI 53132 | (414) 301-9938

Ranked #2 of 45 Franklin restaurants on TripAdvisor, this sports bar destination serves Wisconsin-Style Poutine featuring a distinctive beer-infused gravy that incorporates local Wisconsin brews. The "super-sized" portions reflect what they call "the Wisconsin way of life."

Families will find plenty to love beyond poutine. The award-winning Certified Angus Beef burgers include creative options like the Jalapeño & Smoked Cheddar Infused Burger, while cheese curd enthusiasts can explore "goofball-sized" mozzarella and pepper jack varieties. A kids menu, approximately 40 craft beers on tap for parents, and numerous TVs for sports viewing create an energetic atmosphere that works for family game-day outings.

Hours: Sunday–Monday 11am–9pm; Tuesday–Saturday 11am–10pm

Water Street Brewery — Oak Creek

140 W Town Square Way, Oak Creek, WI 53154 | (414) 301-5290

This established brewpub serves poutine alongside their house-brewed craft beers in a casual family-friendly setting. The Wisconsin cheese curds and house-prepared components reflect the brewery's commitment to quality, though the menu varies between their multiple locations.

The extensive menu includes Wisconsin Fish Fry specials, Brew City Mac with multiple Wisconsin cheeses, and beer-battered cheese curds that pair perfectly with their award-winning Honey Lager Light. A perfect 100/100 health score may reassure parents, and the kids menu with beverage and side included makes this a practical family choice. Multiple seating options from bar to outdoor patio accommodate different family preferences.

Hours: Tuesday–Thursday 11am–10pm; Friday–Saturday 11am–11pm; Sunday 10am–10pm; Closed Monday

Northern suburbs offer weekend breakfast options

The Alumni Club Tavern & Eatery — Menomonee Falls

N88 W16718 Appleton Avenue, Menomonee Falls, WI

Weekend breakfast seekers should mark this sports bar for its Breakfast Poutine: cheese curds and tater tots topped with eggs, all smothered in gravy. The tots-instead-of-fries swap creates a satisfying texture variation, and the hearty portion energizes active families.

Beyond poutine, the menu features famous thin crust pizza from the Varsity Club, wings with house-made Alumni Sauce in flavors from bourbon to mango habanero, and their popular Pulled Pork Tater Tot Nachos ("Tachos"). Multiple TV screens create sports bar ambiance, while the Friday Fish Fry with hand-breaded cod or Lake Perch satisfies Wisconsin tradition.

Weekend Breakfast Hours for Poutine: Saturday 11am–close; Sunday 8am–1pm

A mobile option worth tracking down

Cheffrey's Poutinerie — Food Truck

(262) 455-1879 | cheffreyspoutine.com

For families with gluten sensitivities, this family-owned food truck offers a 100% gluten-free poutine menu that travels throughout southeastern Wisconsin, including appearances at Milwaukee-area events and festivals. Their Classic Poutine features hand-cut fries, rich veal gravy, and squeaky cheese curds—traditional preparation executed safely for gluten-free diners.

The Breakfast Fries (their bestseller) pile grilled ham, sausage, bacon, onions, sweet peppers, country gravy, shredded cheese, scallions, and a fried over-easy egg over fries. The Wisconsin Tailgator adds grilled sausages and beer cheese sauce for game-day energy. Check their social media for current locations, or book them for private events—reviewers report "the food was the best part" of catered gatherings.

Planning your family poutine adventure

For efficient family outings, consider these geographic groupings:

Downtown/Third Ward Day: Start at Poutine Stop for the main event, explore the Milwaukee Public Market with a stop at West Allis Cheese & Sausage Shoppe, and walk off the calories exploring Third Ward shops and the Lakefront.

North Shore Loop: Begin with Three Lions Pub in Shorewood for classic poutine, then head north to Cedarburg for Brunch It Up's chorizo variation and small-town charm.

West Side Excursion: Hit Drunken Cobra in Wauwatosa for dinner, or start the day at West Allis Cheese & Sausage Shoppe for breakfast poutine before exploring the State Fair Park area.

Lake Country Escape: Make SteelTank Brewing in Oconomowoc the centerpiece of a Lake Country day trip, or time a visit to Belfrē Kitchen in Delafield when their seasonal poutine is available.

South Suburbs Sports Day: Combine Milwaukee Burger Company or Water Street Brewery with family activities in Franklin or Oak Creek.

The Wisconsin cheese curd advantage

What makes Milwaukee's poutine scene special isn't just the restaurants—it's the raw ingredients. Wisconsin produces more cheese than any other state, and the fresh, squeaky cheese curds essential to great poutine are available practically everywhere. Local restaurants can source curds made just days (or hours) ago, creating that signature squeak-against-your-teeth texture that distinguishes proper poutine from pretenders using aged cheese.

Many establishments highlighted here source specifically from Wisconsin creameries, creating poutine that represents both Canadian tradition and Wisconsin identity. As one West Allis Cheese reviewer noted, "Each bite offers the perfect combination of textures—the crunch of the fries, the squeak and stretch of the curds, and the silky embrace of that magnificent gravy."

Before you go: verification recommended

Restaurant menus evolve constantly, and several spots offer poutine as rotating specials rather than permanent menu items. A quick phone call before visiting ensures your family won't be disappointed. Pay particular attention to:

• Belfrē Kitchen (Delafield) — seasonal availability only

• Café Hollander Mequon — may be special/request only

• Oak Barrel Public House — breakfast poutine weekends only (Saturday/Sunday 10am–2pm)

• The Alumni Club — breakfast poutine weekends only

Supporting these local businesses means supporting the Milwaukee community. Each poutine order contributes to neighborhood restaurants, local cheese producers, and the families who run these establishments. Happy poutine hunting, and may your fries be crispy, your curds squeaky, and your gravy plentiful.