Milwaukee's ultimate New Year's Dining Guide 2025-2026

The Milwaukee area offers more than 130 restaurants taking reservations for New Year's Eve 2025 and New Year's Day 2026, ranging from lavish six-course tasting experiences to family-friendly celebrations under $40. Whether you're seeking a romantic prix fixe dinner overlooking Lake Michigan, a festive champagne countdown at a boutique hotel, or a relaxed New Year's Day brunch with bottomless mimosas, this comprehensive guide covers every neighborhood, cuisine type, and price point across Milwaukee, the Third Ward, Bay View, Wauwatosa, Brookfield, and the North Shore suburbs.

Fine dining experiences worth the splurge

Milwaukee's most prestigious restaurants pull out all the stops on New Year's Eve, offering multi-course tasting menus with champagne toasts, live entertainment, and celebratory atmospheres that justify premium pricing.

Bacchus – A Bartolotta Restaurant (Downtown)

The crown jewel of Milwaukee's NYE dining scene, Bacchus offers two distinct experiences. The New Year's Eve Bash at $325 per person (plus service charge and tax) features a six-course chef-curated dinner with six wine pairings, including dishes like Black Truffle Ravioli with French Périgord truffle, Olive Oil-Poached Seabass with Ossetra caviar, and Australian Wagyu Strip Loin. Live jazz with vocalist Corynn Latta accompanies dinner, followed by dancing in the conservatory until midnight with hors d'oeuvres and a champagne toast. Note: 7:00 PM seating is already sold out – remaining seatings at 7:15 and 7:30 PM.

For those seeking flexibility, a three-course à la carte dinner starts at $130 per person, served 4-10 PM.

• Address: 925 E. Wells Street, Milwaukee

• Reservations: exploretock.com/bacchus (Bash tickets) or OpenTable/(414) 765-1166 (à la carte)

• Website: bartolottas.com/bacchus

Birch (East Side)

This intimate restaurant delivers a five-course dinner at $145 per person featuring hot-smoked steelhead trout and lobster pasta. At the bar, Pepe's Oyster Menu offers a more casual celebration with an ice cream sundae finale.

• Address: 459 E. Pleasant Street, Milwaukee

• Reservations: OpenTable

• Tip: Limited seating makes early booking essential

Lupi & Iris (Downtown)

Offering one of Milwaukee's most comprehensive NYE dining programs, this upscale Italian spot features multiple options: a three-course lunch at $50+ per person (11:30 AM-2 PM), early dinner at $100+ per person (5-5:30 PM), or the main event – a four-course dinner at $150+ per person (5:30-9:45 PM). Live jazz from 8 PM to 1 AM creates a sophisticated atmosphere.

• Address: 777 N. Van Buren Street, Milwaukee

• Reservations: Tock

• Note: Space is limited; reservations required

Barnacle Bud's (Bay View)

The most intimate fine dining experience available, with just 26 seats for their five-course dinner at $160 per person. Seatings at 5 PM and 8 PM accommodate parties under 4 people only.

• Address: 1955 S. Hilbert Street, Milwaukee

• Reservations: Email barnaclebudsparty@gmail.com

The Bartolotta Restaurant Group leads Milwaukee's celebration

The Bartolotta family's eight-restaurant empire offers the most extensive NYE dining program in the region, with all locations open 4 PM–10 PM on December 31st.

Restaurant Location Price Courses Highlights Lake Park Bistro Milwaukee (Lakefront) $125/person 3-course French cuisine, oysters, foie gras, lake views Harbor House Milwaukee (Lakefront) $130/person 3-course New England seafood, lobster thermidor, raw bar Ristorante Bartolotta Dal 1993 Wauwatosa $125/person 4-course Authentic Italian, Alba white truffle add-on available ($75-$100) The Commodore Hartland $125/person 4-course Contemporary American, Lake Country views Mr. B's Steakhouse Brookfield & Mequon À la carte Specials Prime steaks, oysters Rockefeller Joey Gerard's Greendale À la carte Specials Classic supper club atmosphere

All Bartolotta reservations can be made at bartolottas.com or via OpenTable.

Hotel celebrations combine dining with festivities

Milwaukee's boutique and historic hotels create complete NYE experiences combining fine dining, live entertainment, and midnight celebrations.

The Pfister Hotel (Downtown)

Milwaukee's most iconic hotel offers multiple venues for celebration:

Blu (23rd Floor) – The city's most spectacular views come with premium pricing. VIP packages range from $350 (Silver) to $500 (Diamond) and include table reservations, Moët & Chandon champagne, party favors, dessert displays, and live music from vocalist Donna Woodall. Reserve via BluReservations@thepfisterhotel.com with credit card guarantee required.

Mason Street Grill – A prix fixe menu at $125 per person features three courses including lobster bisque, lobster tails, and NY strip steak. Live music in the bar, champagne toast at midnight. Reservations: (414) 298-3131 or OpenTable.

• Address: 425 E. Mason Street (inside The Pfister)

• Website: thepfisterhotel.com

Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel (Downtown/Theater District)

The artsy boutique hotel offers the area's most varied NYE programming:

The Studio Kitchen serves a prix fixe menu at $145 per person from 5-11 PM, while The Bar at Saint Kate hosts a free celebration starting at 3 PM with live music all afternoon, party favors, and midnight champagne toast (no reservations required). For something truly special, the New Year's Eve Omakase in the Arc Theater offers an exclusive 20-course experience (book via Tock).

New Year's Day Brunch: "Bubbles & Brunch" runs 8 AM-1 PM with mimosa flights and curated brunch entrées.

• Address: 139 E. Kilbourn Avenue, Milwaukee

• Reservations: (414) 270-4422 or saintkatearts.com

The Iron Horse Hotel (Walker's Point)

Ash Hearth & Bar offers à la carte dining 4-10 PM with Wagyu tartare, wild-boar tortellini, and tiramisu. The NYE Ballroom Glitz Party at $85 per person ($160/couple) includes open bar, DJ, late-night appetizers, and champagne toast starting at 9 PM.

• Address: 500 W. Florida Street

• Website: theironhorsehotel.com

The Trade Hotel (Downtown)

Il Cervo rooftop restaurant offers a four-course Italian family-style tasting menu at $90 per person (4-11 PM). The hotel also hosts "Gatsby MKE" – a 1920s-themed party with packages from $90-$2,000 featuring fortune tellers, jazz band, photo booth, and champagne toast.

• Reservations: Tock

Premier steakhouses for a classic celebration

Milwaukee's steakhouse tradition shines on New Year's Eve, with several establishments offering the perfect setting for special occasions.

Carnevor Steakhouse Moderne (Downtown)

This contemporary steakhouse maintains its full à la carte menu of USDA Prime and Japanese Wagyu beef alongside fresh seafood. A $50 per person deposit (applied toward dinner) is required with 48-hour cancellation policy.

• Address: 718 N. Milwaukee Street

• Reservations: OpenTable or (414) 223-2200

• Website: carnevor.com

Eddie Martini's (Wauwatosa)

This intimate 1940s-style steakhouse offers a classic supper club experience with professional, tenured staff. No special prix fixe – expect the full à la carte menu with exceptional cuts and an outstanding wine list. Reservations strongly recommended.

• Address: 8612 W. Watertown Plank Road, Wauwatosa

• Phone: (414) 771-6680 (call directly; reservations recommended)

• Website: eddiemartinis.com

• Note: Closed Sundays but open December 31 (Wednesday)

Five O'Clock Steakhouse (Near West Side)

Experience a true Wisconsin supper club with live jazz from Christopher's Project (9:30 PM-12:15 AM). Classic touches include relish trays, bread service, and family-style salad with every entrée. Prime rib specialty ranges $45-$78.

• Address: 2416 W. State Street

• Reservations: (414) 342-3553 or OpenTable

• Website: fiveoclocksteakhouse.com

Fleming's Prime Steakhouse (Brookfield)

Open regular hours (11 AM-10 PM) with their full premium menu. Social Hour runs 3-6 PM with $9 cocktails and bar bites.

• Address: 15665 W. Bluemound Road, Brookfield

• Phone: (262) 782-9463

• Website: flemingssteakhouse.com

Mid-range gems deliver excellent value

These restaurants offer memorable NYE experiences at more accessible price points, typically ranging $50-$100 per person.

Amilinda (Downtown)

A five-course Iberian dinner at $130 per person (with optional $35 beverage pairings) at seatings of 5:30 PM and 8:30 PM. Complimentary sparkling wine included.

• Address: 315 E. Wisconsin Avenue

• Reservations: OpenTable

EsterEv (Bay View)

An eight-course tasting menu at $125 per person ($65 beverage pairings) features lobster, white truffle, crab, and Beef Wellington. Only open December 28-31, this accessible fine dining spot from the Top Chef: Wisconsin featured Dans (Van Rite & Jacobs) books up fast.

• Address: 2165 S. Kinnickinnic Avenue, Bay View

Braise (Walker's Point)

Farm-to-table excellence in a four-course format at $85 per person ($30 wine pairings). Menu highlights include duck confit empanada, seared scallops, and beef tenderloin.

• Address: 1101 S. 2nd Street

• Phone: (414) 212-8843

• Website: braiselocalfood.com

Morel (Walker's Point)

This upscale American farm-to-table spot featuring Wisconsin ingredients is hosting a special NYE celebration. Known for seasonal menus with morel mushrooms, duck, lamb, and fish. Note: Closed January 1-8 for holiday break.

• Address: 430 S. 2nd Street

• Reservations: OpenTable or (414) 897-0747

• Website: morelmke.com

The Melting Pot (Brookfield)

Interactive fondue dining offers a one-night-only four-course menu at approximately $80 per person including cheese fondue, salad, entrée, and chocolate fondue dessert. Open 4-11 PM (set menu only). Closed New Year's Day.

• Address: 19850 W. Bluemound Road, Brookfield

• Phone: (262) 782-6358

• Website: meltingpot.com/brookfield-wi

Bay View and Walker's Point deliver neighborhood character

These adjacent neighborhoods offer Milwaukee's trendiest dining scene with restaurants that balance creativity and celebration.

Odd Duck (Walker's Point)

Milwaukee's beloved small plates institution since 2012 offers globally-inspired dishes from an ever-changing menu. Expect special drinks, champagne toast, and party favors at midnight with a "space disco" dress code encouraged. Open December 31; Closed December 24-29 and New Year's Day.

• Address: 939 S. 2nd Street

• Reservations: Resy or (414) 763-5881

• Website: oddduckrestaurant.com

Goodkind (Bay View)

Modern American rotisserie in a cozy corner tavern atmosphere. Open regular hours on NYE (5-10 PM). Check for special menu availability. 90-minute table limit; walk-ins welcome at bar.

• Address: 2457 S. Wentworth Avenue

• Reservations: Tock or (414) 763-4706

• Website: goodkindbayview.com

La Merenda (Walker's Point)

International tapas spanning Spanish, Colombian, Indonesian, Indian, and Moroccan cuisines at $5-$14 per plate. A colorful, energetic atmosphere perfect for groups who want variety without breaking the bank.

• Address: 125 E. National Avenue

• Reservations: Website or (414) 389-0125

• Website: lamerenda125.com

North Shore suburbs offer upscale and family-friendly options

Mr. B's Steakhouse – Mequon

The North Shore's premier steakhouse offers à la carte specials on NYE, open 4-10 PM. Known for special occasion brunch on major holidays.

• Address: 6107 W. Mequon Road, Mequon

• Reservations: OpenTable or (262) 790-7005

• Website: bartolottas.com/mr-b-s-steakhouse/mequon

Jack Pandl's Whitefish Bay Inn

This historic institution (established 1915) brings German-American charm to NYE in a cozy log cabin setting. Famous for German pancakes, Wiener schnitzel, and whitefish. Family-friendly atmosphere with moderate pricing.

• Address: 1319 E. Henry Clay Street, Whitefish Bay

• Reservations: OpenTable or (414) 964-3800

• Website: jackpandls.com

Café Hollander Mequon

Belgian-inspired American dining ideal for groups and families. Features two dining floors, private event spaces, rooftop patio, and Winter Domes for heated outdoor seating. Award-winning Bloody Marys and 100+ Belgian beers.

• Address: 5900 W. Mequon Road, Mequon

• Reservations: Website or phone

• Website: cafehollander.com

MOXIE Food + Drink (Whitefish Bay)

Upscale-casual American comfort food (steaks, seafood, pasta) in a warm, welcoming LGBT/women-owned establishment. Contact directly to confirm NYE hours.

• Address: 501 E. Silver Spring Drive, Whitefish Bay

• Phone: (414) 204-8980

• Website: eatatmoxie.com

Calderone Club (Fox Point)

Authentic Italian with thin-crust pizza, lasagna, and homemade tiramisu in a family-friendly, casual setting. Full bar and outdoor patio. Call directly for reservations (not on OpenTable).

• Address: 8001 N. Port Washington Road, Fox Point

• Website: calderoneclubfoxpoint.com

Budget-friendly celebrations under $50

Celebrating without breaking the bank is absolutely possible with these wallet-friendly options.

Lakefront Brewery – Swedish-Style New Year

A unique celebration at $35 per person from 3-7 PM features cheeses, meats, Swedish meatballs, and a "midnight" toast at 5 PM (Swedish time).

• Address: 1872 N. Commerce Street

• Reservations: Tock

County Clare Irish Inn

Live music from Ian Gould starting 5 PM with an Irish New Year toast at 6 PM (midnight in Ireland). No cover charge with food specials available.

Shanghai (East Side)

This speakeasy cocktail bar offers reservations at $30 per person including sparkling toast and one cocktail. 90-minute reservation windows via Tock.

• Address: 2238 N. Farwell Avenue

• Reservations: Tock

Lou Malnati's (Brookfield)

Family-friendly early countdown with buffet at 3 PM and "bubbly" countdown at 5 PM – perfect for families with young children.

WhirlyBall (Brookfield)

Family NYE from noon-5 PM at $40/adult, $30/child includes laser tag, bowling, WhirlyBall, and food.

New Year's Day brunch to recover in style

Start 2026 with these excellent brunch options:

Saint Kate – "Bubbles & Brunch" (8 AM-1 PM) – Mimosa flights and curated brunch entrées in an artsy hotel setting.

Avlí (1818 N. Hubbard Street) – Greek brunch 10 AM-4 PM for Milwaukee's newest Mediterranean spot.

Oak Barrel Public House (1033 N. Old World 3rd Street) – "Doses & Mimosas" with bottomless mimosas 10 AM-2 PM, live DJ, full brunch menu.

Honeypie Cafe (Bay View, 2569 S. Kinnickinnic Avenue) – Midwest comfort food brunch featuring famous homemade pies, Farmer's Breakfast, and legendary Bloody Marys.

Jack Pandl's Whitefish Bay Inn – Sunday hours 10:30 AM-8 PM with famous German pancakes and sparkling brunch drinks.

First Watch – Mequon (11032 N. Port Washington Road) – Open 7 AM-2:30 PM with fresh-squeezed juices, gluten-free and vegan options. Join waitlist online or call (262) 518-0028.

How to book your New Year's celebration

OpenTable remains the most comprehensive platform with 133+ Milwaukee restaurants accepting NYE reservations. Visit opentable.com/events/new-years-eve/neighborhood/milwaukee.

Tock handles many upscale and ticketed experiences including Lupi & Iris, Lakefront Brewery, Il Cervo, Shanghai, and At Random.

Resy features select Milwaukee restaurants including Odd Duck and Mader's.

Direct booking through restaurant websites is required for Bartolotta restaurants (bartolottas.com), Eddie Martini's, and several boutique spots.

Booking tips for success

Book immediately – premium seatings at venues like Bacchus are already sold out. Expect deposits of $25-$50 per person at upscale restaurants, typically refundable with 48-72 hour cancellation notice. For groups of 6+, call restaurants directly as many online systems limit party sizes. If your first choice is unavailable, check for late seatings (9:30 PM+) which often have better availability and include midnight festivities.

Conclusion

Greater Milwaukee delivers exceptional New Year's Eve and New Year's Day dining across every price point and neighborhood. The Bartolotta restaurant group's eight venues provide the most extensive coordinated programming, while independent gems like Birch, EsterEv, and Barnacle Bud's offer intimate tasting experiences that rival any major city. For those prioritizing celebration over cuisine, hotel venues like The Pfister's Blu lounge and Saint Kate combine dining with entertainment, dancing, and midnight toasts. With reservations moving fast – particularly at popular venues – booking now ensures you'll ring in 2026 exactly as you envision.