Real Coffee Club
New American restaurantNew American restaurant

The Original

★★★★½ 4.8/5 (100 reviews)
$$
2498 N Bartlett Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53211 (414) 763-4811 Website
The Original The Original The Original The Original The Original

Reviews (100)

Amanda Gordon
Amanda Gordon
★★★★★ Jan 20, 1970

The food was delicious. The drinks were fantastic. The service was outstanding! Did not disappoint!

Josh Gordon
Josh Gordon
★★★★★ Jan 20, 1970

Best food and drink in Wisconsin. Hands down.

Traci L (L)
Traci L (L)
★★★★★ Jan 20, 1970

Wonderful family restaurant with owners who take absolute pride in service and quality. I was joyfully impressed by the astehics and engagement from the owner. Me and my friends and I did not want to leave to go to our next event, just a nice environment to chat with special loved ones, and it almost felt like a second home.

Gary Lancina
Gary Lancina
★★★★★ Jan 20, 1970

A favorite on the East Side for unexpectedly fabulous dishes. The chef is talented, and the barkeep is, as well. Have never been disappointed.

David Caban
David Caban
★★★★★ Jan 20, 1970

Every meal here has been exquisite. If you haven't tried it, you're missing out.

Joey Gianotti
Joey Gianotti
★★★★★ Jan 20, 1970

Been around the World. Never have I ever had a better breakfast. Enhanced even more by the amazing crew. Felt at home and the vibe is relaxed and comforting. Will be back again…..

Nancy Katz
Nancy Katz
★★★★★ Jan 20, 1970

Wow! Simply wow! The cocktail was "original" and very tasty. The duckling was perfectly crispy and yet tender. The salad tasted like it was barely minutes from the garden. Basel cake was the finishing touch, and it was amazing! We can't wait for our next visit to Milwaukee!

Robert Simpson
Robert Simpson
★★★★★ Jan 20, 1970

Excellent meal and great personal service.

Zach M
Zach M
★★★★★ Jan 20, 1970

Great service, food, cocktails, and ambiance!

Thomas Doyle
Thomas Doyle
★★★★★ Jan 20, 1970

The food here is amazing. Cozy atmosphere and very attentive staff. Just a great place for dinner.

John Doerrer
John Doerrer
★★★★☆ Jan 20, 1970

Really enjoyed this place. Neighborhood gem. Food was very good. Drinks were fantastic. We will be back. Was very GF friendly.

Lauren Domski
Lauren Domski
★★★★★ Jan 20, 1970

This place is a must to check out and frequent when you are craving some craft cocktails and high quality food. The owner served our group who was there for a birthday, and it was a blast to laugh with him and learn a bit more about his vision for the place. It was a beyond memorable experience for us all. Amazing array of liquors behind the bar. A great spot to come even for a few drinks and appetizers at the bar! P.s. Brussel Sprouts, House Cured Salmon and the Scallops are all a must as well as the Brandy Old Fashioned Panna Cotta for dessert!

B Fisher
B Fisher
★★★★★ Jan 20, 1970

Awesome place for dinner or just a drink. Large drink menu for every fancy; highly skilled bartender. Impossible to just have one drink! Food from appetizers to deserts were finely crafted with generous portions. Very cozy atmosphere; great for a date or to go with friends. A new favorite in the north shore for me!

Emma Wulf
Emma Wulf
★★★★★ Jan 20, 1970

We ate here last Friday for an intimate birthday dinner. First time, but definitely not the last. Everything exceeded our expectations. Really friendly and knowledgeable service from the owner, Expertly made cocktails, The brussels sprouts! Also could not recommend the steak any more if I tried. Best steak I've ever had. The grits and crab gratin were the perfect accompaniment. Have been singing this place's praises since, is it payday yet?

Charlie Lembach
Charlie Lembach
★★★★★ Jan 20, 1970

Best mistake I made all day. Thought I was going someplace else and once realized, gave this hidden gem a try. Brunch menu was hard to choose from but decided on the Monte Cristo. Loved every bite. Service and atmosphere was perfect. I will be back.

Doug Plumeri
Doug Plumeri
★★★★★ Jan 20, 1970

Don't just go for the incredible craft cocktails. The food is just as incredible! Great neighborhood spot! Must check it out!!!

Rachael Spalding
Rachael Spalding
★★★★★ Jan 20, 1970

I adore the Original. My partner lives across the street and I’d been wanting to try it for awhile, but tonight we finally stopped in! Everything about our experience was marvelous, from the impeccable food to the gracious hospitality from one of the owners. The warm ambiance and small, seasonal menu at the Original is meant to be savored and has clearly been crafted by someone who understands how a meal can satisfy not only the body, but the soul. Try the chestnut soup. An unctuous umami bomb unlike anything I’ve tasted before.

Brent Quirk
Brent Quirk
★★★★★ Jan 20, 1970

Outstanding old fashioneds and food was incredible. The Johnny Cakes are unique but delicious and the lobster skillet special was the best out there. Absolutely perfect in every sense including the service

Wesley Miles
Wesley Miles
★★★☆☆ Jan 20, 1970

Usually love this spot. This time food was not as good as in the past. It was good comfort food. Mushrooms in surf and turf were excellent. But other dishes were oversalted. Service was mixed. Server was great with N/A recommendations and customizations, but the server assistant seemed to struggle (though probably newer in industry) Well definitely be back, but this last visit removed a bit of the sparkle.

Abbie I.
Abbie I.
★★★★★ Jan 20, 1970

I came here because it popped up with a picture when I googled “shrimp and grits near me”. I was bummed when I got there and they didn’t have it. But the food they did have was really good! I’d definitely come back.