The 22 Best Restaurants In Milwaukee 2024

"Eating a meal at Ardent feels like watching an orchestra play a concerto—every course builds on the last, and thoughtful wine pairings deepen the flavors rather than just getting you wasted. What sets this fine dining restaurant apart from all the other prix-fixe and farm-to-table options in Milwaukee is that the chef-owner sources beef and other ingredients from his family’s Wisconsin farm. There are only a set number of reservations available Friday and Saturday nights for the eight-course tasting menu, which is what you want. They also have a lounge that’s open Friday to Monday, which is still a great dinner spot for a smashed burger or a roast half-chicken, even if it’s not quite as memorable as the tasting." - kristine hansen