Bay View is a vibrant Milwaukee neighborhood just south of downtown, and a place we’ve called home for the last three years. If you live in the area, or are just here for a visit, Bay View is a great place to explore to get a taste of local Milwaukee flavor.

Restaurants

There are a countless number of great restaurants in Bay View, but over the years, I have established some favorites.

Guanajuato – This is one of our favorites spots, and the best spot for authentic Mexican! They have a great menu, delicious homemade salsa and strong margaritas. A great place to go with friends, or to enjoy a fun date night (inside, or on their patio).

Odd Duck – If you’re taste buds are looking for something different, look no further! Odd Duck has an ever changing small plates menu for you and your friends to savor and share. I feel like I rarely know what I’m ordering since their menu is so unique, but every item I’ve had has been unbelievably good.

Cafe Centraal – A “go-to” restaurant, Cafe Central basically has it all. Great brunch, a wide selection of entrees, great black bean burgers and a plethora of beers on tap. The atmosphere is great, and the outdoor patio is lovely during the summer months.

Barnacle Buds – If you’re looking for a laid-back place to hang out with friends or family, look no further! Barnacle Buds has a ton of outdoor seating and great seafood right on the Kinnickinnic River. Perfect for enjoying a night out!

Coffee Shops

There are many great coffee shops throughout Bay View, so you really can’t go wrong. But my favorite local spots are Colectivo and Small Pie.

Colectivo – A Milwaukee staple, Colectivo is located in the center of Bay View. I always love going here to enjoy a coffee and a sweet treat. With ample seating inside and outside, you’ll always have the perfect place to relax, work or chat with friends.

Small Pie – A new addition to the Bay View neighborhood, this cute cafe is a converted auto body shop. Owned by Honey Pie (another great Bay View staple), you can find great coffees, delicious hand pies, and more at this quaint cafe.

Local Shops & Activities

Milwaukee has a number of antique and local shops, and Bay View is no exception.

Tip Top Atomic Shop – Bay View is FILLED with vintage shops, but Tip Top Atomic Shop has a great selection for clothes, decor and accessories. Always a fun place to stop by to browse for some unique finds.

Bay View Printing Co. – On top of making awesome prints and stationary, Bay View Printing Co. also host print parties and workshops! If you are looking for something different to do on your night out, look no further. Check out their site to sign up for a class!

The Hen House & Brass Rooster – These shops are owned by a husband and wife team, and they sell the coolest custom hats! The Hen House is all women’s hats and fascinators, and Brass Rooster is filled with custom men’s hats. They have a wide selection for sale, and they are all great quality. You can also have them make a hat just for you!

Avalon Theatre – Looking to see a movie in Bay View? Head to the historic Avalon! While the theater is small, it is filled with charm. There is a great bar attached to enjoy a cocktail before your movie, and they even have dining options in the theater. On top of this, the decor is very cool, with shooting stars on the ceiling, and a classic theater atmosphere.

Bars

Next to a great number of restaurants, Bay View has a ton of fun bars to check out! I’m more into a chill night out, so here are some of my favorites.

Lee’s Luxury Lounge – Lee’s has a relaxed 70’s vibe. It’s a small, local place with good cocktails and a game room with ski ball, darts and pool tables. Really fun if you’re looking for something outside of your typical Milwaukee bar.

South Shore Terrace – With views of the harbor and Lake Michigan, South Shore Terrace is a great spot to hang during the summer months. This outdoor bar is newer to the Bay View area, but it’s a great place to bring family and friends if you are looking for a fun night out for all ages.

Do you have any favorite Bay View spots? Comment below!