A VISIT to Dish Bistro is like popping into a corner cafe in Paris or Rome. Located close to downtown hotels at 801 N. Cass St., this is a convenient place for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Because the restaurant is housed in a historic 1865 building, the dining room features high ceilings, interesting architectural details and intriguing nooks and crannies. Original artwork adorns the walls.

The intimate dining room makes Dish Bistro the perfect spot to gather, whether for a business luncheon or a romantic dinner for two. Travelers appreciate the restaurant’s hours, which extend from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Consider Dish Bistro after the theater or before touring Milwaukee’s nearby attractions.

The corner of N. Cass and E. Wells Sts. has been known as a place for friendly service and culinary creativity  since 1980. Owner Diane Benjamin is known for home-style cuisine that takes advantage of the best fresh ingredients available.

Having a “scratch kitchen” means that Benjamin can serve delicious food that also is prepared in a health-conscious manner. The staff is as knowledgeable as they are friendly, and happy to assist with special dietary needs. It is a point of pride here that customers can order a complete meal for $15 or less. Specials change regularly, reflecting Benjamin’s latest inspiration.

A quick glance at the menu proves that an emphasis on quality hasn’t limited the number of options. At breakfast, try Crab Cake Benedict to Potato Pie or Oriental Omelette. But the real piece de resistance is the “Super Hoppel Poppel”–egg, sliced potatoes, salami, onions, mushrooms, and mixed cheese.

At lunch, it’s hard to resist ordering a salad. Lobster BLT, Honey Pecan Pork, and Avocado Walnut are among the choices. For a Euro experience, the Panini sandwiches are authentically “pressed,” or choose an All-American half-pound burger.

At dinner, don’t miss the Alaskan King Crab Cakes, beautifully served as an appetizer with warmed spinach, peppers, onions and mustard sauce. There are enough appetizer options to put together a “small-plate” dinner, if that’s your preference.

Pasta choices can be tailored to an individual’s preference, with the addition of chicken, scallops, shrimp, or perhaps tenderloin.

There are tempting steak and veal choices, and seafood offerings include Ouzo Shrimp and Macadamia Encrusted Salm on.

It’s difficult here...but try to save room for dessert. Bourbon Pecan Pie, Caramel Granny Apple Cake, or Lemon Gelato, anyone?

Dish Bistro offers an interesting wine list, or you can finish off a meal with a favorite espresso coffee drink.

Party arrangements are available. Contact Dish Bistro at 414-276-1577, or visit www.milwaukeedishbistro.com.