restaurant of the month - may 2009

Milwaukee Brat House

Old World 3rd Street pub features Milwaukee favorite

WHEN IN MILWAUKEE, do as the Milwaukeeans do.

That means treating yourself to a great bratwurst. Our pick for the place to do just that is the Milwaukee Brat House at 1013 Old World 3rd St. The location is perfect – directly across the street from Usinger’s Famous Sausage, where the "wurstmachers" craft sausages from original family recipes, unchanged since 1880.

With historic storefronts and cobblestone walkways, the Old World charm is genuine. While the Brat House describes itself as a “Professional Drinking Establishment for Beer Barons, Boot Leggers and Patriots,” the place is truly dedicated to the last. ”In Honor of Those Who Served” is a mission statement echoed in the restaurant’s signage and attitude.

The décor features an embossed tin ceiling, antique lighting fixtures, stained glass accents and detailed woodwork that give the Brat House a decades-old atmosphere. A focal point is a reproduction of a 1912 painting depicting the bar at the storied McSorley’s Old Ale House in New York City. But despite the look and feel of historic Milwaukee, the restaurant celebrates its first anniversary on Memorial Day 2009. A gala celebration is set for Sunday, May 24.

The Brat House was a labor of love for business partners Jack Schaefer and Mike Kellogg. During a seven-month renovation, they brought together favorite features from neighborhood bars throughout NYC to create a place that celebrates Milwaukee’s favorite food group.

When Jack Schaefer, a Milwaukee native, launched the bar he saw his dream come true – only to lose his battle with cancer last fall. Scott Schaefer, Jack’s brother, came on board after that loss. Those who gather to celebrate the Brat House’s first birthday, also will be lifting a toast “to Jack.”

Then again, at the Brat House it’s always about good friends and great times! A big flat-panel TV helps sports fans cheer on their favorite teams. As warm weather hits the city, the Brat House welcomes balmy breezes by opening the huge windows overlooking Old World 3rd St. Outdoor dining options include sidewalk patio tables in front and picnic tables in the Beer Garden out back.

The menu here means mouth-watering eats at a great price. While the brat rules, there is a wide selection of appetizers, soups and salads, sausages and sandwiches. There even is a signature brew – “Be Gone” Dark Ale (as in “Be Good or Be Gone.”)

Try Captain Mike’s Chicken Ranch Salad or Beer Cheese Soup. The bratwurst is bathed in beer and onions, then served on a salted pretzel roll. All of the sausages – bratwurst, Polish or Italian – are Usinger’s brand. The 1/4 lb. hot dog is served with that Milwaukee favorite, Secret Stadium Sauce. From the menu’s sandwich side, choices include a bacon cheeseburger, blazin’ buffalo chicken sandwich and pulled pork sandwich.

If it’s really late and you are really hungry, this is the place to be. You guessed it – brats – are available until the doors close.

Hours are noon-2:30 a.m. Mon., 10:30 a.m.-2:30 a.m. Tues.-Sat., 10:30 a.m.-midnight Sun. Phone 273-8709 for information, or visit www.milwaukeebrathouse.com.