SWIG

Small-plate concept makes dining a shared experience

FINE DINING is fun again! For those of us bored with the lock-step of appetizer, then soup or salad, and finally entrée, Swig has the cure.

The “small plate dining” here is designed to make eating a shared experience, where guests choose from several items, sampling may different flavors and textures without the commitment of one large entree that you may or may not enjoy.

The friendly staff here is always ready with suggestions, if requested. Once a table receives its first selections, beautifully prepared and promptly served, it’s easy to go on from there.

Swig is conveniently located to all downtown hotels at 1227 N. Water St. Also a boon for travelers is the fact that the restaurant is open seven days a week, serving food from 4 p.m. to midnight.

Using rich earth tones, Owners Joe and Angie Sorge have created a décor that is sophisticated, and Zen-like in its simplicity. High and low-topped dining tables and conversation areas furnished with leather easy chairs are designed for conversation.

Although designed as a restaurant first and foremost, Swig has an intimate lounge atmosphere that makes it a popular nightspot as well. Happy hour from 4-6 p.m. Monday through Friday features complimentary menu samples Many find the food and atmosphere here so irresistible e they are there for the evening!

Black bean cakes with cilantro sour cream and salsa, lobster lasagna with sun-dried tomato pesto, chili shrimp atop a sweet potato cake with vanilla butter sauce, and tempura snap peas with tarragon sour cream sauce were just a few of the offerings at a recent visit. Vegetarians, beef-lovers and seafood fans all will feel well taken care of with Swig’s menu.

The excellence that marks the food preparation here extends to the beer, wine and mixed drink offerings as well. Swig’s menu devotes six pages to beverages. The wine and beer lists offer a virtual round-the-world tour, with 30 wines by the glass and another 20 by the bottle. Twenty different martinis are available.

Plan your dining to accommodate a dessert, because Swig provides an opportunity to sample bakery from Simma’s Bakery, Milwaukee’s favorite spot for indulgences such as Mile-High Carrot Cake and cheesecake. Swig also serves a chocolate fondue, with dippers  that include  fruit, frozen cheesecake squares and assorted pastries. Another Milwaukee original, Alterra Coffee Roasters, provides the beans for coffee and espresso drinks.

September can provide some of Milwaukee’s best weather, and Swig’s front windows open to provide all the advantages of dining alfresco. Cool Lake Michigan breezes can come in, while diners stay comfortable and covered.

For reservations and information on special events (such as wine tastings) phone 414-431-7944. Info also is available at www.swigmilwaukee.com.