Blue Bat Kitchen & Tequilaria

I’ve been to Blue Bat twice—once for lunch and once for dinner. The food is good but nothing particularly memorable. My friends enjoy this place more than I do- they love the fried foods and sauces. What really stands out for me is the atmosphere: the space is large, bright, and perfect for accommodating bigger groups. The staff is friendly, and the location is great—right by the water and close to everything in the Third Ward. Just be prepared for a bit of a parking challenge during peak hours.

Google maps recommended this place for fish for Sunday lunch, we didn't see anything on the lunch menu as far as seafood except for a fancy shrimp bowl. we didn't have reservations nor thought we needed them so we were sat at a booth / table at the bar. the bartender was our waiter, sorry forgot his name, tall guy. gave us a few minutes to look at everything on the menu, I had to translate a bit for my friend so it took us a few minutes. we ordered food first then changed our minds about drinks, so we got a house Margarita and a Sprecher. I like how we were given water in actual glasses and not plastic. we're not going to knock them over and they don't feel cheap. it really felt like I was in a very upscale place, glad I had sort of dressed for the occasion. we were impressed by the amazing number of rare tequilas they had both on the list and how they were displayed against the windows on shelves 11(?)ft high. when the food came out it was absolutely the most amazing presentation I had seen in a long time. it tasted pretty good too. I don't eat any seafood except fish so I didn't taste my partner's dish but she said it was amazing. We sat and talked for a while and asked for the bill and the bartender apologized that the meal "took so long to arrive"...what?... it was rather confusing because it didn't even feel like 5 minutes. I don't think we waited long at all. the bill wasn't even $50 with tax and I'm sorry if you're reading this I just noticed on my receipt I wanted to tip you $15 and not $5. I'll take care of you next time which will be very soon because I love this place now. I just wish Milwaukee didn't screw up all the parking with that electric street car... we were able to find parking quickly a block away even though our first spot was stolen 🤣

I’ve been to Blue Bat several times and realized it’s long overdue for a review. I had dinner there recently on a random Tuesday with a good buddy, and it reminded me why I keep coming back. The vibe and decor are on point—relaxed and nice. Our server, Kirkland, was polite and attentive, making the experience even better. The tuna poke nachos are my go-to starter—great presentation and even better flavor. And the house margaritas are always a hit. Blue Bat is a great spot in Milwaukee’s Third Ward worth checking out.

Really enjoyed our meal here when visiting Milwaukee. We got two appetizers and two mains to share, and were very impressed by the Poké Nachos which were simple, but fresh and so delicious! We even considered getting a 2nd portion as "dessert" but were too full up by the end of the meal. We're hoping to try and recreate them at home here in Denmark, but are not quite sure what exactly the chips were (fried flour tortillas, wonton wrappers?). Maybe you can be of assistance? If we ever get the chance to stop by again, we for sure will. Although, visiting in October it was too cold to sit outside but the surroundings are quite stunning by the waterside, and we enjoyed a beautiful sunset.

Passing by Milwaukee and needed a quick lunch and stumbled upon Blue Bat which had a nice patio with river view. It was a beautiful day, temperature was a bit high so opted to sit inside. Skylar the host was so helpful she greeted us cheerfully and showed us the back way to get inside Blue Bat with a wheelchair user. We loved the decors, the drinks and the food. Service was great as well. Wouldn't hesitate to go back for a formal meal.

The food is kind of hit or miss here. Some pretty yummy and some not so much. As someone who has been in the service industry for a really long time and works in fine dining in Milwaukee this place has so much potential to be great!! The atmosphere is great. Inside and out. The staff is welcoming and friendly. Service (especially on the patio) can be rough. I've been to BlueBat 6 separate times and have had one positive service experience. Don't sit outside if you want somewhat fast service. It takes a long time for just drinks even when it's slow. And, I tend to give way more lee-way to service because I understand how things can get backed up and that sometimes places are understaffed. I will still come here for the items I know are good and they always make me a great spicy Paloma!!

Good food, great staff, and chill vibe.. swing by if your in the area and ask for recommendations they team here is super helpful and totally make it worth a trip... plus I think they have every tequila on earth. Sit back and enjoy the ride!!

First time at this restaurant. I ordered guacamole and chips to share. Chips were fried and very greasy. I also ordered the Mojo Pork which had a terrible presentation and looked disgusting. I couldn’t even eat half of the meal.

Stopped in for drinks and an app. The margaritas were good for the price and the White Cheddar Fundido was delicious. We sat outside and had a great view of the river. Our server was great and made sure to check in on us.

Came here with some friends and had a solid night! I got the house margarita with mango which was really good and flavorful. Definitely the highlight of the night! I went with the Hot Honey Bao as a bowl. It was good overall, but I was hoping for a bit more flavor or more veggies! They've got a few vegetarian options, which is always a plus. I'd definitely come back to try their other handhelds or drinks :-)

It's been awhile since we last popped into Blue Bat, but we were near by before a dinner rez down the road and thought we'd grab a refreshing drink. I've always been a fan of their margs because they're not too sweet, like so many others around town. It was a Monday night and not too busy, but service was still on the slower side. Nonetheless, the staff we're all friendly. We narrowly missed happy hour unfortunately so my husband's mezcalita was $14 instead of $10, since it's not on the regular menu. Little steep imo, but he enjoyed it! They use ancho reyes chili liqueur and jalapeno simple to add the heat. Oh and it's served in a pretty glass. I went for the the house marg and made it spicy - super tasty but almost wish there was more heat. All in all, this spot doesn't disappoint on food, drinks, or river views. We both noted how it's been too long since we've been here for dinner (and our fave tuna poke nachos app), so I'm sure we'll make our way back soon enough!

Loved the vibe and ambiance of this place! It's super cute and perfect for the summer! I was pleasantly surprised with the tandoori chicken and steak tacos! Both were delicious and pretty filling, especially with the rice and beans! The views are amazing, the staff was super friendly, and I love the decor/location! Drinks were good.

Great spot on the river. Loved the vibe. Sat at the bar, the bartender was personable and knowledgeable about their offerings. They have a huge selection of tequila and mezcal. Drinks were great and I had Steak Frites. Steak was cooked well and the chimichurri put it over the top. Definitely recommend everyone check this place out.

Stopped in for lunch with a friend and sure glad we did. Very friendly staff seated us outside with no wait for a Saturday. Inside was very spacious and vibrant. I ordered the house margarita and it was very refreshing. The short rib bowl also delivered. You have the option to make them tacos too. The side peppers had a bit of spice to them while the short rib was sweet and smoky with depths of flavor. The cauliflower brought a nice cleanse to the dish. Can't forget the river views being outside!

I've been to Blue Bat twice--once for lunch and once for dinner. The food is good but nothing particularly memorable. My friends enjoy this place more than I do- they love the fried foods and sauces. What really stands out for me is the atmosphere: the space is large, bright, and perfect for accommodating bigger groups. The staff is friendly, and the location is great--right by the water and close to everything in the Third Ward. Just be prepared for a bit of a parking challenge during peak hours.

This place was such a vibe! It gives off "upscale Mexican food", and the flavors lived up to that! If you go during happy hour, I was SHOCKED at the value! Spicy margarita + steak bowl were great. Get the chips and salsa, both are homemade and 10/10!! Staff was very friendly and the food came out SO fast! I would recommend a reservation! There's outside seating, and, oh, margarita flights are available!!

Bright and spacious inside, and spectacular views with plenty of seating outside along the river. Two of us were seated outside promptly without a reservation on a weeknight after work. Unfortunately the service and both of our meals + appetizer were just mediocre, and we had to go inside to find our server to pay the bill. Would love to return if these subtle improvements were made.

After a few disappointing visits the last few years, we thought we'd try again to see if there was improvement. We sadly confirmed another disappointment, with oxidized guacamole and woefully undercooked chicken that was dismissed when we brought it to the server's attention. We ordered the hot honey bao chicken bowl (which came out deconstructed onto a plate surprisingly) and the thai peanut salad, with a side of the bag chips with salsa and guac. The guac, although decently tasty, had some mystery dark spots in it. The thai peanut salad was zesty and very appropriately dressed, it was delicious but lacked substance since there were only leaves and a dusting of quinoa. The bao chicken was the worst offender, we told the server it looked like the chicken was still raw, and they told us that chicken thigh is supposed to be pink still. Ours was pink, rubbery, and definitely still raw. The sauteed veggies on the plate were unappetizing and almost inedible. We paid and left, don't think we'll be back.

Two stars: one for the location on the river, the other for our excellent waitress. Our party of 8 arrived early Sunday afternoon, and the two hostesses seemed completely flummoxed as to what to do with us. The manager joined them and seemed equally perplexed. Who knew a restaurant could be stymied by 8 guests in a nearly empty room? Menu items--all a la carte--were overpriced for the value. Our starters did not arrive before the main course arrived, so we returned them and were not charged for those. Cajun (rubbery) shrimp was swimming in oil. This is probably a good place for drinks & nibbles at the bar or on the patio while enjoying the nice view.

Fun Tequilaria in the 3rd Ward on the River. We stopped by for drinks and an app. We sat outside on the patio. Service can be hit or miss but it was a great day so we didn't mind waiting. I love their margs because they aren't made with pre-made sour mix. They use fresh lime and it makes a difference. I added jalepeno and tajin rim to mine. Really fresh! We split and order of the Bao Buns which has hot honey chicken with a great broccoli slaw. The chicken was crispy and a perfect app to share. Can't wait to go back!

Really fun spot to have lunch with a friend! Very flavorful and creative food! I liked it here!

These Americanized tacos were fire !! I have nothing but good things to say about the meal itself. I was sooo full by the second taco but sure enough cleared the plate it was THAT good. My back was way too big after. Anyways- the restaurant is cute but the layout is interesting... i would recommend requesting a seat next to windows/ lighting bc some table are like hidden around corners and don't get much light at all. The service was sooooooo great. Our server accommodated us so well and even offered us her jacket when we had mentioned that it was getting chilly. Such a queen!! Overall it's a solid choice and i would come back again, not the mention the view.. are you joking !! So cute !

Brussels sprouts!!! Best item in my opinion. I could have multiple servings. Had their brunch for the first time. Delicious. Would go back again. The food is Good, not amazing (reason for 4 stars). Service was great - Anthony was super personal and great. Sat outside and the way the building is, provides ample amounts of shade. Great spot.

The food is very delicious. Just know you have to order the tapas that you like instead of getting 3. The service is fast and efficient. The drinks are delicious. It's a tequila bar so they have so many different brands. The ambiance is amazing. They have two bars one upstairs and down. Also you can eat outside on the patio overlooking the Milwaukee river.

Have had decent food and service here before. Waited for one hour and fifteen minutes for food, with little updates. Ended up canceling food and go elsewhere. Ended up paying for the drinks and no concessions made by business for inconvenience. Seating outside is nice when the sun is shining. Previously had the cauliflower steak which was good. This time got to just have a jalapeño margarita. Will have to question whether we return again.

BLUE BAT KITCHEN: A HAIKU oodles of noodles, crispy, spicy, playful - sensory delight! *vegetarian friendly

We went to Blue Bat for a light lunch ahead of an afternoon downtown. We love this place! The white cheddar fundido appetizer is always a win. My wife loves the bao buns and I enjoyed the carne asada tacos. Service was prompt and attentive. The restaurant is clean and the atmosphere light. We love coming here when we're downtown. Thanks for a delicious meal!

I came here with a large group this summer. We ordered a ton of stuff for our group of about 15. Our server and the staff overall were really great and working extremely hard. The food is ok, not amazing, but works very well for a large group. The menu is a little all over the place conceptually. We had many pitchers of margaritas and those were a great deal and a big hit. I wouldn't make a special trip for this restaurant, but if you have a big group and you're looking for affordable food and drinks, it's a great option.

Walking into this place I was positively eager to get eating, our server was kind and humble, our seating was a bit small but comfy. I myself ordered the poke nachos; which were great; a mango-Rita with a tajin rim; super tasty. Now when it came to the tacos I was disappointed, the aïoli was to sweet when you mixed the slaw and that sauce together it became way to sweet; it tasted like watered down mayo with sugar added. My opinion; if you're going to call it the Baja add some flavor to it, blend some Serrano into that aioli and some cilantro. It'll make a big difference.and the biggest issue I had; the damn flour tortillas.... Maize tortillas please, those flour tortillas gave the tacos the most gruesome texture I've ever tried. Other than that I had a great time

Stopped in for happy hour. Had the happy hour margarita ($2 off Reg price). It was very refreshing. Started with the bag of chips and salsa. At first when it came I thought there won't be enough chips to go thru the two salsas (mango and tomato) + guacamole. But I was wrong. The chips were warm and whatever seasoning they put in them was perfect. My aunt dug into the mango salsa and I liked the tomato. Neither one was spicy. The guac was fresh. We also then decided to split the Carme asada tacos- 3 to an order. I regretted splitting them as they were delicious! The beef was so very tender. Service was good. At first glance at the menu I was aurpriaed at the variety of the dishes and not very Mexican - then taking a closer look it said it was global food which made cleared that up. Beautiful view of the water as well.

Good was amazing! Sad I didn't get to take any photos but highly recommend checking out. Everything I ordered was so fresh and plated so nicely. Gentleman who served us might have also been the bartender was extremely nice and attentive. Must try spot!

Yes I absolutely loved the food and the service I received. I will be willing to go and enjoy myself again.

Outstanding food! I love the poke nachos and the atmosphere by the river. Great service too

We went here's for Mother's Day brunch and oh boy it was a great choice. The staff was amazing and very friendly. They will take any modification and are as nice as hotel staff. They even laughed at my grandparents jokes. I got the bao bun chicken and wow was that good. The restaurant looks out on the river so it leads for a nice view. Outside there is some structure that kids will love to play on. The place is very modern and I would suggest it to anyone.

Amazing food, drinks and atmosphere! There are a variety of delicious items, I had the hot honey bao bowl and the flavors went together so perfectly. I cannot wait to come back!

This place looks so fun and if you'd like tequila, this is where you need to be. It was too early for me to have a drink, but I went in and checked it out anyway and it was unbelievable. The two ladies that were working there today. Friendly and awesome. The view is amazing. They have a downstairs which pitching right by the river. I WOULD RECOMMEND

Service was amazing. Our waitress was really friendly and attentive. I got the guava refresher and added a shot and it was delicious! 10/10 experience especially for a New Year's Eve night. Will come again.

Great vibe...but the food needs work! I ordered the Pork Mojo which was absolutely horrible. The pork was so dry it was inedible.

Yummy food and great drinks! I'm not a huge fan of their menu change and branching away from traditional Mexican food but can't complain. I also love how clean and bright it always is in Blue Bat.

Incredible Food and Excellent Service! Scott was very accommodating for a reservation for our large group. The bartender, Blake, was super knowledgeable about the Tequila. Grace, our server, was excellent and nailed it with everything we ordered and brought out things very timely!

Food was wonderful and flavorful. Server was very knowledgeable and really nice. She kept coming and checking on us. We love the place and would definitely recommend it.

Came for happy hour with a big group also had a lot of people coming and going and our waitress was great I know we couldn't have been an easy table to deal with. so the service was top notch. Great location to eat and drink being on the river we had great views and the weather was nice so the patio was very enjoyable. My marg was tasty and reasonably price. Blue Bat is worth a try and worth coming back to.

Food? Check. Drinks. Check. Art? Check. Servers? Check. Blue Bat checks all the boxes! The tacos were so enjoyable and each had their own unique flavor. I particularly liked the Bao Mi taco and the Baja. The battered cod was just a little crispy on the outside but still juicy on the inside (my favorite). The No Bali Hai cocktail was sweet with a tropical flavor. Our server (Joe) was very kind and knew the menu well. He gave us sincere opinions on the food. If I lived in Milwaukee, I'd be eating here fairly often!

We came in for downtown dining week and subsequently didn't order from the downtown dining menu haha. We made a reservation and we're seated promptly on the river walk. We ordered Brussels, chips and all dips as apps. Chimichurri salad and tuna poke for meals. We were quite shocked when the entrees were delivered to our table first...followed by the apps. The kitchen just didn't time the courses well, and considering how tiny the tables are outside, we shouldn't have been served all courses at once. It seems they were having timing issues all night though bc a table next to us got their desert first, and they completely forgot their handhelds. The food however was terrific, especially the chips and Brussels. Would highly recommend the food. The service was decent re:refills and such, but do think they need to work on timing and coursing

Admittedly, I'm a bit biased because this a one of my go-to's in the city, but well deserved. Their food has been consistent for years. Personal favs: Cajun shrimp, Baja fish and Fried Green tomato tacos; White cheddar fundido, brussel sprouts and Mexican corn. Their margarita pitcher options are great (plus cost effective) and the servers are always knowledgeable in providing menu recommendations, as it changes seasonally. This is the perfect casual food and drinks spot for happy hour, dinner & drinks or even brunch (especially in the warmer months, due to their outside patio on the river)!

Had the most amazing meal! Our server, Jackie, was so attentive and did not rush us! She told us about all of the deals and fun menu items. We loved her Marquette spirit and she was a delight to have as our server!

This place is so good. I had birria, Carne asada and shrimp taco salsa and cucumber jam margarita sat on the sunny patio by the river. Service was slow but worth it. This was not the third ward location.

We made late dinner reservations after my family landed from out of town. Blue Bat was waking distance from their hotel and it was such a beautiful night we sat outside. Chase (I'm pretty sure??!!) was our server and he was excellent. We shared some appetizers and had drinks. The Brussel sprouts were incredible. We also ordered a few tacos (not pictured) and the fish taco was my favorite. Don't sleep on Blue Bat if you're in the area-- excellent food and 100+ tequilas! Sit outside when you can, right on the water.

Delicious food, amazing service, and a great patio! Will definitely come back for the poke nachos!

Very good food, tuna nachos, steak tacos and shrimp tacos. If you like tequila and mezcal this is the place to go! Service was a little slow and we were the only ones sitting inside. Maybe that is why? All the food was very good. A little pricy for lunch. $108.00 before tip. We both had a cocktail.

We last minute decided to get dinner at Blue Bat. There was a 30 minute wait but thankfully they have a texting service to let you know when your table is ready. We got to enjoy the Milwaukee River as waited for a table! We were lucky enough to sit outside on a nice night. Our server, Anthony, was super friendly and greeted us and asked if it was our first time. We were all out of towners so he gave us a rundown of the place. We started with a bag of chips and all the dips. It came with 2 salsas and quacamole. The mango salsa had a good little kick and the guacamole was yummy! The chips had a signature seasoning and were delish. Anthony came back and made some suggestions from the menu and asked if we were ready to order. Because of him, I decided to change of my tacos to the Mediterranean Chicken and dang, I am so glad I did. That taco was delicioussss. I want more. I also tried the Mezcal Steak taco which was good but I was craving some cheese on it! I also tried out the house margarita with tahin on the rim! Tasty and thought it was perfectly strong. One of my friends tacos was missed when entering our order, but Anthony got it quickly made and brought it out! Everyone else also enjoyed their meal! We waved at the boats that passed and enjoyed the nice cool weather. Thanks to Anthony for serving us and being awesome!

We were in town for a family friend's wedding, so swing by here before flying out. The service was wonderful, and the food was pretty good. Portions were enormous, and I think my only complaint would be that a lot of their tacos relied on this same creamy chipotle sauce, so it felt a bit much by the end of the meal. The chips served with the quest were fresh, and seasoned perfectly, so we would definitely get that again! They have nice seating right by the river, and while we didn't try any, their drink menu looked great.

Food. Drink. Atmosphere. Service. ALL knocked it out of the park. I was in MKE for a quick trip and happened upon the Blue Bat while walking along the river. At first, we - we being me and the symphony of smiles I call my girlfriend - stopped just as a break from walking; we were suited and dressed up, after all, and it was a warm evening. Then we decided, maybe let's sit for a drink. Unfortunately, riverside tables were going to be a wait, but the bar was open and our tropical shirted bartender gave great recommendations (the smoky Blood Orange Fizz was pretty darn tasty). Then double unfortunately, after chumming it up with the barkeep, our table was ready! But we'd actually decided we were going to eat. Tacos, tacos, tacos. All good. All great. Get'em. A week or so after I went here, my chiropractor asked how the trip was. Of course I mentioned the Blue Bat. A few weeks after that, he thanked me for the recommendation, said it was the best margarita he'd had in a long time. So there you have it, trusted by medical professionals everywhere!

My husband and I had a date night at Blue bad kitchen and Taquilaria. That inside seating as well as outdoor seating along the river. We waited for an outdoor seat, as the sun was setting and it was a beautiful summer day (as the inside of the restaurant smelled a little funky). It was fun to watch the boats go by while eating. We had guacamole, drinks and tacos! Everything was delicious. Service was good but not great, and be prepared to wait a bit... Overall, definitely worth a try. Added plus: After we ate we walked along the river walk. What a fantastic spot!

Loved the along the River dining experience at Blue Bat Kitchen & Tequilaria. Located in the popular third ward in Milwaukee this is a great spot for dining with friends, girls nights, brunches, and happy hours. They have a great menu selection and on weekends they have global brunch menu that ends at 3 pm. Love that the menu choices are diverse and there is something for everyone. The service is a 10/10. Our server was awesome and made great recommendations. Food was delicious. Everything we ordered was incredible and portion size was great. We started with the fried Brussels sprouts and bag o chips. The bag o chips were super addicting and likes all the dips that came with. The Brussels sprouts were also well seasoned and crispy. Next we got the coconut red curry, chimichurri chicken salad, and Mediterranean chicken. The red curry was bursting with flavors, it was so good. The salad was fresh and the chimichuri chicken add just the right kick to it. The Mediterranean chicken as also tasty and a must try . Overall we had a wonderful dining experience and cannot wait to go back.

Had the hand held (tacos) steak, mushroom, fried green tomato. Food was great, service great, nice environment. Highly recommend. Good prices.

We liked the river view, the outdoor patio & the service here. The food was just ok - pretty expensive for tacos but that's the third ward price that you should expect before going. We enjoyed the sticky pork belly taco a lot. The Cajun and the Shawarma ones were good but nothing really outstanding compared to those from other Mexican fusion restaurants. The fried brussel sprouts are worthing getting for sharing - the crunchy pecans, the sweet and sour dried mango and the sauce all add to the flavors. The KFC was a disaster - tasted not flavorful and the meat was hard - not recommend it.