Bryant's Cocktail Lounge

"Open for: Weekday nights until late, weekend afternoons until even laterPrice range: $$Bar owner John Dye has cornered the city’s market on cocktail lounge vibes: from the East Side’s jazzy Estate to Bay View’s At Random, you have multiple opportunities to be ensconced in dark hues, rich pours, and velvety-booth Rat Pack aesthetics. The only thing missing is cigarette smoke. But Bryant’s remains the flagship, a destination-worthy corner joint since 1938 that claims to be Milwaukee’s oldest cocktail lounge. The bustling menu-less spot was just named a James Beard semifinalist for Outstanding Bar, but somehow, the place feels too cool to care. Know before you go: To walk in here is to enter a committed relationship with a bartender. Be open to the possibilities." - Todd Lazarski

"Historic bars where the idea is to approach the bar and talk to the bartender for a tailored cocktail."

"For 'fancy cocktails,' he recommends Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge, Milwaukee’s oldest of its kind since 1938." - Marguerite Imbert

"A vintage experience through and through, Bryant’s is Milwaukee’s oldest bar. Since 1938, guests have imbibed a countless number of unique and classic cocktails. There are more than 450 drinks available but instead of a menu, the knowledgeable bartenders help suggest something suited for each individual’s palate." - Jeffy Mai