Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge in Milwaukee

Bryant’s is Milwaukee’s oldest cocktail lounge. Around since 1938, this classic lounge has décor straight out of the 1970s. It is located in a house at 1579 S. 9^th St. Open six days a week 5 p.m.–2 a.m., this bar is a first-come, first-serve kind of place, so don’t expect to make reservations.

The drink selection is extensive, but it is just drinks. One of the best features of Bryant’s is you can come in thirsty, but without any sense of what you want to drink. The servers at Bryant’s are experts and all you have to do is describe your mood and/or general preference in alcohol and they will have options for you to choose from. If this way of ordering doesn’t work for you, there is also a menu.

Be sure to review the cocktail lounge etiquette section of the website before going because they will adhere to these guidelines closely. No outside food or beverages are allowed on the premises. This may seem like a lot of complicated rules, but it is worth it. The vibe is friendly, but serious.

Some of the drink highlights include the Navy Grog, which comes in its very own skull mug, and the 99 Tears. Hopefully, this unique experience will only bring you tears of joy.