Balistreri's Bluemound Inn

Unpretentious pizza & a killer patio

If you haven't heard of Balistreri's Bluemound Inn, that's probably because it isn't really near anything cool. It's not downtown and it's not in the Tosa village — it's in the middle, on Bluemound Road next to a McDonald's. But the interior is warm and cozy with a sunken bar, comfortable vibe, and artwork of Italian street scenes, like from Home Goods. But first, the patio! This is what you'll see when you walk up:

How kitschy-wonderful magic-town is that? The Bluemound Inn patio was actually named one of Milwaukee's best patios in 2013 by the Journal Sentinel, and I love that they keep it in tip-top eye-popping shape even in winter. I can't wait to try it out this summer!

Moving back inside, the ambiance and menu at Bluemound Inn are simultaneously special-occasion nice and snug like Grandma's house. At least that's how it makes me feel. The menu is mostly Italian comfort food, with that signature Balistreri's thin crust pizza in the starring role. And the fried eggplant — always the fried eggplant.

The aforementioned sunken bar? It's too cool. And you can choose to sit there instead of a table, which would definitely be fun for a party of two. Personally, aside from missing out on the awesome patio seating, I think Bluemound Inn has got to be one of Milwaukee's best wintry dining options. It's just so unique, and if ever a restaurant felt and tasted like a big hug, Bluemound Inn is it.