Milwaukee Ale House | Milwaukee

Milwaukee Ale House – In Detail

Milwaukee Ale House is a brewpub that originally gained popularity in downtown Milwaukee and now continues its operations in Grafton, Wisconsin. It has a long-standing legacy tied to the city’s brewing culture and riverfront dining scene.

1. Original Location – Milwaukee (Historic Third Ward)

Status: Permanently Closed (since 2022)

Opened: October 1997

Address: 233 N. Water Street, Milwaukee, WI 53202

Location: Right on the Milwaukee River, in the Historic Third Ward - a revitalized warehouse district known for dining, boutiques, and art galleries.

Setting:

Beautiful riverside patio with boat parking.

Large windows and open interior design giving views of the river and city.

Two floors, often with live music events on the weekends.

Atmosphere: Urban, lively, yet casual. A favorite spot for happy hour, date nights, and weekend brunch.

Closure Reason: The lease was not renewed in 2022 after 25 years of operation. Despite public disappointment, the owners decided to focus on the Grafton location.

2. Current Location – Grafton, Wisconsin

Address: 1208 13th Avenue, Grafton, WI 53024
Phone: (262) 375-2337
Status: Open and active
Setting:

A quieter riverside setting along the Milwaukee River.

The building is more modern and spacious compared to the original.

Features outdoor seating with river views and a private upstairs dining area.

Operating Hours:

Monday–Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Friday–Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Sunday: Closed

3. Menu Overview

The menu is broad and fits a wide variety of tastes, offering both pub-style and more elevated American dishes.

Appetizers & Shareables:

Beer-Battered Cheese Curds (local favorite)

Giant Bavarian Pretzel with Ale Cheese Dip

Ale House Nachos with jalapeños and pulled pork

Chicken Wings (various sauces)

Bruschetta and Spinach-Artichoke Dip

Salads:

Pecan-Crusted Chicken Salad

Salmon Avocado Salad

Classic Caesar

Southwest BBQ Chicken Salad

Burgers & Sandwiches:

Ale House Burger (signature, customizable)

“Da Bomb” Burger (with onion ring, cheese, BBQ sauce)

Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich

Beer-Braised Brisket Sandwich

Main Entrées:

Cedar Plank Salmon

Beef Burgundy over mashed potatoes

Jambalaya Mac (Cajun-style with Andouille sausage)

Friday Fish Fry (a Wisconsin tradition)

Tacos: Fish, Chicken, or Shrimp

Flatbreads:

Margherita

Mushroom Truffle

Spicy BLT

Greek with feta and Kalamata olives

4. Beer & Brewing

Originally brewed onsite under Milwaukee Brewing Company.

Now features a wide selection of local craft beers and rotating seasonal brews.

Popular brews:

Louie’s Demise – a balanced amber ale, flagship brew

Hop Happy IPA – bold and hoppy

Outboard Cream Ale – smooth and light

Weekend @ Louie’s – fruity ale with cherry and cranberry

Beer Flights are available to sample multiple styles. Seasonal and limited brews change throughout the year.

5. Events & Private Dining

The Grafton location offers a private event space on the second floor.

Suited for weddings, rehearsal dinners, company events, birthdays.

Event coordinator available to customize menus and space layout.

Indoor space can be paired with riverside views for a scenic experience.

6. Atmosphere & Design

Rustic-industrial interior design with wood accents and beer memorabilia.

Open, welcoming layout ideal for group gatherings or casual meals.

Friendly service with knowledgeable staff about food and beer pairings.

TVs for sports events but not an overwhelming “sports bar” vibe.

7. Local Impact

The original Milwaukee location was a community hub for live music, especially jazz and blues, supporting local performers.

Their beers were part of the Milwaukee Brewing Company’s rise to prominence before its expansion and later acquisition.

The Grafton location retains that community-first feel in a more relaxed, suburban setting.

Summary:
Milwaukee Ale House began as a cornerstone of Milwaukee’s beer and dining scene in the Historic Third Ward. Though the original location has closed, its spirit and menu live on in Grafton, where patrons can still enjoy handcrafted ales, comforting pub fare, and beautiful riverfront views in a more peaceful, family-friendly environment.