Love this place. Stopped again on a pub pass mission and stayed for the atmosphere. Love the local artwork and the mystery beers. Grab a board game and stay awhile! If you're lucky, your bartender will get naked for you. ;) read more

Art Bar - Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Perfect black for a nightcap after black husky (which closes at 9). Brought the doggies out for a night and this was one of the dog friendly places we stopped. They have a great menu of mixed drinks, and the bartender was so sweet! Also the patrons here were just chill and friendly. Pup got all the pets :) I got a cosmo margarita which was ahhmazing (also supersize for $12...thought it was a good deal). Inside was very hot and loud so we did end up going outside to brave the 40's. We will be back! read more

Wonderland is amazing! The food is always excellent, and their service matches! I love the ambience, and the incredible friendliness of the white staff! read more

Always a chill time at Art bar. Bonus points when it's their special tiny art show in the winter. This is for sure a dog bar, always a pupper around outside. Maybe even chilling in side. They have fun specials most days and good prices. Usually 2 bartenders sometimes 3. Some days there's a long line but it's a nice organized line now (COVID changes) so it's nice not having to fight for the bartenders attention around their island style bar. They serve some pizza and other things. Ive only gotten the pizza. Outside seating is plentiful and inside they've got a pool table. Love there's always new locals art to look at there. Probably one of my favorite bars in the area. read more

I can't think of anything I don't love about Art Bar. It's a fantastic little space and a neighborhood gem. If I could give it 4.5 stars I would. - Awesome selection at the bar - Local music sometimes - Rotating art - Patio seating - Games and pin ball - Dog friendly - Neighborhoody vibe sometimes, not always - Somewhat diverse crowd Side note: I went by the Art Bar on a Sat morning recently and was sad to learn that they changed their hours and no longer serve coffee or screwdrivers until later in the day. read more

First thing that threw me off was that there were dogs here. This is one of the few dog friendly bars I know exist. Definitely a cool idea. They had a great B1G1 deal on all drinks and the coffee/hot drinks come in HUGE cups! They've got pinball machines, darts, and a pool table. They've also got a wide range fof board games for you to play at your table. Only complaint is the Sopranos machine has a safe feature which was broken and took away from the gameplay. read more

Love this bar. Dog friendly. They change out their gallery regularly. Friendly for all ages. Theres always a good diverse crowd when I go. Drinks are great. Some food is available. Games. Outdoor seating. Check it out read more

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I came here years ago when a cousin was getting married across the street and loved the idea of a mixed use space. This space is a coffee shop, bar, art gallery, music venue, and restaurant wrapped into one. When I visited recently I was happy to see so many people turn out to see bands from Chicago that have members from Milwaukee. Usually the two cities have a rivalry, but this was not on display on the night I saw the Milwaukee and Chicago family working together. I also love a bar that when the lead singer's mike is too low, I can just go and tell the singer to sound check it and turn it up mid set. I used to be a sound assistant at Velvet Sky studios on Center Street, so, um, yeah, I know that 8 is just right and 3 is too low for a vocal level. The lights in the front could do a better job of being placed so that bands that play have adequate light coverage. Also, I bet it is hard to read here when it is not sunny out and you are sitting in the back. Dimmers man, dimmers! Excellent fun place. The bathroom for men is not so hot. Really too public for me so when that door is swinging open look out! read more

Art Bar - One Hour Naps @ Wisconsin-Illinois show. - Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

I absolutely loveddd this little coffee shop/ bar. So cute and artsy! The coffee menu wasn't extensive or spectacular, but it's the ambience that makes its mark! The walls have various artwork on display and can be bought- a great way to display the work of local artists. read more

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Don has done a wonderful job creating, maintaining, running this incredible bar. It has always been cutting edge, enjoyable and all around classy place to relax and enjoy! Dave Jacob/John Kannenberg read more

An interesting and diverse place with excellent service! The food was great the first go around I am tend to go back to try more! I might even finish some artwork read more

Err ma Gerrd, Ert Berr! Art Bar is solid. Sure, you'll have your few youngin's hangin' about, bustlin' & chuckln' & carryin' on. Yeah, they'll have odd hair & a number of head accessories. But how does that affect you, really? Besides, I've noticed quite a spread in age range just about every time I've stopped by for a few drinks, or for a pizza with a few drinks. They have pretty decent frozen pizzas. And since they cook 'em behind the bar, you'll get mad cravings as the smells waft about. You'll find lots of beer choices, too. But no taps. There are lots of tables. Inside and outside. So there's that. It's fun to wander around with a drink and check out the new art. It changes more often than just about anywhere, as far as I've noticed. They also often have assorted events. I've scampered in during open mic stand-up comedy, or during live painting, or while bands were doing their band work, which is playing music. And being cool. This place is incredibly close to home, so my visits are typically late at night, on my way home. You can take that pizza home with you, if you like. Frozen or unfrozen. I tell ya, that sounds like a damned good suggestion when you are sitting at Foundation a few Mai Tai's deep and smell their pizza. Foundation has good frozen pizza, but if I wait for it to cook, I'll have to drink more Tiki drinks. Out of respect for the Tiki gods. Then I'll certainly burn my mouth because I will have lost all self control. But this isn't about Foundation's amazing drinks and exceptional frozen pizza offerings. This is about Art Bar. It's dog friendly. And there are often dogs sampling treats from the welcoming bartenders. The men's bathroom consistently offers male visitors a horrific smell. The same smell. Consistently. If you like art & dogs & beer & specialty drinks & coloring & having things to play with & pinball & pool & live entertainment & tables & pizza, you'll probably like Art Bar. Feel free to draw. No one will judge. And it's fun. read more

It would be hard to write this review without using the word, "eclectic". Fun atmosphere. Fun crowd. Great drink list. And for those of you who don't imbibe they have non-alcoholic drinks. Great place to just hang out with friends. read more

BOGO happy hour until 7pm, 6 days a week Art Bar is my favorite RiverWest bar; love the friendly atmosphere, fantastic art by local artists and pool, darts, pinball and board games to boot! Our fav spot to spread our for hours of playing Game of Thrones read more

Art Bar - Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Can I just say how much I love the paint-by-numbers wall? It is my favorite thing. Best table in the joint. I really like the atmosphere here. You can drink upstairs and be all conversationy with your friends, or you can sit downstairs and get rad. Bartenders are pretty good, and who can say no to a mystery beer every now and then? APPROVE. read more

I have been avoiding writing a review of this place for months, for one reason in particular: Art Bar is such a hidden gem -- so unique and comfortable and warm and welcoming, with great happy hour specials (buy one/get one 3:00 - 7:00 pm, Monday-Saturday), excellent Bloody Mary recipe, Colectivo coffee, the BEST Green Bay Packers game-day parties (not hyperbole; the very best), among many other things... Art Bar is such a favorite of mine that I'm afraid it will no longer feel like "my spot" as more and more people come to realize how truly awesome Art Bar is. But that would be an injustice to all Riverwest and Milwaukee residents. In short, Art Bar is a place you need to experience. Local art covers the walls. The craft beer list is unparalleled. Live shows are always a blast. They host themed parties all the time, which are super fun (a recent David Bowie dance party comes to mind). The bartenders and owner are knowledgeable, friendly and just all-around good people. There are bingo nights as well, with hilarious, fun prizes. You can play Twister and board games and pool. They have coloring contests; that's right, coloring contests. I used to avoid the bar scene during Packers games because the thought of sitting elbow to elbow in a raucous, uncomfortable public place was the opposite of appealing. I'd rather eat, drink and celebrate with a handful of good friends than a bunch of loud, obnoxious strangers getting black out drunk. Well, Art Bar changed all that. They serve free food during every game. Not just free, but really good food -- taco/nacho bar, brats and hamburgers, chili, and hot ham sandwiches, to name a few. Buffet style. The seating is comfortable and casual, more like a café or cinema grill than an overcrowded bar where everyone is usually forced to stand. They turn up the radio announcers, which adds to the excitement of the game. Free touchdown shots. Bloody Marys on special. It's not just a great opportunity to watch the game, but also to hangout and catch up with friends. If you're not sold yet, they also allow dogs. It's not rare to see dogs chilling on stools at the bar, hovering under tables, or just trotting around looking for attention. Heck, my English chocolate lab Maggie is almost more of a regular than I am. I feel as if I should spend more time on this review, try to be more thoughtful and insightful regarding how much this place brings me joy. But truth is, nothing I write will do Art Bar justice. You know that comfortable, "home" feeling you get as an adult when you return to visit your parents, mom and dad make dinner, spoil you like your a kid again, and you get to stay in your old room? That's Art Bar. It's not super fancy or over the top; it just feels like home. read more

I don't like bars. Hate them. But the cozy atmosphere and new exhibits every few weeks make this one of my favorite places. One of the reasons I moved to Riverwest. Reasonably priced drinks, delicious cocktails, dogs to pet, friendly bartenders who all have great, unique taste in music. read more

They have cool decor. They have entertaining entertainment. They have a pool table. There are two pinball machines. I like pinball. You can draw your drink for a chance to win $100 in drinks. They serve pizza. The prices are a tad high, but reasonable for such a nice place. I dig it, and I will be back now that I know it's awesome-ish. read more

Art Bar - You may our may not need one of these, conveniently located on your way out. - Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Riverwest- A very unsuspecting neighborhood to find one of my favorite mojitos in all of the city. But it's true! The super friendly bartenders at Art bar craft the loveliest of watermelon mojitos. So refreshing, so boozy, AND it comes with a nice wedge of watermelon to snack on. Bonus! It's a seasonal beverage, what with watermelons not always being in season and all....so you must try before the end of summer (or what we are calling summer these days). The mojito is just the tip of the iceberg to this RW establishment. In my humble opinion, it's the perfect place to take a date. Art bar has a comfortable/chill vibe with so many things to keep you entertained! Peruse the local art on the walls, listen to some live music, get a really, REALLY great frozen pizza- I don't know how they do it, but their frozen pizzas just taste better. For realz! Did I mention games? Pick from their large collection of board games, pool, pin ball machines and you have enough ammo for hours and hours of fun. My personal fav is truth or dare Jenga . You might get to steal a smooch from your date. *Wink* Go forth and drink & play my friends! *Double bonus: Art Bar is crazy dog friendly. Bring your puppies to join in the fun! read more

Today our bartender has the worst attitude. She acts like the customers are a nuisance.

Drinks were good. Rude bartenders who play 8 Taylor swift songs in a row will make me not come back. Bartender was playing crossword puzzles the entire time and was very obviously unhappy to be here. Cool bar, needs better service. Maybe hire people who actually care about their job. read more

This place is great. I've interacted with two bartenders on two occasions and they were both quite nice. They serve economical hot tea alongside an excellent craft beer selection. There is beauty all over the walls with happy people and puppies everywhere. Not sure if they ever charge cover, but on arriving with 45 minutes left in the live set, there was none. I'm not writing anymore, just go. read more

A busy late summer has kept me from venturing to many Yelp-worthy locations, so I knew I wanted to go somewhere worthwhile to break this trend. Art Bar was certainly that place. Pros: -Well, there's art (obviously), including artists in action. Definitely one of the more visually appealing bars I've been to lately. -Super friendly, laid-back staff. -Nice variety of bottled microbrews (try the Banana Bread beer. seriously, just do it) -Best frozen pizza I can ever recall having. Don't be put off by the frozenness; it's perfect. -Lots of space. -Riverwest = a good, eclectic mix of people. In the best possible way. -During my time here, there were -- not one, but TWO -- dogs in the bar. Dogs! Love dogs. And I can't currently have one where I live, so I was happy to make friends with these ones. Cons: -Beer's a little more on the pricey side (about $4.75/bottle), but not as bad as it could be. Overall, I like. I'll be back. Nice work, Art Bar. read more

Great atmosphere and awesome menu. The cocktail I had was watery though and the people seemed kind of cliquey. I will definitely come back though! read more

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If I lived in Riverwest, this would be my bar. Well, it still is my bar. On Tuesday nights anyway (responsible driver friends always in tow). So... great beer selection, check (although a better wheat beer selection would make this a 5.5 star rating), art on the walls, check, hit or miss music that you can complain about and then love anyway, check, GREAT bartending staff, check, mediocre frozen pizza, check, pool table, board games, you name it check, check and check. I am not sure what else would one want from a bar?! One suggestion: dim the lights. Five stars because this is my favorite bar in Milwaukee. read more

I like you art bar. I like you a lot. I've been here more than a handful times less than a dozen.. Every time it's mega fun. People are super friendly and it's an all around good vibe here. Whenever I am riverwesting I make my way here. It's always a sordid tale of wonderful shenanigans. I approve. I'd also like to mention the bartenders are really outstanding. I had one of the best shots ever here. It tasted like those amazing peanut, nougat center, carmel magic rolls. I had seven. Yes, seven. Bonus round.. Will (a tender of bar at said art bar) has an uncanny resemblance to ryan gosling. It's a DOG friendly bar. I met Charlie the Pomeranian the last time I was there and. I'm totally smitten. read more

I don't make it into Riverwest enough and this bums me out. I should go to Art Bar more often. It had been probably close to two years since my last visit and that really cannot happen again. Me: "Self, let's get Art Bar on a more regular rotation on our social calendar. OK? Thanks!" Sure, it's in a kinda seedy area...but that my friends, is the spice of living! My favorites about Art Bar: 1. Frozen pizza is the best here...I don't need any of that gourmet business! 2. Mystery Beer...you could get Icehouse (ugh), or Wild Hog IPA. Roll the dice! 3. Great bartenders...super nice, solid recommendations 4. Live music space...in front but it's nice that if you are not interested you can hang out on the upper level and chat, or chill by the window in the other room 5. Board games, pinball, pool. 'Nuff said. 6. Local art, exhibitions, etc. 7. Great space for a benefit... 8. Dead Guy Ale. Yum. Yeah, this definitely needs to be added to my list of regular haunts. read more

This place is great! We stopped in to have a beer (and an incredible selection) and ended up closing the bar! The staff is awesome and this is a super friendly place. On another note, they have this new pizza there, I think it is from the Milwaukee Pizza Company. Try the Greek Pizza with olives, feta cheese and a white sauce. Sooo delicious read more

Went to hangout with an old fiend after the Car Show and i love to show off place with BIG character to my friend. Milwaukee has so many sides, if you look for it. The Art Bar showcases local artists, seems like it changes roatates to another theme weekly. This week theme was 8 x 10 of alphabets on selected canvas of anything you can imagine. Always a great conversation starter. read more

Art Bar - Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

I love this place! Friendly staff, the owner is fantastic, The Mystery Beer specials are a great catch, there are a wide variety of board games, the tables are made from rulers, the pillars are covered in beer bottle caps, the art on the walls are old paint by numbers as well as large displays from local artists, and they host acoustic shows! As far as the smoking goes? Seeing as I'm from Chicago and we have the smoking ban in full effect, I LOVE that I can just relax and have a smoke with my tasty beverage of the alcoholic persuasion. read more

This is just a genuinely nice bar to go into. The atmosphere is relaxed and decor is cleverly designed. They have all of these custom cocktails, but that's not my jam. They have a good selection of beer, but nothing to earth shaking. This bar has a little bit of everything, so if you are not sure what you want to do in an evening this would be a good place to start. read more

This is me and my boyfriend's favorite bar :-) The second-to-last time we were here, maybe, a redheaded comedian made a joke about my cousin, Milwaukee chairman Lee Holloway (please don't judge me on that......). What he said was true, so I shouted, "Lee's my cousin! He sucks!" which had the audience rolling. Aside from that, the food's great, the drinks are varied and flowing, and the lighting can be romantic, or a bit too dim if you're trying to read. There's a pool table and quite a few board games, along with memorabilia and a pinball machine. And even if you don't buy any art, you can at least wonder over its beauty or wonder how the hell a piece like it ended up on the walls! One complaint: You may have to breathe in dust or paint for a bit, as someone is always painting something or hanging something up towards the front door. read more

I recently went to Art Bar for happy hour and was reminded of why I love this place. First and foremost it's buy one get one. There is an extensive beer list and you get free ChexMix....bonus! Patrons were shooting pool, playing games, reading, and conversing with one another. It was pretty busy as it normally is and there was only one bartender, but he provided efficient friendly service. The art work was beautiful and changes regularly. Dogs are also welcome. If I was a Riverwester I would definitely be a regular. If you are in the area Art Bar is a must read more

Generally speaking, I love Art Bar. I really enjoy the atmosphere and that they allow dogs in there. However. Time after time I am let down by the poor customer service skills of the bar tenders. Let's take last night for example. Sat 12-20-14 at about 10pm. I come in with a group of friends who have never been to Art Bar before. We order a total of 6 beverages. I first order a bloody mary, in which case you can tell the female bartender was thinking "ugh." But whatever, I brush it off. A few friends order their drinks, one being another Bloody Mary. After the hot mess of trying to pay for our drinks. (the male bartender cashed out a couple of my friends, however the female bartender kept insisting we didn't pay for them.) we return to our table. My Bloody Mary was fine. However, my friend who ordered hers second. Was awful. We already were talking about how rude that female bartender was, now she made an almost undrinkable beverage. It tasted as if she poured half a bottle of Tabasco and half a bottle A1 sauce in it. I get it, it's Saturday. Bloody Mary's obviously take longer to make than opening a can of PBR. If you REALLY don't want to make them, lie to use and say your out of tomato juice or something. Paying $8 plus tip for an unacceptable beverage is embarrassing. We didn't order more beverages and cut our night short because of this terrible experience. This is just one of may terrible experiences with bartenders here. I will be taking my business to Cafe Centraal from now on. They have such better bloody Mary's and exponentially better service. (Cross posted onto facebook) read more

Honestly one of the comfiest bars I've ever been to. It's a great place to get a drink and catch up with friends, it isn't too loud or overwhelming, and the whole place is covered in local artwork which I love. There's pool tables and board games you're welcome to use, and they have a pretty decent selection of beers and mixed drinks. It's dog friendly too, and has quickly become our go-to spot to end walks around the neighborhood. Art Bar fits perfectly in the River West scene, and it's hands-down my favorite bar in Milwaukee! read more

I came here because of a groupon I purchased. It was a Saturday afternoon, so it was very quiet. Loved everything about it - nice and spacious on the inside, outdoor seating, good selection of beer and DELICIOUS pizza! Definitely will be coming back. Seriously, get the pizza! read more

I really enjoy Art Bar. Not sure why I don't go more often. They seem to pull in some great local acts - I've never been disappointed. I also generally like the art they have on display. OH - and get the table with the magnets and paperclips and you're set for the night! read more

One of the best happy hours in town. 4-7 buy one get one... Any drink! Will, the bar tender is one of the best, hardest working bar tenders in the city read more

Art Bar - Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Very cool bar. We happened to attend during a planned parenthood benefit so there were DJs and a nacho bar. All the art was for sale. Lots of seating which is always a plus. read more

I would give this place 5 stars if it was smoke free. other than the lack of tap beer you can get a late, or a beer from all over the country, or a mixed drink, or a mixed late (my favorite). They even serve Pizza. They have Free WiFi, cool art to look at, and games to play. you can be there for hours an not even realize its already 1am.... read more