What a gem of a spot in Washington Heights! This cute and tiny wine bar serves up a limited menu of snacks, wine, solid beers on tap and some killer cocktails. They have an amazing patio and live music on the rooftop on Thursdays. When I say the interior is tiny, I mean tiny! There are a few small tables and a couple of chairs at the bar. No reservations taken, so it can be difficult to find a spot on weekends. If you're in the area, check this spot out! Perfect for date night, or a nightcap in a cozy and cute space. read more

Charles E Fromage - Beer Bar Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

See all

Great atmosphere and love the rooftop setting,but to be honest, it's not really worth the price,for what you get.I would say it's worth trying once if you're looking for something very different.Their prices,for example $10 for a small little bowl of nuts is kind of crazy.There is nothing wrong with the quality ,but it's nothing you couldn't do with your own charcuterie board and a stop at Trader Joe's.I'm not here to bash them,but overall it just isn't worth it the price for what you get. read more

Charles E Fromage - Beer Bar Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

See all

Charles E Fromage has been adorable from the get-go, but somehow since changing management has become even more adorable. This small hole-in-the wall has some amazing cocktails and a really good wine selection, and we will go on Thursday for their live music night. Service is always wonderful and we always feel right at home. We never want to leave! Always keeps us coming back for more. I love that they recently started doing rotating cocktails and themes, they've all been so good and fun. read more

Charles E Fromage - Excellent red wine - Beer Bar Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Great spot for a date, to have pleasant conversation over a charcuterie board and a cocktail or glass of wine. But go on a slow night. They don't accept reservations, and there is nowhere to stand and wait for a table. You can't even put your name on a wait list and come back because they don't have one. If you leave, you lose your spot in line. It took us three visits before we landed on a night with no line. It is a very small place with only a few tables in the seating area and bar seating. The service was attentive and polite. The cocktails are fantastic and flavorful, including their N/A offerings. The menu is basically just choosing how much cheese and charcuterie you desire. There aren't many choices for variation because the offerings change depending what is curated that week. The prices might be a bit high for what is served, but the quality of every ingredient is superb. The two of us were satiated with the largest board ($40) and an extra order of toasts. Glad to have tried Charles From age, but our curiosity is satisfied. read more

See all

This tiny place has big taste. What a perfect place for holiday drinks. So many fun choices. The macaroon is a must!!! The cider hit the spot on a cold winter night. The staff is so friendly and welcoming. It is small so be prepared to wait, but totally worth it. read more

See all

Great menu and delicious cocktails! It was worth the drive from Madison. The service was excellent as well. Love the feeling of France! We will be making a return visit soon! read more

Charles E Fromage - Beer Bar Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

See all

Noël à Paris proved irresistible. I've told myself many times to try Charles E Fromage. It is, as others have pointed out, just adorable from the outside, with it's rooftop balcony and twinkling lights. Somehow I've never gone. But this Parisian Christmas in the 50s themed popup spoke to me for a festive and romantic date night out. It starts seating at 4 and take that seriously. The seatings are timed for a strict 90 minutes. If you get there at 4:10, you will wait in line until someone leaves as this tiny gem seats only 14 people total. We learned the hard way and did wait in line for the second seating. The tables are two tops and a couple 3-seaters, so don't go with your huge group of friends. This is an intimate, cozy spot and tres romantique. The holiday decor was everywhere you looked - classic films and shorts on the TV, old crooner carols en francais, hand-written little notes, paper chains and retro decorations in every nook and cranny. The special cocktails were fun and festive - my twist on a Manhattan - a Santa's Belly - was refreshing and excellent, while BF enjoyed a cheese martini - a dirty martini where the olives were stuffed with the house five-cheese glop. We ordered the big charcuterie board with extra baguette, because this was a special date after all. Everything was excellent on the board, with the glop being our overall favorite. We ate every last bit and had no need of dinner. On top of it all, every one working was extremely nice. We were seated at the bar and so we interacted with all of the staff and beyond good service and politeness, we felt a warmth and personal kindness that I've not encountered in many places ever. We didn't get away cheaply, but that's okay. Some times a special evening is worth every penny and this was one. They mentioned a special menu for Valentine's and I'm intrigued. They also have a book club and all sorts of weekly events. If you haven't checked them out, you should. C'est magnifique! read more

See all

We usually make our way to Charles about once every couple months. It's an amazing spot to get a glass of wine and wind down, I'd say it's easily my favorite spot to get wine and a cheese board in MKE. The vibes are perfect, it's small and cozy so if you have a party of 4+ it can be difficult, but it's perfect for two! The wine selection is always great and the service is even better! Can't recommend this spot enough for a stop during a date night! read more

Charles E Fromage - Fromage Cheese Glop - Beer Bar Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

This is one of my favorite spots in Milwaukee for a drink and a snack. They always have a variety of cocktails, mocktails, beers and wines, and for the quality of the drinks, the price is very reasonable. The atmosphere is also so unique and cozy--a true gem! read more

If you have not been to Charles E Fromage for a date night - put it on your list right now! The small space is cozy, welcoming, and intimate. They always have a great selection of wine, beers, and cocktails that all look delicious. The staff is always very personable and helpful. One of our favorite places to stop by for a glass of wine or two on a weekend. They also have some great deals during the week! read more

Charles E Fromage - Fromage Cheese Glop - Beer Bar Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

What a quaint neighborhood mixology bar! I was able to make it for the holiday pop up and it was adorable, highly recommend checking it out! A tip is if you are going during the pop up, the doors open at 4 and the place was fully packed at 4:30 as there are very few tables in the winter. My favorite was the cider but you couldn't go wrong with any of them! read more

Did not mean to come here, so this experience was serendipity. We wanted the restaurant YELPers love down the block but here's the big problem with YELP. When a restaurant gets a lot of 4 and 5 star glowing reviews then there's a resulting long waiting line. But this place beckoned us from the car. We decided to have a glass of wine while deciding where to have dinner instead based only on how nice the place looked, just drive, walk, or bicycle past and I defy you to resist walking in. I detest the of used description "super cute" but that's really the best description. Well chosen wine list, but I thoroughly enjoyed my cocktail, an unusual gin and tonic variation. We had a nice charcuterie, I recommend getting an added baguette. It ended up making dinner unnecessary. We sat outside ("super cute" patio) and it cooled off so the staff brought out a blanket for the Chief of Staff. The service was so good, no pretentious waitstaff sing song with nonsense words and excessive effusive pretension (which is super annoying not super cute). If you see me here by myself don't bother me, I'm probably pretending I'm on vacation in France. Perfect place for a romantic date. read more

Charles E Fromage - Beer Bar Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Service = ***** Ambiance = ***** Outdoor seating and view = ***** Drink menu = ***** This is a hidden gem in Wauwatosa/Milwaukee. Small place with a big atmosphere with the outdoor seating. In MKE we look for great spots like this to sit outside and enjoy the warm weather. My date suggested this place and I've never been here. Nice selection of drinks and nice small menu for appetizers or small plates to share. We had the Capalatina and Olive salad. They have events monthly so join the mailing list. I will definitely be back to enjoy the company and sunset views off the front deck. Check it out and support! read more

See all

Quaint place with great service. We loved their signature cocktails and got the fromage cheese board. We walked out in my favorite state: warm and tipsy. read more

Went to CEF tonight and was busy. Love the place, but was only 1 bar seat open, so I said I would stand. The bartender with the tattoos said we couldn't stand. Unfortunately we left. 2nd time with her and bad taste. Not sure I'll be back. read more

Great little spot for wine, beer and snacks. Staff is super nice and accommodating. Can't wait to get back!

I'm not going to give it away. You just need to know that if you want a quiet and charming cocktail bar in an intimate setting, this is for you. No further explanation. read more

Charles E Fromage - Roof top seating - Beer Bar Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

The sweetest little French bistro there ever was. If you haven't been to @charles.e.fromage you are really missing out. This little gem is on West Vliet street in the Washington Heights neighborhood. The staff is always warm and welcoming. The craft cocktails are delicious. We couldn't love this place more. Stop in and see for yourselves! You will not be disappointed. I want to keep this amazing place all to myself, but, go and support a local small business. à votre santé. read more

Charles E Fromage - Lovely patio and deck seating. Wonderful on a beautiful summer evening. - Beer Bar Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

The best cocktails in Milwaukee. Don't be fooled. It's not just a wine bar. The staff is absolutely professional and totally fun to talk to. Yes their hours are kind of stringent, but it's worth it. It makes sense. Love that these people are in the neighborhood. They do a fantastic job with everything. They have a nice little TV if you want to watch a sporting event or something else and they're always down for suggestions. Their patio on the roof is great. Their wine is expertly chosen, and there are some great deals as well. They definitely have beer if you want it and super cold. Well done! read more

Your new neighborhood wine bar! Charles E Fromage is the newest addition to the Washington Heights area, close to the Times, Cold Spoons and Valentine. It's a cozy, charming space with seats for maybe 20 people both at the bar and at a few tables along the wall. When you enter, you'll notice a spectacular vintage French circus poster on one wall - that sets the tone for the beautifully designed interior. Have a seat and choose from the small but well curated list of glasses and bottles. Prices are very reasonable with glasses around $8 and bottles around $30. Not a wino? They're got a few beer choices including "the Heights" from local Vennture Brewing. We settled in with a bottle of Portuguese rose that we loved - fresh, clean and slightly fizzy. To go with your wine, there are snacks - delicious homemade cheese spread (had, loved, recommend), olives and almonds. What could be better than that? Well, how about genuinely nice owners who are so excited to be in the neighborhood? Or super clean, wonderful smelling restrooms? I love everything about this place, but I especially love that it's just a few blocks from home. See you soon (and often) Charles E Fromage!!! read more

See all

It was a bit of a haul to come here from the East Side of Milwaukee, but it was absolutely worth it! This little bar, tucked away in the the Washington Heights area, is simply charming. Everyone is friendly (the owners, the bartenders, and the patrons), the decor is simple and sleek, the music was not too loud, and the drinks and snacks were tasty! Two of my dear friends work here, so we came on a night they were working to sit and enjoy a bite and a glass of wine while they did their thing. Because the place is so small, we were able to socialize with our friends while still allowing them to do their job and not get in the way of the other customers. The place is tiny, I think maximum capacity is 14 or 15, and our group took up nearly half of that. That being said, even when we got to that maximum capacity point, it never felt "crowded" or "claustrophobic," the mirror behind the wall definitely makes the place feel larger than it is. At several points, a person or a group walked past the windows, looked down to see everyone inside (the bar is just below the ground, making it both extra cozy and fun for people watching), and then turned around and walked in themselves. I think that just goes to show how inviting this place is! Although there is not a wide selection of drinks, the wines that they do have are good quality and reasonably priced. They also have a decent selection of beers for those who don't prefer wine, and various sodas for those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks. As for the snacks, the Marcona Almonds are deadly--they are salted and tossed with rosemary, and I could have eaten about 20 bowls of them. The "cheese glop" doesn't necessarily sound appetizing, but it sure as heck tastes amazing! Long story short: cozy, quaint, and overall quite enjoyable! Will certainly be back. read more

Charles E Fromage - Beer Bar Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

See all

Update to review below: Tony's Super Saturday Sandwich! Just had a Tony's Super Saturday Sandwich! Incredible! Tony has created quite a sandwich that will make your tastebuds pop. Yummy! Get a growler of their great beer while your at it. What a unique and wonderful place to enjoy some unique beers, wine , sodas and handcrafted snacks. The owners have turned an old barber shop into a warm and inviting place for conversation with friends and whomever might sit down at the bar. The music is just at the right volume for conversation. The owner will play your choice of favorite music if you wish. I had the a beer from the 1840 Brewing Company and found it quite tasty. I also enjoyed the Five Cheese Spread with some fresh bread and the Rosemary Marconi Almonds. Both snacks were fresh and delicious. The bathroom is probably the best I've seen in ages. So stop in before or after a movie at The Times Theatre. read more

See all

I loved my visit to CEF on Sunday, and I cannot wait to return. I was one of the first people there on Sunday, and while I enjoyed the sunshine several others came in and out. Small-village vibe with owners (husband and wife) who actually care to hear your story and remember your name. I started with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc, the cheese "glop" and the capilatini (sp?). They were very kind and helpful bringing dishes out to the patio where I was even though everyone else was inside. Then they topped it off my never forgetting I was out there and regularly checking up on me and bringing me fresh, cold water. The cheese dip was smooth and spreadable, a mix of five or six cheeses blended with some olive oil. Delish. The other dish was a mix of olives, capers, celery, crushed tomatoes, pine nuts and eggplant - one of the owners' grandmother's recipe! The cheese came with toast pieces and the cap. came with an assortment of crackers. Small dishes for the right price, and a nice accompaniment for the fresh white wine. I will definitely be a regular here, as they don't seem to compete with The Ruby Tap down the way. The two spots seem to have different vibes completely and a totally different set of target consumers - this is more of a grab a glass on the way home and get to know some neighbors kind of place, and just what I wanted to move in down the block. read more

Charles E Fromage - Beer Bar Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

What a hidden gem. Fell up this quant lil joint while killing time in the neighborhood. Very cozy and welcoming. Be sure to get the homemade seasoned mixed nuts. read more

This is a great spot to meet friends. Have a glass of wine, or share a bottle...sit outside in summer or enjoy the coziness of being inside where you will always make a friend. It's small and quaint, but not crowded. Plus the name is the best, and the tag line, where adults can be adults, is, too. read more

Charles E Fromage - Charles E. Fromage - Beer Bar Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

See all

Not "cheesy" at all!! The name says it all. The owners like to have fun, yet keep it classy. I only hope that Chuck E. Cheese Corporate doesn't take issue with this adorable little place.. This is exactly what this neighborhood needs: a quaint wine bar with a small, well selected rotating list of wines and craft beers. So far, the wine and beer lists seem to be seasonal. Several crisp, refreshing selections perfect for summer. I love that we can walk here from our house. I get the impression that most of the clientele also can. Nearly every time we have been here, we get into a conversation about where we live. Most people point towards the direction of their home and say " just a block down that way", or "right around the corner". We've lived here in the Heights for about four years. I am really beginning to appreciate the small businesses along Vilet Ave. CEF will keep us coming back. It's a nice way to end the evening, especially if you want to have "one more", but don't want to do it before you hit the road.... if you know what I mean. What you need to know: This place is small, but encourages community. Sit at the bar, talk to everyone around you. They do offer small nosh options with your drinks, but don't expect a meal. Be prepared to make friends! The owners, Tony and Honore, may be the nicest people you haven't met yet!! read more

We've been meaning to check Charles E Fromage out for quite awhile. This is a must drop in spot! Delicious wine & cheese, excellent service, relaxing time on the rooftop porch. We will be back! read more

My wife and I stopped In for a beer, and ended up with so much more! The owners were very friendly, as were the other customers at the bar. We tried several different beers and even got to choose the next beer that they tapped. We also had the cheese glop and olive plate from their Snacks menu, and both were delicious! read more

Charles E Fromage - Black Husky - Beer Bar Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

I happened by after a fantastic dinner with friends. The Cannoli chip and dip was a delightful after dinner treat. I also enjoyed the quaint and friendly conversation. Highly recommend! read more

Charles E Fromage - Bartender Tony makes fabulous appetizers and chooses the most amazing local beers. - Beer Bar Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

This was my third time here. Stopped in for an aperitif and enjoyed their seasonal gin and cranberry cocktail special. The unique, initiate space and great service made this a perfect stop read more

Came a few months ago with my husband and was so impressed by this cute place! Tony was so personable and shared many stories with us. He was so friendly. They had a good variety of local beers on tap and the cheese glop was amazing. I saw they are doing virtual wine classes on Friday's and I am planning to do one next week! read more

What a wonderful experience. We were excited to try this new spot in Washington Heights. We walked down with the kids and found a spot at the bar. They have outside seating/service but found the company of the bartenders and patrons to be awesome. We ordered the 5 cheese spread. It was delicious soft cheese served with sliced baguette. They have a delightful selection of snacks and drinks. They have great tap and bottled beer hand picked from craft breweries. They have a great wine selection too, though that's not really my taste. We had the pineapple milkshake IPA, holy smokes... my fiance had 2 and she never drinks beer. The owners were lovely people and entertained my 4 yo the whole time. We are so excited to have this spot in our neighborhood! Support this local business. You wont be disapponted. read more

Excellent little neighborhood gem! Nice quaint atmosphere, friendly, good drinks. Haven't tried the food yet but have heard great things and will be back! read more

Great place to hang out! Convenient hours, great customer service, and a wonderful (but not convoluted) selection of wines, Wisconsin craft beers, and snacks. I'll be back a couple times a week - prices are great too! read more

Stopped here for the first time for a glass of wine and a snack before bowling! Let. Me. Tell. You! The meatballs and ricotta was AMAZING! Easily the best meatballs I've ever had! Wine and beer selection was great! Definitely coming back! read more

First time here but won't be the last! The 2 young gentlemen behind the bar were personable & attentive. The wine & beer offerings interesting & satisfying! Loved the intimate atmosphere & setting. Neighborhood gem!! read more

Don't let the name fool you - it is not all about cheese! This delightful and intimate bistro offers wine, beer, and a thoughtful collection of yummy snacks. Looking forward to returning for the local street fair the first week of October read more

A friend introduced me to CEF yesterday. It will not be my last visit! Good wine, great food, and a friendly atmosphere. Think upscale wine bar meets corner bar! read more