Dorma is an amazing neighborhood staple with friendly staff and excellent food. So cozy and welcoming. I am always left with good vibes after a visit. Highly recommend. (Alliexander, who left a 1-star review below, must be mistaking this restaurant for another. The owners have never owned another restaurant and I can't ever imagine them treating someone like this.) read more

I recently went with a group of friends and family to Nessun Dorma for a post wedding brunch. We tried to make a reservation, since we were a group of seven, but they would not take one. Luckily when we got there the back room was open and they pushed some tables together for us. I'd like to make this a 2.5-star review. The food was quite good. We enjoyed our drinks. The atmosphere was as cozy as ever. Our service was deeply disappointing. Our server, A.S., might have been tired or something. I can't speak for her state of mind, but she was really detached and borderline dismissive. Yes, we got all of our food. We would certainly have ordered more drinks, increasing our tab and gratuity, but she never came back and asked if anyone wanted one. One of our guests ordered avocado toast. Apparently they were out. She came back and said "Whoever ordered the avocado toast, we're out." She didn't know who ordered which dish to start, and then she didn't bring a menu back so the guest could make an informed second choice. They had to just order whatever they remembered. Coffee drinkers were offered one refill - just one. Seriously, I don't know what was going on, but we left pretty quickly since our celebratory mood was being squelched. I hope she recovered from whatever was wrong with her. read more

Nessun Dorma - Stuffed hashbrowns - Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Cute neighborhood spot serving up tasty food and cocktails/drinks. We came for brunch and sat outside on a beautiful June day. The server had a sandwich special she mentioned that had aioli and was fantasticccccc. I am still dreaming about it haha. My friends ordered some other items and they liked theirs as well. All-in-all, everything was good, but I do feel like the bill was pretty pricey. Would still return and maybe take advantage of their happy hour! read more

Nessun Dorma - Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Every experience at Nessun Dorma is a 10/10 experience. The vibes are immaculate - very Italian cozy bistro vibes, and it has so much to offer throughout the various times of day. There's a patio in the summer if you want to soak in the sun. Their food is delicious with pasta specials on Wednesdays. Good soups! The happy hour slaps with variety of drink options. The bartenders are friendly and attentive and I love hanging out there late night when the kitchen closes to converse with them. They do fun little gimmicks like opera night! read more

Great food, drinks, atmosphere and staff. Very kind and caring owners. I learned a lot about bourbon here and met a lot of intelligent and interesting people. This is where we want to be read more

Nessun Dorma - Wine - Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Stopped at Nessun Dorma on a rare spontaneous date night with my husband when we were in the area. The weather could not have been better so we sat outside at an adorable table in front of the restaurant. What went well: Drink specials (house wine was great) decor and people watching, olives, artichoke dip, toasted bread What didn't go so well; The "French onion soup", (tons of croutons, unmelted cheese, not much broth, mushrooms?) the service (45+ min) to get our meal, bathroom is old and meh. Glad I went to this historical bar in riverwest and we enjoyed the outdoor table. Wouldn't really recommend to a friend. read more

Nessun Dorma - Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Love this local Riverwest spot, it has everything you need. Good food, good drinks, and friendly staff! I sat outside with dog, the server brought out a dog bowl with cold water and was great all evening! I got the spicy steak sandwich sub steak with tofu and a cup of soup! It was superb! read more

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Always love this place for food and drinks!! Every entree has been absolutely delicious, especially their sandwiches. We brought our fancy foodie friend from LA and he loved it! I also love their drinks and enjoy stopping in late night as well. The service is always top notch with friendly bartenders and servers. Love the cozy ambiance as well. read more

This is a neighborhood gem with great food, well prepped cocktails and surprises on the occasional Wednesday night. Don't miss it!

Wanted to try a place close to home in Riverwest. Went for dinner with a friend on a Friday night. Had no problem getting a table. Very friendly service, great wine options. Food was good- not great. Fun vibe, though. read more

Nessun Dorma - Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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We could not have had a more pleasant experience at this restaurant! We stopped in before a show and had dinner and a couple of drinks. Our server was so friendly and upbeat and was honestly really helpful with recommendations and suggestions. The bars hit a dark, low key atmosphere and the food was incredible. read more

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An amazing neighborhood cocktail bar with a surprisingly talented kitchen. Both the wonderfully creative cocktails and the limited but consistently amazing food make Nessum a hidden gem read more

If you've never been to this gem, you are missing out!!! the staff is stellar, the food is hands-down deliciously intricate. Whether you're in the mood for dinner or brunch, you're bound to find something you will fall in love with there and Emily is the best. read more

Absolutely love this place. Great food environment. Staff was so nice. Our server couldn't have been any sweeter. The artichoke melt was divine! We will be back! read more

Favorite place in Milwaukee, best food, innovative and fun drink list, great staff. I could go on. Cozy inside in the winter, and when the weather is nice the patio is fantastic. read more

I fell in love with Nessun Dorma all the way back in 2010 and it's still knocking it out of the park. Such a cute and cozy atmosphere that's great for date night, dinner with friends, or brunch/game day. The drinks/wine and food are always very good. I also appreciate the affordability and great service. Nessun Dorma is a Milwaukee gem. read more

People rave about this rustic tavern nestled in the Riverwest neighborhood. I don't get it. It reminds me of a rustic Panera Bread with alcohol. The food there is fine, just not many options. Salads, paninis, and some other small appetizers. What made this last visit particularly disappointing was the awful service we received. It was a Saturday around noon and it was half full in the bar area. We got our drinks pretty quick and then placed our food order: 1 mushroom panini. We then waited, and waited, and waited. There was only one other table that ordered food so there wasn't a backlog in the kitchen. 1 hour later the food finally came. Our waiter only came by once to update us. It was a colossal fail, with no accountability or responsibility taken and pretty much ruined our dining experience. This place gets a lot of love but I don't know why. Food is ok, the options are very limited and the service is spotty. You're not missing out, so don't go out of your way to try this place. There are plenty of Panera's out there where you can get similar food and you won't have to worry about the hassle of waiting forever to get it. So many better options in Riverwest. Save your time and money and go elsewhere. read more

Had a great dinner last night with a friend at Nessun Dorma in Riverwest! My fries came here for brunch and heard their dinner was delicious so we decided to try it out! I had the goat cheese and beet salad with walnuts, pickles onions and balsamic vinaigrette. Super refreshing and light and was perfect on a humid night! Loved the pickled onion addition I think without it, it would be a little bland but super good choice! Their menu is full of panini choices and my friend got the chicken Caesar panini! It was delicious! With huge pieces of chicken, thick and creamy cease dressing and homemade croutons that were to die for! We also got the classic bruschetta and it was okay- it was as much classic as I thought with pesto and mozzarella cheese. The bread could have been crispier in our opinion but nonetheless- good flavor! Their drinks looked delicious too. A bunch of probation era inspired cocktails and a huge wine and beer list. If you're looking for a casual quick bite- this is that place to go! read more

Nessun Dorma - Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Pretty space with multiple seating areas offering tables, high tops, and bar. Low lighting creates an intimate setting perfect for couples and a relaxing vibe for friends. Service for us was fast and friendly, and our server was helpful in answering our questions and making recommendations. I had the Beet and Goat Cheese salad with Steak, and it was very good. I ordered my steak medium-rare, and it was done perfectly. While the dressing was a delicious vinegarette, there was a little too much to keep the greens from getting soggy the next day, so it's best to enjoy this all in one sitting. We had a party of 4 and were able to grab a high top around 6:45 on a Friday, which was lucky. This place is strictly first come first serve and fills up fast. read more

Nessun Dorma - Beet and Goat Cheese salad with steak - Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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This place is fantastic and has always made super yummy food. I wish I could remember the soup I had last time. So good!

Avoid unless you have an hour to kill waiting for a salad. Waitress didn't care. Can't comment on food. And I won't be back.

Stopped in for brunch & was not disappointed by the daily special, scallops poor boy. Off the hook delicious. The bartender was awesome, welcoming & helpful. The one tv was not on. I initially thought there wasn't any. Perfect. I love pubs that don't have screens everywhere you turn. They always have interesting specials. Highly recommend! read more

Nessun Dorma - Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

I've had take out from Nessun Dorma at Black Husky brewing and loved their vegetarian options. So after an invitation to brunch with friends, I thought it would be be fun to actually visit the restaurant. Wonder staff and owner! Everyone was very attentive and friendly. I ordered the weekend waffle which was very delicious and a Bloody Mary (because Wisconsin). Another delightful treat. The brunch menu is a brief (which makes sense), but it offers something for everyone. Another highly recommend gem in Riverwest! read more

Nessun Dorma - Bloody! - Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Adore this bar. Seriously an understated gem. I was a bit hesitant to come here, but it quickly won over my heart. We came here for brunch and stayed for maybe three hours. Then circled back again four hours later. The bartender remembered us and we learned about the neighbourhood and history for hours. The food was gorgeous for both brunch and dinner. I can't wait to come back! read more

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I have been coming for years! I love this place. it's my date place. it's my go to on a Sunday. it's my summer outside place with the dogs. Need I say more? The food is great. It has been for years if you ask me. Get the artichoke dip. it has kick and it's baked so amazing, served with panini toasted bread. A plus. not chips. Every panini is amazing. Every darn single one served with a house signature salad. the charcuterie board is so inexpensive and so good. That atmosphere is my favorite whether inside or out. Now, this place is chill. They work hard but... don't go in a rush. Go because you enjoy who you're with. Go because you have time. They will spend time with you when it's your turn if that makes sense. I like that! Ok. reason for the 4 stars down from my 5 back in the day.... I truly miss the amazing special of the night. I have had stuffed zucchini, butternut squash dishes. I have had amazing meat dishes that just aren't offered anymore. the specials seem to be the same tomato based soups which I'm not a fan and maybe a pasta. Maybe I'm wrong but I miss those. the lasagna amazing both meat and vegetaria. Did I mention the vegetarian dishes are plentiful. Ok maybe I should have stuck with y w 5 stars because. let me tell you, I only order drinks, not beer, at places I know can make one so I so here and you should too! one of the few bars that will make a drink properly and an amazing drinkologist's selection. thanknuou for your time. I hope you will find this helpful. read more

One of the best breakfast places in Milwaukee. Love their unique take on biscuits and gravy. The vibe is great and it feels like you're in a true old school Milwaukee diner. read more

This was my first time trying Nessun Dorma and I ordered takeout due to COVID. I was very impressed with the precautions that they are taking. I ordered the traditional bruschetta, artichoke melt panini and a limoncello marscapone cake that was the daily special. The bruschetta was slightly disappointing but I chalk that up to it being takeout rather than in the restaurant. I'm looking forward to trying it again sometime when I'm ready to eat at restaurants again. The artichoke panini was pretty good! A little heavy on the black pepper for my palate but I enjoyed it. The cake was absolutely phenomenal and by far the best part of the meal. So light, fluffy and delicious! The service was great; I was able to place and pickup my order quickly, I didn't feel rushed when I called, and server I interacted with was very friendly. Plus it was very affordable. I'd love to go back again and have full service because I feel like it would be a great atmosphere! read more

A great corner restaurant/bar apart of the Riverwest neighborhood that was once a house many years ago. Ambiance inside is perfect for a date or intimate self date while the bar area will have the local game on for that feel. Service was great and very friendly with daily drink , food and soup of the day specials (2 dollar Riverwest Steins on Tuesday). Had the Italian Deli which was a cornucopia of delicious meats in my mouth with a perfectly warm Deli Loaf bread. I added the Garlic Pepper Aioli into this which only complimented the flavor. All sandwiches come with a delicious mixed green side salad with a House Balsamic. This is the 3rd time I've been here and they are 3/3 on sandwiches , and very moderately priced. read more

Nessun Dorma - Italian Deli - Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

This corner gem provided a great late night dinner date! Set in an old neighborhood it was refreshing to find people out enjoying lovely Italian food and drinks and watching the neighborhood go by! It's worth the find and I hope you always support local! read more

Nessun Dorma - Caprese salad - Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

I thought for sure I would've already reviewed Nessun Dorma, being so close to me and all. I absolutely love this place. Here are some reasons why: -their wine and beer list -decent happy hour specials ($2 RW Stein & pils, $3 rails, and $5 select wine pours from 4-6p) -friendly and attentive staff -chill atmosphere and vibe -indoor and outdoor seating -always a clean bathroom in my experience -delicious artichoke dip. I repeat DELICIOUS ARTICHOKE DIPPPP -small, focused food menu offering a nice little something (I usually opt for an appetizer plate of olives, meat and cheese to split) -always a specialty entree meal of the day -variety of the soup of the day (from scratch) read more

Comfortable, terrific spot for a bite and a drink. Nessun Dorma is an affordable place for great food masquerading as a corner tap in Riverwest. The menu is fairly limited, specializing in bruschetta (Under $10), salads (under $9) and paninis (under $14). Our party of four ordered the Ciccio as a starter. It's a very generous meat-and-cheese tray with Genoa Salami, Capicola, Pepperoni, Fontinella, Provolone, Olives, Pepperoncini, and Cherry Peppers. It was delicious and a lot more than we needed considering we also ordered dinner. I'm not a big fan of mushrooms, but my wife and I split the Portabella Philly Panini, and I enjoyed it. The Asiago Ciabatta bread was great, and the sandwich was delicious. Extra points for offering one of my all-time favorite beers, Grimbergen Dubbel. Nessun Dorma doesn't take reservations, so drop in. read more

Nessun Dorma - Bar in front with a small dining room in the back. - Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

The photo just doesn't do the food justice. It's a nice photo. But the food was phenomenal. Can you send a tip to the chef? Is that thing? The food was so delicious I wondered if tipping the chef is a legit thing. Shoot. It should be. All of the ingredients were fresh and good quality. I'll bet you a $5 value meal that the rolls are from Sciortino's. The roll was soft where it should be a crispy where it should be. This sandwich has tasty Italian beef, cheese and giardiniera (That's a spelling nightmare. Thank gaud for Google.). The sandwich comes with au jus for dipping, a simple but very flavorful and well done salad of spring greens, balsamic and garnished with some delicious olives and a pepperoncini (Woah! Another spelling challenge!). Service was smart and friendly. I sat at the bar and chatted up the bartender and nearby patrons. It doesn't take long to notice that this quaint neighborhood bar and restaurant has regulars from in and out of the neighborhood. The aesthetics of the building are gorgeous especially if you love history and architecture like I do. Restrooms are not gendered which is cool. The bathroom further to the back is way more spacious and fancy pants if you appreciate a nice public potty like many do. I really, really wish that I lived on this block. And this tavern could be my Cheers where everyone knows my name. The food and the service were just that enjoyable. But, then I'd need new, bigger pants. Also, there are ever changing daily food specials to check out. And happy hour drink specials too. And outdoor tables for chilling before it snows again. Really nice chill place with damn delicious food. You should go here. read more

Nessun Dorma - Italian Beef sandwich - Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Everyone has pretty much said it all - great service, great food, great drink selection. They always seem to have inventive specials and an awesome rotation of soups. Tonight I had a creamy tomato with smoked gouda. Um, YES. I also highly recommend the garlicky, cheesy, artichoke dip and the Portabello Phillie. The artichoke dip is some of the best I've ever had. It has a spicy kick to it that makes it above and beyond. read more

This is a first visit impression. a snapshot of drinks, ambiance, service, value. I was on my third leg of a bar hop home. The street parking is convenient or maybe I got lucky. My guess is this is a corner bar in a Riverwest residential area like Gee Wilickers. So many of the people enjoy walking or riding a bike. The general decoration of the bar is dim, dark the seats at the bar are wooden and clean and the bartenders were quick and pleasant. The customers were friendly as well. I look forward to having dinner some time soon. read more

Didn't eat the food here. We walked in to sit at the bar since Black Husky was kind of loud mess. Good to great beer selection. Wonderful bar staff. Lovely warm interior. We looked at a menu, I'm sure the food is fantastic but the prices seemed a skosh high for the neighborhood. read more

What a sweet spot! Nice, art deco wooden bar with good beers on tap, seemed to be a friendly group with some regulars and some new at the bar chatting. The food was amazing!! And reasonably priced! Will be back for more next time we are on the area! read more

10/10 - what a fantastic little neighborhood joint and hidden gem. We got the charcuterie board and other apps for the table and they were all great. The bread there is delicious and the cocktails are everything you'd hope for! Our service was fantastic, the atmosphere was perfect for meeting up with friends and enjoying the night. read more

Nessun Dorma was a perfect Sunday fun day brunch experience. Freddie, our server added extra fun to our afternoon with trusted recommendations & was kind, caring and funny! A+ Nessun Dora Bloody Mary - tasty w/ cucumber vodka!, biscuits & gravy... oh my!... we'll be back!, and delicious steak sandwich. I hidden gem!!! read more

This is one of my all time favorite restaurants! We went there last week for my birthday and it was delicious! The service is great, food is delicious, the atmosphere is cozy and priced right! We started with Cicco ( meat & cheese appetizer) $12, then I had a fromagio with steak( forgot to photograph because it looked so good) $10, my fiancé had the Spicey steak sandwich $10 and we ended with tiramisu( on the house for my birthday!). There beer list is extensive( 3 times the size of the menu), they also have a nice liquor selection and wine selection. This place is a hidden gem you need to try! read more

Nessun Dorma - Bars Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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I enjoy having drinks and the occasional bites at Nessun Dorma. The place has a mellow vibe, and the atmosphere resonates well with me: it's like a cozy bungalow turned restaurant with a couple of rooms to choose from for seating. The fondue restaurant in Cedarburg had a similar feel. I really enjoy the beautiful dark decor with red brick toned paint and warm wood. They have an espresso machine, a nice wine selection and of course the decent beer selection as others have mentioned. The tunes are good, and sometimes they're spinning on the vinyl record player behind the bar. For food, our go-to is usually the Ciccio: a platter with toasted Tuscan bread, Genoa salami, Capicola, pepperoni, Fontinella, provolone, Greek and Sicilian olives, pepperoncini and cherry peppers. Mr. R loves the Fontinella and I enjoy the olives, which he won't touch. I also am a big fan of the spicier of the meats on the platter. We have tried the artichoke dip, which was very rich and had some spice to it. I've had the beer broccoli cheese soup which was homemade with good flavor and the broccoli was fresh. There are paninis and salads on the menu, and they feature nightly specials. Nessun Dorma has happy hour deals every day, including $5 wines (the Cabernet is my go-to) and $2 pints, plus outdoor seating is available in nice weather. They have also recently added brunch on Saturday and Sunday. If you're looking for a break from Riverwest "beer and a shot bars" that don't serve wine or food, check out Nessun Dorma! read more