Whether you’re traveling somewhere new or somewhere familiar, finding places to explore that feel off the beaten path or that the locals love should automatically be added to your must-visit list. Here in Wauwatosa, we have quite a few hidden gems throughout our five dynamic districts that are perfect for uncovering the magic that our charming city has to offer.
The Mayfair District
Good City Brewing. With bites that are just as amazing as its long list of draft brews, Good City Brewing is the perfect place for a casual meal in a laid-back atmosphere. Watch the game on countless TVs (indoors or outdoors) or bring your pup to enjoy the patio on a nice day. Urban Beets Café & Juicery. Offering plant-based food options that are way more exciting than your average fruits and veggies, Urban Beets Café & Juicery will have you saying, “is that really plant-based?” with every bite.
East Tosa
Ca’Lucchenzo. Ca’Lucchenzo specializes in handmade pasta (with the perfect wine pairings!) that you can watch being made in its open-concept kitchen — now that’s amore. Wauwatiki. Enjoy a taste of the tropics all year long at Wauwatiki, an island-inspired bar and restaurant that serves its drinks in parrot pitchers, volcano vessels, and conch cups.
The Village
Vendetta Coffee Bar. Offering authentic Italian Sfogliatella straight from Italy, Vendetta Coffee Bar provides a taste of the owners’ roots right in the heart of our charming city. Visit the $1 stand-up espresso bar for a quick shot of caffeine before you continue exploring Wauwatosa. Heinsight Leather. In 1997, Heinsight Leather opened its doors in Wauwatosa and is now the oldest retailer in Tosa Village. This woman-owned custom leather boutique specializes in shearlings, fur coats, hats, and accessories.
68th & Wells
Jacobus Park. Tucked into 68th & Wells, Jacobus Park is perfect for a peaceful or active vibe. This beautiful public park is complete with a lilypad-covered pond, wading pool, athletic field, playground, and trails. Hyde Park MKE. Originally a dry-clean-only business owned by the current owner’s grandfather, Hyde Park MKE is a small, woman-owned clothing boutique that specializes in the latest women’s fashions.
MidTown
Thai-namite. Situated on W North Ave, Thai-namite is all about delicious curries, noodles, and sushi. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere with any of its Asian cocktails in hand. Ray’s Growler Gallery. Get a taste of living locally in Wauwatosa at Ray’s Growler Gallery, a speakeasy-esque bar situated above Ray’s Wine & Spirits. We recommend trying a twist on a Wisconsin classic with its frozen Old Fashioneds. Learn more about where to stay, where to eat, and things to do while you’re here in Wauwatosa.