Let's Meat at the Milwaukee Public Market-Foltz Family Market Take II-01/14/2026

 It was "Mystery Night" at our Public Museum and we decided to meet our son and his family at the Milwaukee Public Market for dinner before the event. The Public Market is a good choice because they offer quite the gambit of food choices. Unlike a restaurant that offers different food choices, these places have the ability to be more focused on their selection.I knew right away that I would go to Foltz for a cheeseburger. I'd been there before and found out how great they were at putting together a decent burger. They feature a meat counter so, that might be part of it.

I went with the "Classic Burger". And why not? Choice of cheddar, pepper jack or provolone and served with arugula and tomato (add frites for $1.50) Since the food was fresh made while I wait, I perused the deli case. Again, amazing selection and all very nicely presented. The burger arrives in a cardboard box. Opening the box adds to the excitement.The pretzel bun stands tall on top the burger. Layers of cheese, tomato and arugula extend outside the reach of the bun. I wish I could cut it open and see the layers stacked. It's a bit more rare than I asked for but I'm not taking it back. I bite in, good stuff. All the layers in one bite without a mess of junk shooting out the back.

Rate it: 4 of 5 (4+). It's a real, hand formed patty. I can't guess the weight but I'd guess at least 1/3 or more of fresh beef, seasoned nicely. The price, pretty great at $12 including Frites. 

Foltz 

 

Copping Some Kopp's-01/14/2026

Is there a day that isn't good for a Kopp's cheeseburger? Even better, a nasty, Wintry, snow covered road kind of day. Kopp's reminds me of Summer days when I was a little boy on the North side of Milwaukee. When the budget allowed, our family could indulge in some custard from Kopp's at Appleton Avenue and Locust. That location close 30 years ago. Today, it's the Greenfield location at South 76th and Layton Avenue, now made famous because Hugh Jackman stopped by to serve custard as part of his visit to Milwaukee promoting "Song Sung Blue". My reason to stop there was unrelated. Nor was there a crowd waiting in line to see me. I was actually on my way back from picking up my younger sister and her husband from Mitchell Airport. It was nearly noon and all of us were thinking it might be nice to stop for a bite somewhere. Like that, Kopp's was across the intersection from us. It was a "sign". We pulled into the snow covered parking lot unsure if we were parked between the lines. 

I ordered my "usual", cheeseburger, plain with onion rings. I love a plain cheeseburger, especially a Kopp's cheeseburger. You get all that buttery flavor of the bun that gets toasted on the griddle. No onions, pickles, ketchup, mustard. I have to say that it took a bit longer than usual. Not like they were very busy at the time. No matter, it arrived in it's white paper wrapping along with a similar paper bag full of onion rings. First bite and every bite after, one of my favorites. Being honest, I know that these are frozen patties ordered in the mass amount. They just taste good.

Rate it: 4of5. Consistent flavor over the years. Still a value at $7.00. Nostalgic to a kid from Milwaukee.

 

Movie and a burger-Movie Tavern Brookfield Square 01/06/2026

 I really only planned to go to see "Song Sung Blue" on the big screen but found myself kicking back and enjoying a tasty burger as well.

The Movie Tavern at Brookfield Square is pretty amazing. The theater is loungers that do everything your lounger at home might do. They also have a tray that comes in handy for snacks to rest on. We took advantage of the $6 Tuesday shows. Seats can be reserved. Your ticket includes a small popcorn. We did everything online. Selected our seats and ordered dinner. Yes, dinner! They offer quite a selection of items. Wraps, Tacos, Pizza, a $3 hot dog, not bad. Oh, burgers too! They have a few to choose from. All sound delicious but, we decided to get the straight forward "Tavern Burger". Double smash burger, American cheese, lettuce, grilled onion, dill pickles, Tavern Sauce. ($16)

We had it delivered to us in the theater just before the movie started. I didn't get a picture because I would have had to use a flash.

The burger arrived all wrapped up. I didn't know what to expect. It was substantial. Not what I expected. The burger was nicely seasoned. All the add-ons, fresh. They were kind enough to cut it in two for us to share. First bite, all the flavors came together wonderfully. I only wish I could have seen it better. 

Rate it: 4of5 (maybe 4+) Not a bad price considering the situation. Served at your seat at the exact time requested. Delicious. Maybe I liked it more because it was a surprise or because I couldn't really see what it looked like? No matter, worth it.

 

Shiver Me Timbers? Timber Club-10/23/2025

The Timber Club is a relatively new restaurant in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. The building is new too, built to look like it has been there since the start. The Timber Club is part of the Stagecoach Inn Bed & Breakfast. As you walk through the outdoor space towards the building you feel like you have been transported back to simpler, slower time in history. Once inside, I had to stop and look around at all the work and craftsmanship that was put into the construction. The place was packed. The staff, very welcoming. The owner Bill Conley roams the floor chatting with visitors.

The menu reads similar to a Supper Club, it includes tems like Beef Stroganoff, Pork Schnitzel and Steak Diane. How about burgers? They offer 4 variations. I'm a simple guy, cheeseburger works for me. Two all beef patties, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion and a toasted soft roll. Sounds darn good to me. Well, it was. I might call them on how well done the meat was but it wouldn't be worth it because the patties were still moist and delicious. Just enough seasoning and a wonderful roll to tie it all together. Nothing conflicted with the other. Harmonious.

Rate it: 4of5 I might go as far as 4+ because the value. Between the atmosphere, staff and food, this place is a worth while stop for food and live music. It's a nice addition to the foodscape in Cedarburg.

 Timber Club

 

Traverse Lodge-Breckenridge,CO 09/18/2025

 It wasn't my intention to have a burger while visiting Breckenridge Colorado but, here I go. After traveling for six days it was time for somebody else to cook and clean up. We had looked up places ahead of traveling and the Traverse Lodge looked like a wonderful location. They also had a special called Beer & Burger Wednesday. Well, it was a Thursday evening so no deal. The lodge dates back to the 1970s but has been updated and upgraded since. As you approach it the entrance gives you the vibe of a cozy ski lodge somewhere in the mountains. Which, I guess it is. The bar/restaurant space opens up to a view of the mountains through large windows. It must really be something during a snowfall.

There is only one burger on the menu, the Traverse Burger. It's an 8oz. Chuck Brisket blend, Churchill Sauce, Lettuce, Tomato, Pickled Onion, Pork Belly, Smoked Gouda. Fries were included. Just looking at the description makes my mouth water again. The 8oz is fully in tack when the burger arrives. Juicy, flavorful. Nothing is over the top. All the different layers mix well together. Just a bit pink, perfect. 

Rate It: 4+ of 5 This burger really came close to a 4.5. I can't recall why I couldn't except the price. It did include fries for what that's worth. Everything was delicious. 

The Lodge at Breckenridge  

 

Feeling A Little Bleu @ Cunningham's Journal-Kearny NE 09/14/2025

It was the second day on the road to Colorado and our last overnight would be spent in Kearny Nebraska. The drive from Iowa to Nebraska was mostly good except the wicked storm that almost brought traffic on the interstate to a halt. Our hotel was one of several in a cluster just off the freeway. There were all the usual offerings, Godfather's Pizza, Red Lobster etc, only a short walk away. We did a quick search of the area for something more local. Cunningham's Journal showed up. They had two locations, one was just behind our hotel, less than a block away. The menu looked good. They had quite the list of burger offerings. The restaurant also has a really nice deck/patio space that overlooks a "lake". Another storm was approaching so, no patio. 

Let's talk burger. I ordered the Ole Bleu Burger. 1/2 pound ground chuck patty, bleu cheese, crispy bacon. My request was to be cooked medium. It came as described, a bit of pink in the center. I did my traditional pinch of the patty without all the stuff on it. I couldn't help getting a bit of Bleu Cheese with. Very nicely seasoned, juicy. The bacon was a thicker cut than usual. The bun, sweet and it had a "split" in the center almost suggesting I cut it there. When I bit in to it, all the flavors came together. 

Rate It: 4+ of 5  Priced at $16, it's not crazy money for a decent burger at a nicer restaurant. The burger as a whole was really nicely done. I might go to the 4.5 level on a different day.

Cunningham's Journal @ The Lake 

 

Living the High Life in IOWA? el Bait Shop 09/13/2025

It was time to hit the road again. We were on a three day journey to Colorado. The first stop was Des Moines IA. Someone suggested that we try el Bait Shop for a delicious burger. Personally, I think it's a bit over the top, in the most loving way.  The menu, whoa! The burger is only part of the whole menu. They have Pot Roast, Liver and Onions and more. It's vast. 

Nestled in the downtown of Des Moines, IA is a friendly pub that would most likely be a destination for any beer lover. From the outside el Bait has a vibe of a crusty old warehouse converted to a grab some food and a beverage. There's an open bar off the parking lot. A patio and of course the main building. When you first enter the first thing you will notice is all the tappers. I can't even count how many taps they have for beers both local and national. Next, almost every surface has something stuck on it. Stickers from all kinds of breweries, ads from the decades for beer, toys etc. A huge mural that looks like an Ed Roth (Rat Fink) plus a wall with "Where the Wild Things Are"! The staff is on constant move checking in and following up. We had Kayla. She helped us navigate the beer list to create the perfect flight. 

How about the burger? I chose the Highlife Burger-Double. My wife had the single. The burger came out relatively quick. I pinched off a chunk. Not Bad. Plenty of flavor. I cut it in half. No pink? It was still juicy. They were frozen patties brought back to life. First bite, all the flavors. Cheese, onion, pickle, tomato,. The bun was nostalgic, similar to a George Webb burger. Not a wow but tasty. Comfortable. I probably could have done the single. The fries and tots were tasty.

Rate It: 3.5 of 5. Service, price, atmosphere and the choices of food and beers were amazing. The food was very good. Staff, worked hard.

el Bait Shop 

 

Being Crafty Again. Crafty Cow-Tosa 09/07/2025

Let's say you are celebrating your birthday like my sister-in-law. What better place to go than the Crafty Cow, Tosa. It was her suggestion, but you know I really enjoy a good burger. So, twist my arm! I'm not sure how many times I've had a burger at one of the Crafty Cow restaurants, 5? maybe more.

I went with the Classic Cow. 1/3 lb Crafty Beef Patty, American, Lettuce, Tomato, Onion, Pickles, Special Sauce. I've mentioned before that I'm not a big fan of "special sauce" in the description but that's how it's built. The Cow always does a decent burger. This wasn't one of their best but it was still a good one.

Rate It: 4 of 5 Crafty Cow is a consistent burger. The price is starting to out pace the sandwich. Service is always good. 

 

 

The Bucket-Kewaunee WI 05/22/2025

 Surprises are out there. You just need to look or maybe take a chance on a place. That's exactly how we came upon the Bucket in Kewaunee Wisconsin. You could easily pass it by. It's just off the main drag on a street that might think you are in the Old West. Older buildings that have been somewhat updated but they still maintain their original shape and size. Sort of cool. The sign out front "Char-broiled Hamburgers" Gotta love that. Homemade chili? I bet that's the good stuff.

It was a fairly simple decision to get a loaded cheeseburger. All the veggies, Tomato, Lettuce, Onion etc. Sitting at the bar or anywhere in the bar, you can see the guy cooking your order. He might have been the person that took your order. I would guess that quite a few of the folks in the bar were local and regulars. The burger came pretty quick. No, it's not hand formed from fresh ground meat but if you are looking for a decent cooked patty and bun, here you go! Prices were pretty unreal too. I think we paid North of $5.00. Outrageous! Of course I'm kidding. It's quite the value.

Rate It: 4 of 5

Between the staff being wonderful, the bar being just that, a bar and the nicely prepared food I think we got a deal that day.

 

Tucson, AZ-Where's My Lindy's on 4th? 02.25.2025

 Tucson Arizona has been a favorite place to go back to. Over the years we've found a couple of things that we have to do. We stop by the "Hut" bar to get a picture of the Easter Island statue out front, Goodwill on 4th Avenue, check out the "Hippy Gypsy" and grab a burger at Lindy's. Well, Lindy's has moved down the street (avenue) into a larger space. They now have more indoor seating and a nice outdoor dining space. It's sort of all grown up now. The old place was pretty simple, a hole in the wall. I can appreciate the upgrades.

I'm at Lindy's for the burger. I fell in love with their burger a long time ago. I can even recall how long ago it was. I'd like to say it was in the mid 0's. Again, a funky shop that offered crazy burgers at a decent price. Not only did they have fries but tater tots too! Did the move change things? The only difference was the location and the idea of sitting and waiting for your waiter to visit. That took a bit. We were alone on the patio for some time before our server stopped by. I ordered the Shroomin' Cow. Sauteed mushrooms, grilled onions, swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato and a pickle. It came out fairly quick. A bit of a surprise but not a bad surprise anyway. I'm not going to say it was loaded with flavor but it wasn't flat. The combination of flavors worked well together.

Rate It: 4 of 5 I'm going low on this one. Again, a tasty burger but I was expecting just a bit more flavor from the patty. The price is up, just like most places.

 

Leff's Again?? Yep, Burgers With Brothers! 03/24/2025

 It's that time again, Burgers With Brothers! It was the younger sibling's choice this time. He had recently dined at Leff,s and recalled they have a dang good burger. He wanted to put it to the test. Bring the brothers. Not that either of us is such an expert or critical thinker when it comes to burgers. We do enjoy them. I've been to Leff's plenty times. I don't always blog about the burger I had. You know I have a hard time not ordering a burger especially when they are a decent value.

Let's get down to it. Right? It was $8 Build Your Own Burger night. They offer quite a few toppings as part of the $8 deal. (see the pic of the list) I opted to have a double bacon cheeseburger because a guy near us had one and it looked awesome. So, that's the $8 BYOB with an additional patty for $4. I'm still ahead of the game financially. Their patties are 6oz each. I kept it simple, nothing but bacon and cheese. I'd add some spicy brown mustard and a drip of ketchup later after I taste the pure version. Yum! Tons of flavor without anything else on it. That's what I'm talkin' about. The condiments only enhanced it.

Rate It: 4.5 of 5 Flavor was there. Price was right. Overall a great burger.

Leff's

 

Barrio Brewing Tucson, AZ 02.24.2025

 We're back in Tucson, AZ! Tucson is one of those ever changing cities. It's been some time since I last visited Tucson and there are definitely more choices for dining in the area. What's even better, there's a brewery that serves some good grub. A friend of ours now lives in the Tucson area and suggested we meet at Barrio Brewery for dinner and a beer. He said that he's heard good things about the burgers. Whoa! If that isn't a challenge, I'm not sure what it is. Barrio is a cool scene. It's situated across a parking lot next to a railroad track. When a train goes by, beer is a $1 off! Well, I'm here for the burger. Let's get started. I got the Cheese Burger. Pretty straight forward. No frills. Cheddar was the choice. I'm going to cut to the chase, it was okay. Overall decent flavor. I was a little concerned that the bun may have been on the edge of being stale. Tasty fries.

Rate It: 4 of 5, maybe. Like I said, I think the bun could have been fresher and just a bit more flavor. Never be afraid to season your patty.

Barrio Brewing 

 

Pheonix, AZ-The Collins: A Fine Burger

 We were back in Arizona for some sunshine and warm temps. It was also our friend Beth's birthday. We decided to go out for dinner, someplace nice. I'm not sure why I always end up getting a burger when I'm at a place like The Collins in Pheonix, AZ. Their menu had quite a few wonderful offerings. No matter, I chose the Bistro Burger. (havarti . vine tomatoes . red onion . dressed arugula . dijon . mayo . noble brioche) It seemed to have more "basic" ingredients than the King's Burger. Cooked nearly perfect for my liking. I took a pinch of the patty alone to get the facts. What does it taste like without all the condiments etc. Pretty decent. A lot of smoke. The noble brioche? I wasn't sure what that is. A little research and I found that they are using a local bakery, Noble Bread based in Pheonix. Nice touch. 

By the way, Alice Cooper was in the booth right next to us.

Rate It: 4 of 5. I thought is was decent. Everything seemed fresh. I just wasn't feeling amazed. Maybe I was set up for something other world based on how good it looked?

The Collins

It's Gallery Night in the 3rd Ward. Must be time for some Wicked Hop! 01.17.2025

 It was the 3rd Friday in January. That means it's Gallery Night in the 3rd Ward, Milwaukee Wisconsin. Sometimes it's a very cold night. Not this time. Temps were in the 20's. (balmy for WI) I was hanging out with my friend Rob. We chose the Wicked Hop because, in the past, they've done right with the burger and beverages.

Burgers it is! "Build Your Own" Cheeseburger. Cheddar for me and Blue Cheese w/bacon for Rob. It was a quick turnaround on the order. Before we knew it, the burgers were delivered. Both of us were quite pleased with the amount of "pink". Too often, it doesn't go that way. All the toppings are on the side so you can choose what to add and where they go. I did everything but the pickle. Only a small amount of ketchup. I forgot to ask for some stone ground mustard. No matter, I pushed forward. It was pretty decent. Maybe not as good as the last 8 times. Something was different. Maybe it was an off night for my taste buds? I didn't hate it, that's for sure. Juicy, seasoned enough. The toppings were all fresh. The fries, delicious.

Rate It: 4 of 5 $18 for a very good burger has become the normal. I'm not a fan. It's the same burger or maybe less for more. That doesn't change the overall flavor. It was still great. Just not wow great.

Surprise! Hollaner Burger Hits the Spot! 12/22/2024

 I'm pretty sure I've blogged about Hollander Wauwatosa and the other Lowland Restaurants. I am also relatively sure that I didn't say anything outstanding about the experience. Well, that changed last Sunday evening. I just can't pass up the chance to enjoy a burger out. In the past the burger at Hollander has been at least satisfying. Not to much a gamble. I will like it. I ordered the "Sconnie". Pickles, bacon, Wisconsin aged cheddar, bier cheese aioli, cheese curds on a pretzel bun. (yes, meat too!) When it arrived it looked unlike other burgers I've ordered at Lowland restaurants. It's not a new selection. The curds tower on top of the bun. I cut it in half, perfect color. There's a lot of cheese. Remember, I'm not a fan of the Pretzel bun. The bun totally works with the flavors. I don't think another choice would stand up to all of what's going on with the Sconnie. Good combo.

Rate It: 4 of 5 (4+) Price was the usual. Flavors worked well together. Not too much sauce. Cooked to the perfect temp. I wish I took a picture. (thought I did) I'm sharing their picture from the Hollander website.

The Diplomat on Brady Street (Burgers w/Brothers!) 11.20.2024

 It was the third installation of the Burgers w/Brothers 2024. The eldest made the choice to go a bit more upscale for his burger. Not that we've been hanging out at dives or dumps. We've enjoyed quite the range of locations and varieties of burgers. His choice, The Diplomat. Located just East of Van Buren on Brady street. Cool vibe as soon as you walk in. There is a front space/bar area that's pretty chill. Around the corner is the dining room area. Well done. Warm, almost cozy space with plenty of art and little vignettes with interesting items. Our server was Roxanne. The menu is very simple, not many items. The idea is shared plates. I'm just not a fan of the term "small plates". Shared I can handle. Anyway, there is only one burger to choose from so that's what we all had. "The Diplomac". Prime beef burger, tomato, lettuce, American cheese, "1000 Island Dressing", pickle and red onion. (their description) $17 without a side.

How about that burger? Dang, it was good! I don't know if it was because I was surprised by how tidy it looked or the choice of roll/bun. No matter, it all worked together perfectly. The "1000 Island Dressing" is nothing like the Kraft foods version. All the condiments were freshly created on site. It made a difference for sure. The sandwich held together bite after bite. Nothing sliding out the back or slopping on to my plate or lap. I took a snitch off the side, just meat. Not crazy seasoned. Could have had a bit more flavor but maybe the rest of it makes up for that. We shared a plate of the Diplomat Fries. These aren't your average fries. Blanched and then fried 3 times. Light and crisp.

Rate it: 4.5 of 5

Overall great taste. Fresh ingredients made for a great mix of flavors. If I'm paying $17 a burger it should be like this.

https://www.thediplomatmke.com/

Smashing Good-Tide & Boar (Moncton Canada) 10/19/2024

 Yet another unintentional burger. 

We met a relative that gave us a tour of the city of Moncton Canada. She shared stories of relatives that had lived there and times past. Lunch was in order by the time we finished touring. Down the street from our hotel room was an interesting place called the Tide & Boar. It looked wonderful inside. The walls had photos of musicians like Roger Daltry, Bob Dylan and Neil Young. The beer selection is quite large. The menu is also diverse. Of course I saw they have a "smash" burger. I couldn't resist.Two patties, cheese, onion, red onion, "house" ketchup on a potato bun. Yum!

It looked beautiful. The patties were crispy on the edge and hanging out from under the bun. Cheese drooped over the edge of the patties. Cut open, all the layers of condiments were in good proportion. The patties had plenty of seasoning. Overall, excellent. The fries looked fresh cut.

Rate It: 4.5 of 5

Tide and Boar

 

 

Pump House is Here to Pump-You-Up! (Moncton Canada) 10/18/2024

 I really didn't plan to check out burgers in Canada. I was supposed to be going out for poutine rapée. The restaurant where they serve it closes at 6PM on a Friday night! It was a long day of driving and too late to go looking for another place serving it. Maybe we'll check out a local place for dinner and a beer. The Pump House was just a block away from where we were staying. Worth a shot? Sure.

It looked like the pizza might be a good choice but the list of burgers grabbed my attention. (go figure). Brew Pub Burger it is! A simple cheeseburger.It was. Good flavor, fresh roll and just enough toppings. Seasoning was decent. 

Rate It: 4 of 5

I'm thinking they aren't known for their burgers. It's more about the beer and pizza. It was a good burger and I'd suggest it for anybody that stops in. 

Pump House

Annual Trip to the Nite Owl 08/09/2024

 It might be a new tradition, at least one trip to the Nite Owl with my son's family. The Nite Owl has a limited window to get there and grab some food. The season seems short. Their hours, even shorter. The amount of food sold per hour determines how long they will be open on any given day. The meat is ground fresh on site and when it's gone, they close. They are closed on Sunday and Monday. Tuesday through Saturday, 11AM-3PM. I've heard of them closing by 1:30PM because they "sold out". The whole thing is just a total experience. Expect a long wait, it's not fast food. Arrive early, they might run out of meat. Bring cash.

How about the burger? I went with the plain cheese burger. No nothing on it. Actually, raw onions. On this day the wait wasn't too bad. Just enough time to catch up with my son and grandson. It's Theo's third time with grandpa. I'm pretty sure he and his dad stop there at least one time without me. We quick drove back to their house to enjoy our food on the sunny deck. My burger was just right. Juicy, decent size and loved having it plain. Very good. I will say that I was getting more of the "meatloaf" taste. Quickly, the meatloaf taste is when the burger has the same flavor as meatloaf. I'm not saying that's bad. I'm also not sure how they make their burgers. Do they add stuff to the beef? It was tasty no matter.

Rate it: 4+ out of 5

Prices are increasing each season but, that's business. ($3.90 in 2012) Overall, they still serve a decent if not great burger for a decent price. It's fresh food. The staff is always friendly. It's interesting that they still have you pay when the order is ready. Is that in case they run out of meat, they don't have to refund the money?

St Bibiana's-Burgers With Brothers 07/08/2024

 Three times a year my brothers and I get together for what we call "Burgers With Brothers". The brother that has the birthday is treated to a burger of his choosing. The process rotates through each brother's birthday. It was my turn again. Part of the BWB is to try something new. I check the burger listings for Milwaukee. I chose St Bibiana's because it had been ranked in the "8 Best Burgers" recently. Located on East Brady Street in one of Milwaukee's older neighborhoods it's definitely got the "cool" vibe. The inside feels like a local watering hole. Some nice touches are the church theme art etc. The menu has breakfast all day! Of course I'm not there for breakfast. This is a burger outing. I ordered the Bibiana Burger. Described on the menu: "Two 3-oz., handmade ground beef patties, American cheese, grilled onions, sliced pickles, and sweet, savory Saint Sauce on a sesame seed bun". So, not quite a half pound. I was a bit concerned about all the add-ons. The description made me think of Big Boy or McDonald's Big Mac. I'm not a fan of the "sauce" part but, it's their signature burger. Go with the flow! Ordered exactly like suggested, I found it to be okay. The patties got "lost" in the sauce and grilled onions. I did pinch off a chunk of the patty to see how it was on it's own. Fairly good, not great. I thought the price was a bit high for a couple of 3 ounce patties and an order of fries. 

Rate it: 3.5 out of 5. I'm being tough on this one. The price for the sandwich had me a bit off course. The burger itself was fine. Not anything to write home about, I guess it was blog worthy. I'd say, try it. It might be what you've been looking for.