A.V. Club's Milwaukee New Year's Eve guide
Get drunk one last time, before you can't afford to anymore
Parrrrrrty!
The economy's in the tank, but that doesn't mean you can't get tanked this New Year's Eve. There's something for everyone this year at Milwaukee bars and clubs, from Decibel's $250 VIP packages (for those still in denial about their impending lay-off) to the The Gig in Riverwest, offering entertainment and a champagne toast without a cover charge. Because New Year's Eve is amateur night, and we know amateurs need a guide, Decider has methodically listed damn near everything going on in Milwaukee to ring in the new year. So hop on the bus (come on, it's free on New Year's Eve!) and go get your drink on. Because who knows what 2009 will be like?
Art Bar
722 E. Burleigh St., 372-7880
10pm, $6 (two for $10), 21+
Groove to the relaxed yet hip atmosphere of Riverwest’s beloved hangout, Art Bar, which has live music from Cobalt & The Hired Guns. Stick around for the 2 a.m. breakfast buffet.
722 E. Burleigh St., 372-7880
10pm, $6 (two for $10), 21+
Groove to the relaxed yet hip atmosphere of Riverwest’s beloved hangout, Art Bar, which has live music from Cobalt & The Hired Guns. Stick around for the 2 a.m. breakfast buffet.
Balzac
1716 N. Arlington Place, 755-0099
Prix fixe dinner includes wine and a four-course meal for two people.
1716 N. Arlington Place, 755-0099
Prix fixe dinner includes wine and a four-course meal for two people.
BBC
2022 E. North Ave., 272-7263
8pm, $15, 21+
BBC has all your New Year’s celebration needs covered, with live music from The Cocksmiths, Invade Rome, and The Delta Routine, and a great party atmosphere.
2022 E. North Ave., 272-7263
8pm, $15, 21+
BBC has all your New Year’s celebration needs covered, with live music from The Cocksmiths, Invade Rome, and The Delta Routine, and a great party atmosphere.
Bootleggers
1025 N. Old World Third St., 347-2337
7pm, $20+, 21+
Come for a bar crawl with Buckhead Saloon, where one ticket gets you into both places. There’s also an open bar from 7 to 8 p.m., a free appetizer buffet from 7 to 9 p.m., party favors, and a champagne toast at midnight.
1025 N. Old World Third St., 347-2337
7pm, $20+, 21+
Come for a bar crawl with Buckhead Saloon, where one ticket gets you into both places. There’s also an open bar from 7 to 8 p.m., a free appetizer buffet from 7 to 9 p.m., party favors, and a champagne toast at midnight.
Bosley
815 E Brady St., 727-7975
4pm, free, all ages
The taste and atmosphere of the Florida Keys right on Brady Street.
Reservations strongly recommended.
815 E Brady St., 727-7975
4pm, free, all ages
The taste and atmosphere of the Florida Keys right on Brady Street.
Reservations strongly recommended.
Buca di Beppo
1233 N. Van Buren, 224-8672
11am-11pm, all ages
It’s business as usual at Buca, though reservations might be a good idea to beat the pre-party rush. New menu items featured.
1233 N. Van Buren, 224-8672
11am-11pm, all ages
It’s business as usual at Buca, though reservations might be a good idea to beat the pre-party rush. New menu items featured.
Buckhead Saloon
1044 N. Old World Third St., 390-0233
7pm, $20+, 21+
Come for a bar crawl with Bootleggers, where one ticket gets you into both places. There’s also an open bar from 7 to 8 p.m., a free appetizer buffet from 7 to 9 p.m., party favors, and a champagne toast at midnight.
1044 N. Old World Third St., 390-0233
7pm, $20+, 21+
Come for a bar crawl with Bootleggers, where one ticket gets you into both places. There’s also an open bar from 7 to 8 p.m., a free appetizer buffet from 7 to 9 p.m., party favors, and a champagne toast at midnight.
Café Centraal
2306 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., 755-0378
5pm, 21+
Come for the three-course New Year’s Eve prix fixe menu. (A full menu is also available.) Dinner served 5 p.m. to midnight. Reservations recommended. There’s also a midnight toast, drink specials all night, and free party favors.
2306 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., 755-0378
5pm, 21+
Come for the three-course New Year’s Eve prix fixe menu. (A full menu is also available.) Dinner served 5 p.m. to midnight. Reservations recommended. There’s also a midnight toast, drink specials all night, and free party favors.
Cafe Hollander
2608 N. Downer Ave, 963-6343
6pm
Prix fixe dinner, beer flights beginning at 10 p.m., and champagne toast at midnight.
2608 N. Downer Ave, 963-6343
6pm
Prix fixe dinner, beer flights beginning at 10 p.m., and champagne toast at midnight.
Caffrey’s
717 N. 16th St., 933-9047
8pm, free, 21+
Roll in the new year with a midnight champagne toast, drink specials, and tons of balloons and party favors without worrying about a cover charge.
717 N. 16th St., 933-9047
8pm, free, 21+
Roll in the new year with a midnight champagne toast, drink specials, and tons of balloons and party favors without worrying about a cover charge.
Carleton Grange Pub
3807 S. Packard Ave., 747-9669
11:30am, free, all ages
Ring in the new year at this traditional English pub, which will have a regular menu plus drink specials.
3807 S. Packard Ave., 747-9669
11:30am, free, all ages
Ring in the new year at this traditional English pub, which will have a regular menu plus drink specials.
Cielito Lindo
733 S. Second St., 649-0401
8am, free, all ages (restaurant) 21+ (bar)
Food and margarita specials in restaurant; live DJ, party favors, and a free midnight champagne toast in bar.
733 S. Second St., 649-0401
8am, free, all ages (restaurant) 21+ (bar)
Food and margarita specials in restaurant; live DJ, party favors, and a free midnight champagne toast in bar.
Club Anything
807 S. Fifth St., 383-5680
9pm, $5, 21+
Zombie Masquerade with free buffet, champagne toast, party favors, and balloon drop. Drink specials for zombies.
807 S. Fifth St., 383-5680
9pm, $5, 21+
Zombie Masquerade with free buffet, champagne toast, party favors, and balloon drop. Drink specials for zombies.
Club Brady
1339 E. Brady St., 278-0188
9pm, $40 (optional), 21+
Come for the comfortable atmosphere without the traditional New Year’s
insanity, and stay for the $40 open bar special.
1339 E. Brady St., 278-0188
9pm, $40 (optional), 21+
Come for the comfortable atmosphere without the traditional New Year’s
insanity, and stay for the $40 open bar special.
Club Timbuktu
520 E. Center St., 265-7004
8 p.m., $10, 21+
School is in session with Reggae 101, featuring five DJs spinning records until the sun comes up.
520 E. Center St., 265-7004
8 p.m., $10, 21+
School is in session with Reggae 101, featuring five DJs spinning records until the sun comes up.
The Coffee House
631 N. 19th St., 299-9598
8pm, free, all ages
Live music and poetry with The Coffee House’s smoke- and alcohol-free acoustic/spoken-word open stage.
631 N. 19th St., 299-9598
8pm, free, all ages
Live music and poetry with The Coffee House’s smoke- and alcohol-free acoustic/spoken-word open stage.
Comedy Café
615 E. Brady St., 271-5653
8 & 10pm, $15 per person and $30 per couple (early), $25 per person or $50 per couple (late), 21+
Enjoy outrageous comedy either early or late from headliners Kevin Williams and Scott Papacuri; reservations are recommended. The late show includes a champagne toast, party favors, and gift certificates.
615 E. Brady St., 271-5653
8 & 10pm, $15 per person and $30 per couple (early), $25 per person or $50 per couple (late), 21+
Enjoy outrageous comedy either early or late from headliners Kevin Williams and Scott Papacuri; reservations are recommended. The late show includes a champagne toast, party favors, and gift certificates.
ComedySportz
420 S. First St., 272-8888
8 & 10:30pm, $35, all ages
Laugh your way into 2009 at ComedySportz, which is performing two shows as well as offering a buffet, free champagne, and party gifts.
420 S. First St., 272-8888
8 & 10:30pm, $35, all ages
Laugh your way into 2009 at ComedySportz, which is performing two shows as well as offering a buffet, free champagne, and party gifts.
Decibel
1905 E North Ave., 272-3337
8pm, $250+, 21+
Come for a Roaring '20s New Years Eve Party, with live jazz until 11
p.m., and DJs after that. VIP Packages are available starting at $250
for four people.
1905 E North Ave., 272-3337
8pm, $250+, 21+
Come for a Roaring '20s New Years Eve Party, with live jazz until 11
p.m., and DJs after that. VIP Packages are available starting at $250
for four people.
Dukes On Water
158 E. Juneau Ave., 221-0625
4pm, free, 21+
Dukes will serve up a crazy party atmosphere, so come prepared to throw down.
158 E. Juneau Ave., 221-0625
4pm, free, 21+
Dukes will serve up a crazy party atmosphere, so come prepared to throw down.
Fanatics Sports Central
185 N. Jefferson, 220-8336
$10, 21+
Same cover all night, with free domestics on tap and cocktails from 9 to 11 p.m.
185 N. Jefferson, 220-8336
$10, 21+
Same cover all night, with free domestics on tap and cocktails from 9 to 11 p.m.
Fat Abbey
134 E. Juneau, 755-0333
8pm, free, 21+
DJ Brooks will be spinning in the upstairs lounge. There’s also drink and food specials, and party favors. Reservations encouraged.
134 E. Juneau, 755-0333
8pm, free, 21+
DJ Brooks will be spinning in the upstairs lounge. There’s also drink and food specials, and party favors. Reservations encouraged.
Fitzgibbons
1127 N. Water St., 278-8847
11am, free, 21+
Fitzgibbons’ dress code specifies that patrons wear clothes... at least when they come in the door. And if that doesn’t say “party,” what does?
1127 N. Water St., 278-8847
11am, free, 21+
Fitzgibbons’ dress code specifies that patrons wear clothes... at least when they come in the door. And if that doesn’t say “party,” what does?
Flannery’s
425 E. Wells St., 278-8586
$5, 21+
Champagne toast and complimentary buffet at 2 a.m. Open until 5 a.m.
425 E. Wells St., 278-8586
$5, 21+
Champagne toast and complimentary buffet at 2 a.m. Open until 5 a.m.
Fluid
819 S. Second St., 643-5843
5pm, 21+
Come for some all-night New Year’s Eve fun at this Walker’s Point bar.
819 S. Second St., 643-5843
5pm, 21+
Come for some all-night New Year’s Eve fun at this Walker’s Point bar.
Frank’s Power Plant
2800 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., 481-9200
10pm, 21+
Hang out with the neighborhood crowd and enjoy free champagne at midnight and party favors.
2800 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., 481-9200
10pm, 21+
Hang out with the neighborhood crowd and enjoy free champagne at midnight and party favors.
The Gig
1132 E. Wright St., 562-0219
9pm, free, 21+
Riverwest hangout The Gig has DJ’s Chalice in the Palace, party favors, and champagne at midnight.
1132 E. Wright St., 562-0219
9pm, free, 21+
Riverwest hangout The Gig has DJ’s Chalice in the Palace, party favors, and champagne at midnight.
The Good Life
1935 N. Water St., 271-5375
9pm, $5, 21+
The dance party includes DJs, tropical drink specials, free food, and champagne.
1935 N. Water St., 271-5375
9pm, $5, 21+
The dance party includes DJs, tropical drink specials, free food, and champagne.
Harp Irish Pub
113 E Juneau Ave, 289-0700
Free, 21+
Visit the new Harp and ring in the new year with complimentary party favors and a free champagne toast at midnight.
113 E Juneau Ave, 289-0700
Free, 21+
Visit the new Harp and ring in the new year with complimentary party favors and a free champagne toast at midnight.
Harry’s Bar And Grill
3549 N. Oakland Ave. (Shorewood), 964-6800
5pm, free, all ages
Harry’s promises a casual yet refined New Year’s experience, with a live DJ and dance floor, special menu items, and midnight champagne toast.
3549 N. Oakland Ave. (Shorewood), 964-6800
5pm, free, all ages
Harry’s promises a casual yet refined New Year’s experience, with a live DJ and dance floor, special menu items, and midnight champagne toast.
Hi Hat Lounge & Garage
1701 N. Arlington Place, 414-225-9330
3pm, $10, 21+
Open until 5 a.m., with DJs, buffet, and a midnight champagne toast.
Historic Turner Restaurant
1034 North Fourth Street, 276-4844
Free, all ages
New Year’s Eve will be celebrated in style, with a special menu, complimentary party favors, and champagne toast at midnight.
Hooligan’s
2017 E. North Ave., 273-5230
11am, free, 21+
Spend New Year’s at Hooligan’s, one of the East Side’s longest-running meeting places. Get there on New Year’s Eve for a full day of partying, and return at 8 a.m. New Year’s Day for a new bout of celebration.
Hot Water/Wherehouse
818 S Water St., 383-7593
$15 in advance, $20 at the door, 21+
Enjoy DJ and salsa music at this hot nightspot.
Judge’s Irish Pub
1431 E. North Ave., 224-0605
9pm, $40 (optional), 21+
If you want a wild and crazy New Year’s Eve you might not remember, look no further than Judge’s, a good-time party tavern that’s offering an open bar special for $40.
Karma
600 East Ogden Ave
8pm, $50, 21+
Open bar with DJ spinning classic ’80s to Top 40. Reservations recommended.
Kelly’s Bleachers
5218 W. Bluemound Rd., 258-9837
5pm, 21+
DJ and early-bird buffet (6 to 9 p.m.), with party favors and free champagne toast.
Kelly’s Bleachers II
7805 S. Loomis Rd. (Wind Lake), 262-895-3353
8pm, $75 ($30 after midnight), 21+
The $75 package gets you an open bar from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m., live music by Black Top Kings, party favors, and pizza buffet.
The Knick
1030 E. Juneau, 272-0011
5pm, free, all ages
A casual yet refined New Year’s experience, with a live DJ, special menu items, and midnight champagne toast.
Lee’s Luxury Lounge
2988 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., 481-2080
7pm, free, 21+
Lee’s has food, party favors, and a champagne toast at midnight.
Leff’s Lucky Town
7208 W. State St. (Wauwatosa), 258-2886
10pm, free, 21+
It’s a New Year’s dance party at Leff’s Lucky Town, with a DJ, champagne toast, and $2.50 Mexican imports and margaritas.
Liquor Sweets
3000 S. 13th St., 384-0777
9pm, $15, 21+
Milwaukee's only multi-club complex will have
live music starting at 8 p.m. and lasting well into the morning.
Don't miss the official Stellar Spark VI afterparty starting at 1 a.m., featuring Michael Wenz, Adonis and many others.
Live On North
2028 E. North Ave., 765-0101
4pm, free, 21+
Party favors, a free champagne toast, and free appetizers after midnight. DJ Kid playing from 10 p.m. until 2 a.m. Open until 5 a.m.
Louise’s
801 N. Jefferson St., 273-4224
275 Regency Ct., 262-784-4275
11am, free, all ages
New Year’s Eve will be celebrated in style at both Louise’s locations, with a special menu, complimentary party favors, and champagne toast at midnight.
Lucille’s Rockin’ Pianos
110 Old World Third St., 225-0304
5pm, $40-$60, 21+
VIP packages include open bar from 8 to 11 p.m., free appetizers at 10 p.m., and a free champagne toast and party favors at midnight. The after-party features $1 shots after midnight.
Lulu
2265 S. Howell Ave., 294-5858
10:30pm, 21+
Come for live music by The Uptown Savages. Enjoy a champagne toast at midnight and late-night snacks.
Mad Planet
533 E. Center St., 263-4555
9pm, $10, 21+
Dance into the new year with hits of yesteryear at Mad Planet’s retro dance party. There’s complimentary food and a champagne toast at midnight.
Mason Street Grill
425 E. Mason St., 298-3131
5pm, free, all ages
Check out Mason Street Grill’s impressive wine collection and classic American menu. Call ahead to make reservations.
Mi-Keys
811 N. Jefferson
9pm, free, 21+
Featuring E-13 from 10:30 p.m. to 4 a.m., DJ, raffles, and champagne toast.
Milwaukee Ale House
223 N. Water St., 226-2337
8pm, $10, 21+
The popular Third Ward restaurant and bar welcomes back cover band Old Mil for its New Year’s Eve party, which includes a beer toast, party favors, and dinner specials.
Murphy’s
1613 N. Wells St., 344-0116
8pm, free, 21+
Roll in the new year with a midnight champagne toast, tons of balloons and party favors, and drink specials all night long.
Nice Ash
327 W. Main St. (Waukesha), 262-547-9009
9pm, free, 21+
Champagne toast at midnight and live music from the band Advance all night long.
Nomad World Pub
1401 E. Brady St., 224-8111
2pm, free, 21+
This year’s 14th annual New Year’s Eve bash features a free champagne toast at midnight, “recession-proof” drink specials, and the Nomad MEAT raffle. (That’s free raw meat for every winning ticket. Proceeds go to charity.)
Oakland Trattoria
2856 N. Oakland Ave., 964-2850
11am, free, all ages
New Year’s Eve will be celebrated in style, with a special menu, complimentary party favors, and champagne toast at midnight.
Old German Beer Hall
1009 N. Old World Third St., 272-3625
11am, free, 21+
The Old German Beer Hall celebrates the new year Hofbrauhaus style. It’s gold, it’s fizzy, it’s beer—Herzlichen Gluckwunsch zum Neues Jahr—with a free HB beer toast at midnight. No cover and live music with Sigmund Snopek and Michael Woods.
Pabst Theater
144 E. Wells St
10:30pm, $55-$85, all ages
Comedian Jim Gaffigan heads up the New Year’s celebration at the Pabst Theater, complete with a free champagne toast, midnight countdown, balloon drop, and party favors.
Palm Tavern
2989 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., 744-0393
7pm, 21+
This cozy neighborhood bar specializes in Belgian beer and world-class whiskeys.
Piano Blu
179 W. Wisconsin Ave. (Pewaukee), 691-0200
5pm, 21+
Enjoy live music by Duchie Rodgers from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Rascal’s
2311 N. Murray Ave., 224-7084
11am, free, 21+
Everyone is a VIP at Rascal’s: Come before 9 p.m. for the happy hour, featuring $1 domestic taps and rail drinks, and stay all night. There’s even a free champagne toast at midnight.
1701 N. Arlington Place, 414-225-9330
3pm, $10, 21+
Open until 5 a.m., with DJs, buffet, and a midnight champagne toast.
Historic Turner Restaurant
1034 North Fourth Street, 276-4844
Free, all ages
New Year’s Eve will be celebrated in style, with a special menu, complimentary party favors, and champagne toast at midnight.
Hooligan’s
2017 E. North Ave., 273-5230
11am, free, 21+
Spend New Year’s at Hooligan’s, one of the East Side’s longest-running meeting places. Get there on New Year’s Eve for a full day of partying, and return at 8 a.m. New Year’s Day for a new bout of celebration.
Hot Water/Wherehouse
818 S Water St., 383-7593
$15 in advance, $20 at the door, 21+
Enjoy DJ and salsa music at this hot nightspot.
Judge’s Irish Pub
1431 E. North Ave., 224-0605
9pm, $40 (optional), 21+
If you want a wild and crazy New Year’s Eve you might not remember, look no further than Judge’s, a good-time party tavern that’s offering an open bar special for $40.
Karma
600 East Ogden Ave
8pm, $50, 21+
Open bar with DJ spinning classic ’80s to Top 40. Reservations recommended.
Kelly’s Bleachers
5218 W. Bluemound Rd., 258-9837
5pm, 21+
DJ and early-bird buffet (6 to 9 p.m.), with party favors and free champagne toast.
Kelly’s Bleachers II
7805 S. Loomis Rd. (Wind Lake), 262-895-3353
8pm, $75 ($30 after midnight), 21+
The $75 package gets you an open bar from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m., live music by Black Top Kings, party favors, and pizza buffet.
The Knick
1030 E. Juneau, 272-0011
5pm, free, all ages
A casual yet refined New Year’s experience, with a live DJ, special menu items, and midnight champagne toast.
Lee’s Luxury Lounge
2988 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., 481-2080
7pm, free, 21+
Lee’s has food, party favors, and a champagne toast at midnight.
Leff’s Lucky Town
7208 W. State St. (Wauwatosa), 258-2886
10pm, free, 21+
It’s a New Year’s dance party at Leff’s Lucky Town, with a DJ, champagne toast, and $2.50 Mexican imports and margaritas.
Liquor Sweets
3000 S. 13th St., 384-0777
9pm, $15, 21+
Milwaukee's only multi-club complex will have
live music starting at 8 p.m. and lasting well into the morning.
Don't miss the official Stellar Spark VI afterparty starting at 1 a.m., featuring Michael Wenz, Adonis and many others.
Live On North
2028 E. North Ave., 765-0101
4pm, free, 21+
Party favors, a free champagne toast, and free appetizers after midnight. DJ Kid playing from 10 p.m. until 2 a.m. Open until 5 a.m.
Louise’s
801 N. Jefferson St., 273-4224
275 Regency Ct., 262-784-4275
11am, free, all ages
New Year’s Eve will be celebrated in style at both Louise’s locations, with a special menu, complimentary party favors, and champagne toast at midnight.
Lucille’s Rockin’ Pianos
110 Old World Third St., 225-0304
5pm, $40-$60, 21+
VIP packages include open bar from 8 to 11 p.m., free appetizers at 10 p.m., and a free champagne toast and party favors at midnight. The after-party features $1 shots after midnight.
Lulu
2265 S. Howell Ave., 294-5858
10:30pm, 21+
Come for live music by The Uptown Savages. Enjoy a champagne toast at midnight and late-night snacks.
Mad Planet
533 E. Center St., 263-4555
9pm, $10, 21+
Dance into the new year with hits of yesteryear at Mad Planet’s retro dance party. There’s complimentary food and a champagne toast at midnight.
Mason Street Grill
425 E. Mason St., 298-3131
5pm, free, all ages
Check out Mason Street Grill’s impressive wine collection and classic American menu. Call ahead to make reservations.
Mi-Keys
811 N. Jefferson
9pm, free, 21+
Featuring E-13 from 10:30 p.m. to 4 a.m., DJ, raffles, and champagne toast.
Milwaukee Ale House
223 N. Water St., 226-2337
8pm, $10, 21+
The popular Third Ward restaurant and bar welcomes back cover band Old Mil for its New Year’s Eve party, which includes a beer toast, party favors, and dinner specials.
Murphy’s
1613 N. Wells St., 344-0116
8pm, free, 21+
Roll in the new year with a midnight champagne toast, tons of balloons and party favors, and drink specials all night long.
Nice Ash
327 W. Main St. (Waukesha), 262-547-9009
9pm, free, 21+
Champagne toast at midnight and live music from the band Advance all night long.
Nomad World Pub
1401 E. Brady St., 224-8111
2pm, free, 21+
This year’s 14th annual New Year’s Eve bash features a free champagne toast at midnight, “recession-proof” drink specials, and the Nomad MEAT raffle. (That’s free raw meat for every winning ticket. Proceeds go to charity.)
Oakland Trattoria
2856 N. Oakland Ave., 964-2850
11am, free, all ages
New Year’s Eve will be celebrated in style, with a special menu, complimentary party favors, and champagne toast at midnight.
Old German Beer Hall
1009 N. Old World Third St., 272-3625
11am, free, 21+
The Old German Beer Hall celebrates the new year Hofbrauhaus style. It’s gold, it’s fizzy, it’s beer—Herzlichen Gluckwunsch zum Neues Jahr—with a free HB beer toast at midnight. No cover and live music with Sigmund Snopek and Michael Woods.
Pabst Theater
144 E. Wells St
10:30pm, $55-$85, all ages
Comedian Jim Gaffigan heads up the New Year’s celebration at the Pabst Theater, complete with a free champagne toast, midnight countdown, balloon drop, and party favors.
Palm Tavern
2989 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., 744-0393
7pm, 21+
This cozy neighborhood bar specializes in Belgian beer and world-class whiskeys.
Piano Blu
179 W. Wisconsin Ave. (Pewaukee), 691-0200
5pm, 21+
Enjoy live music by Duchie Rodgers from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Rascal’s
2311 N. Murray Ave., 224-7084
11am, free, 21+
Everyone is a VIP at Rascal’s: Come before 9 p.m. for the happy hour, featuring $1 domestic taps and rail drinks, and stay all night. There’s even a free champagne toast at midnight.
RC’s Bar
1530 E. North Ave., 273-1100
5pm, free, 21+
Ring in the new year at an old-school hangout like RC’s Bar, which will have party favors and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight.
Rip Tide
649 E. Erie St., 271-8433
4pm, free-$40, 21+
No cover and free parking at this lakeside restaurant. Rip Tide serves up its full menu from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. with great surf and turf specials. Southbound plays your favorite tunes starting at 10 p.m. Buy a wristband for $40 and drink all you can from 9:30 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Riverside Theater
116 W. Wisconsin Ave
7pm, $55-$75, all ages
Hosted by 102.1’s Kramp and Adler, the non-stop action at the Riverside Theater features Cake returning to headline New Year’s Eve, along with Milwaukee’s greatest polka bands, an onstage dog show, The Point Beir Garden and The Bodacious Bier Maidens, and of course a midnight countdown and balloon drop.
Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery
740 N. Plankinton Ave., 276-3030
9pm, $85, 21+
Plan to dress to impress at Rock Bottom's New Year's Eve celebration, which will have a DJ and dancing downstairs, popular Milwaukee cover band The Love Monkeys upstairs, and an open bar and appetizer buffet everywhere.
Rooters
901 Northview Rd, 262-544-9600
8pm, $20 advance ticket ($25 day of), 21+
Step back in time to the ’80s with live music by Cherry Pie, and greet the new year with Rooters’ late-night buffet, party favors, and midnight champagne toast. Call for VIP packages including free open bar, hotel, and transportation.
Rosie’s Waterworks
1111 N. Water St., 274-7213
3pm, free, 21+
Join the revelers at Rosie’s and enjoy drink specials and a free champagne toast at midnight.
The Safe House
779 N. Front St., 271-2007
11am, $15 (after 8pm), 21+
Come to Milwaukee’s “secret” treasure at 3 p.m. for a special round-the-world toast. And stick around for a night of spy-tastic fun with a special New Year’s menu, DJ, dancing, champagne, party favors, and hats.
Smokeys Riverwest Cocktail Lounge
2425 N. Dousman St., 264-9376
Free
Chill in the Riverwest’s best old-school cocktail lounge and bring in the new year while sipping a delicious martini or cocktail. There’s also complimentary champagne at midnight, along with great drink specials and food.
Steny’s
800 S. Second St., 672-7139
7pm, free, 21+
Steny’s has music by The J & B Sound Machine, a free champagne toast at midnight, a balloon drop, and party favors.
Sugar Maple
441 E. Lincoln Ave., 481-2393
7pm, 21+
This Bay View bar has 60 great American microbrews on tap. Come for beer specials in a smoke-free environment.
Three
722 N. Milwaukee St., 225-0003
8pm, $25, 21+
Enjoy New Year’s Eve at Three with fine fare, champagne, and great music from James Amato, John Hawley, Samonik, Erik Lee, Fortune, and a DJ after-party from 5 a.m. till 11 a.m.
The Tracks
1020 E. Locust St., 562-2020
9pm, free, 21+
Enjoy party favors and a midnight champagne toast.
Trinity Three Irish Pubs
125 E. Juneau, 278-7033
10pm, free, 21+
Enjoy a special menu, complimentary party favors, a free champagne toast at midnight, and live music by Micah Olsan starting at 10 p.m.
Trocadero
1758 N. Water St., 272-0205
4pm, 21+
This East Side restaurant offers Casino Night in the upstairs lounge, a special prix fixe menu, drink specials, and a midnight champagne toast.
Uptowner
1032 E. Center St., 372-3882
11am, free, 21+
Come to this Riverwest hangout for a champagne toast at midnight.
Victor’s On Van Buren
1230 N. Van Buren, 272-2522
3pm, 21+
Victor’s packs 24 hours with the best in dining, party favors, drink specials, dance music, and fun. A service industry worker favorite.
Vitucci's
1832 E. North Ave., 273-6477
4pm., $5 (No cover after 12 a.m.), 21+
There will be free food, lots of party favors, and a midnight champagne toast.
Walker’s Pint
818 S. Second St., 643-7468
10pm, free, 21+
Party favors, a champagne/beer toast at midnight, and music from DJ Nikki Bomb.
Water Street Brewery
1101 N. Water St., 272-1195
3191 Gold Rd., 262-646-7878
11am, free, all ages
New Year’s Eve will be celebrated in style, with a special menu, complimentary party favors, and champagne toast at midnight.
Yaffa Restaurant And Lounge
106 W. Wells St., 223-0101
4pm, free, all ages
Enjoy delicious, moderately priced steaks, chops, and seafood from a special New Year’s dinner menu along with live music and complimentary champagne toast at midnight.
Y-Not III
1854 E. Kenilworth, 224-9668
12pm, free, 21+
The bar opens noon New Year’s Eve and doesn’t close until 2 a.m. January 2.
1530 E. North Ave., 273-1100
5pm, free, 21+
Ring in the new year at an old-school hangout like RC’s Bar, which will have party favors and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight.
Rip Tide
649 E. Erie St., 271-8433
4pm, free-$40, 21+
No cover and free parking at this lakeside restaurant. Rip Tide serves up its full menu from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. with great surf and turf specials. Southbound plays your favorite tunes starting at 10 p.m. Buy a wristband for $40 and drink all you can from 9:30 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Riverside Theater
116 W. Wisconsin Ave
7pm, $55-$75, all ages
Hosted by 102.1’s Kramp and Adler, the non-stop action at the Riverside Theater features Cake returning to headline New Year’s Eve, along with Milwaukee’s greatest polka bands, an onstage dog show, The Point Beir Garden and The Bodacious Bier Maidens, and of course a midnight countdown and balloon drop.
Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery
740 N. Plankinton Ave., 276-3030
9pm, $85, 21+
Plan to dress to impress at Rock Bottom's New Year's Eve celebration, which will have a DJ and dancing downstairs, popular Milwaukee cover band The Love Monkeys upstairs, and an open bar and appetizer buffet everywhere.
Rooters
901 Northview Rd, 262-544-9600
8pm, $20 advance ticket ($25 day of), 21+
Step back in time to the ’80s with live music by Cherry Pie, and greet the new year with Rooters’ late-night buffet, party favors, and midnight champagne toast. Call for VIP packages including free open bar, hotel, and transportation.
Rosie’s Waterworks
1111 N. Water St., 274-7213
3pm, free, 21+
Join the revelers at Rosie’s and enjoy drink specials and a free champagne toast at midnight.
The Safe House
779 N. Front St., 271-2007
11am, $15 (after 8pm), 21+
Come to Milwaukee’s “secret” treasure at 3 p.m. for a special round-the-world toast. And stick around for a night of spy-tastic fun with a special New Year’s menu, DJ, dancing, champagne, party favors, and hats.
Smokeys Riverwest Cocktail Lounge
2425 N. Dousman St., 264-9376
Free
Chill in the Riverwest’s best old-school cocktail lounge and bring in the new year while sipping a delicious martini or cocktail. There’s also complimentary champagne at midnight, along with great drink specials and food.
Steny’s
800 S. Second St., 672-7139
7pm, free, 21+
Steny’s has music by The J & B Sound Machine, a free champagne toast at midnight, a balloon drop, and party favors.
Sugar Maple
441 E. Lincoln Ave., 481-2393
7pm, 21+
This Bay View bar has 60 great American microbrews on tap. Come for beer specials in a smoke-free environment.
Three
722 N. Milwaukee St., 225-0003
8pm, $25, 21+
Enjoy New Year’s Eve at Three with fine fare, champagne, and great music from James Amato, John Hawley, Samonik, Erik Lee, Fortune, and a DJ after-party from 5 a.m. till 11 a.m.
The Tracks
1020 E. Locust St., 562-2020
9pm, free, 21+
Enjoy party favors and a midnight champagne toast.
Trinity Three Irish Pubs
125 E. Juneau, 278-7033
10pm, free, 21+
Enjoy a special menu, complimentary party favors, a free champagne toast at midnight, and live music by Micah Olsan starting at 10 p.m.
Trocadero
1758 N. Water St., 272-0205
4pm, 21+
This East Side restaurant offers Casino Night in the upstairs lounge, a special prix fixe menu, drink specials, and a midnight champagne toast.
Uptowner
1032 E. Center St., 372-3882
11am, free, 21+
Come to this Riverwest hangout for a champagne toast at midnight.
Victor’s On Van Buren
1230 N. Van Buren, 272-2522
3pm, 21+
Victor’s packs 24 hours with the best in dining, party favors, drink specials, dance music, and fun. A service industry worker favorite.
Vitucci's
1832 E. North Ave., 273-6477
4pm., $5 (No cover after 12 a.m.), 21+
There will be free food, lots of party favors, and a midnight champagne toast.
Walker’s Pint
818 S. Second St., 643-7468
10pm, free, 21+
Party favors, a champagne/beer toast at midnight, and music from DJ Nikki Bomb.
Water Street Brewery
1101 N. Water St., 272-1195
3191 Gold Rd., 262-646-7878
11am, free, all ages
New Year’s Eve will be celebrated in style, with a special menu, complimentary party favors, and champagne toast at midnight.
Yaffa Restaurant And Lounge
106 W. Wells St., 223-0101
4pm, free, all ages
Enjoy delicious, moderately priced steaks, chops, and seafood from a special New Year’s dinner menu along with live music and complimentary champagne toast at midnight.
Y-Not III
1854 E. Kenilworth, 224-9668
12pm, free, 21+
The bar opens noon New Year’s Eve and doesn’t close until 2 a.m. January 2.
