Gil's Cafe & Grill

Although I really like the atmosphere and food at Gil's, I have to say the service is slightly lacking. But I still go there with this knowledge, as I still enjoy everything else they have to offer. One of my favorite things is the Blackened Chicken Sandwich, which is a chicken breast with guacamole and jack cheese served on a yummy bun with the BEST fries! This sandwich sounds basic but it never disappoints. I also enjoy all of Gil's soups, and their artichoke dip. This is also a great place to go in the summer, because you can sit outside and watch the action on Downer Avenue. This place is definitely an East Side landmark. more

Gil's is an excellent Eastside Milwaukee fixture - a real treasure for get-togethers in this part of town. The bar is almost always crowded, but cozy. If you can get here early, or on the rare occasion that Gil's isn't packed - it really is an exceptional spot to sit and sip (espresso or beer). The menu is good and pretty standard for a yuppy/eclectic/creative/American/Cafe fare. Good vegetarian choices, and good comfort food. Good brunch too. Occasional music performance is a plus, but again, Gil's is lacking in square footage. This makes for an intimate but somewhat clausterphobic dining experience. A good date restaurant; take a stroll down Downer Ave. before or after dinner and maybe catch a movie across the street! Service is somewhat snooty which is not the norm in Milwaukee and doesn't seem to fit with the casual Eastside vibe at Gil's. more