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Swingin' Door Exchange

4.6
·491k reviews·,

A historic Milwaukee saloon since 1933, offering a cozy atmosphere and classic American comfort food.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
the bar

Swingin' Door Exchange

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Milwaukee saloon since 1933, offering a cozy atmosphere and classic American comfort food.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"This cozy haunt with old-school, saloon-like decor serves cocktails & American comfort food."

TIP

Arrive Early for Brunch

Beat the crowds by arriving right at opening time for weekend brunches.

Bar Seating for Speed

Opt for bar seating during peak hours for potentially quicker service.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Closed·Opens 11AM

Cuisine

American Pub Fare

Price

Mid-range

Phone

(414) 276-8150

Address

219 E Michigan St, Milwaukee, WI 53202, USA

Insta-Factor

Medium

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cozy Saloon Atmosphere

Cozy Saloon Atmosphere

Step back in time with old-school, saloon-like decor, creating a cozy and nostalgic pub vibe.

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Delectable Comfort Food

Delectable Comfort Food

Savor hearty American comfort food, from standout Brussels sprouts to delicious fish fries and sandwiches.

Google Review+2
Friday Fish Fry

Friday Fish Fry

Experience one of the city's best Friday Fish Fries, featuring options like cod or lake perch.

15 Restaurants You Have To Visit In Milwaukee Before You DieGoogle Review
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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Arrive Early for Brunch

Beat the crowds by arriving right at opening time for weekend brunches.

Bar Seating for Speed

Opt for bar seating during peak hours for potentially quicker service.

Watch for Upselling

Be aware that sides beyond fries or chips may incur extra charges.

Cocktail Variety

Consider trying different cocktails as Bloody Mary reviews were mixed.

Tips

from all over the internet

Arrive Early for Brunch

Beat the crowds by arriving right at opening time for weekend brunches.

Bar Seating for Speed

Opt for bar seating during peak hours for potentially quicker service.

Watch for Upselling

Be aware that sides beyond fries or chips may incur extra charges.

Cocktail Variety

Consider trying different cocktails as Bloody Mary reviews were mixed.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Swingin' Door Exchange is praised for its cozy, old-school saloon atmosphere and hearty American comfort food, with many highlighting standout dishes like the Brussels sprouts, fish fry, and sandwiches. While the food is generally well-received, some diners note that waitstaff may upsell sides, and reviews for the Bloody Mary are mixed. The restaurant can get very busy, especially for weekend brunches, so arriving early or considering bar seating is recommended.

"In Milwaukee for business and looking for a quick bite, we stumbled upon Swingin' Door Exchange — what a great find! It was so good, we went back again the next day before heading to the airport. Packed at lunchtime, it’s clearly a local favorite with a great vibe. Everyone was friendly and working hard to keep things moving. The burgers and chicken were delicious, but the real stars were the brussels sprouts and beet side dishes — absolutely mouthwatering. This is officially my go-to spot whenever I’m in town!"

Tamara Knapp

"I never knew Milwaukee is famous for food! Got this restaurant rec from local we met in shop. They told us to come here. We went there twice since we couldn’t get in at first visit due to long wait. No reservations walk in only. Glad we could make the next day for brunch. We came there 10 min before it opened. Everything was good! Truly Wisconsin traditional home meal."

Sisi N

"We came here just for the Friday Fish Fry because we are good (non) Catholics! Husband had 4 pieces of the Lake Perch with fries, and I had 2 pieces of the Cod with House Chips and Cajun Ranch, with an additional side of Spicy Vermouth Carrots.
Husband loved everything, and ate everything!
I loved the cod, the chips with Cajun Ranch, and even the coleslaw that comes with. German-style coleslaw with a bite from the caraway.
The Vermouth Carrots are grilled to the point of being charred, which I was really excited for, but husband and I had mixed feelings. I found them not flavorful enough, and quite dry. They needed more spice and I wanted them to be sweeter, too. I didn't need them to be glazed but something would have kicked it up. Or some kind of fat - oil, butter, something.
We were headed to the State Fair later so I knew this was the last vegetable I'd get for a while, so I ate them, but I did not enjoy them.
This is a Pub's Pub - very publike. But not a gross pub, I didn't need to be glad the lights were dim. It felt clean, but definitely a traditional dark wood, carpeted pub."

Lisa Arnold

What People Like

Cozy, nostalgic saloon ambiance
Delicious comfort food and sides
Great Friday Fish Fry

What People Dislike

Potential for upselling of sides
Mixed reviews on Bloody Mary

Frequently Asked Questions

For weekend brunches, it's best to arrive right at opening to avoid long waits. The restaurant can get busy during peak hours.

Google Review

No, the restaurant operates on a walk-in basis only. Arriving early is recommended, especially for busy times.

Google Review

Standout items include the Brussels sprouts with pecans and aioli, the Friday Fish Fry, and various sandwiches like the Reuben or Prime Dip.

The Mader Menu: top five sandwiches in Southeast WisconsinGoogle Review+2

While the Bloody Mary has received mixed reviews, patrons suggest exploring the wide selection of cocktails offered.

The atmosphere is described as cozy, old-school, and pub-like, resembling a historic saloon.

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Only fries or chips are typically included. Other sides like carrots or beets may incur an additional charge.

Google Review

Mentioned in

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Thrillist

Best Bars in Milwaukee: Cool New Places to Drink & All-Time Favorites

East TownActual speakeasy-turned-downtown tavernOfficially opened in 1933 to celebrate the end of Prohibition, Swingin' Door probably started out life as a speakeasy; we just can't believe they simply happened to start serving alcohol less than a month after the repeal. Nowadays it's a cozy bar with a huge red stained glass window, cheap beer specials, dark wood fixtures, and some of the best bar food you can find in Milwaukee.

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The Swingin’ Door Exchange is a welcoming and cosy traditional saloon and eatery that draws upon Milwaukee’s Mid-Western cowboy heritage. In keeping with the theme, the food on offer here is classic American comfort food ideal for chilly winter days. Tuck into a bowl of chilli, chowder or soup and you’ll instantly be transported to a land of nostalgia and hearty home cooking.

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The Mader Menu: top five sandwiches in Southeast Wisconsin

FOUNDED BY TED AND JOE GLORIOSO, THE SHOP IS NOW RUN BY THE PRESTA BROTHERS, WHO SERVE UP ONE OF WISCONSIN’S HOTTEST SANDWICHES, THE LEGENDARY HUMAN TORCH. THIS SANDWICH IS A FIERY FLAVOR BOMB. ZESTY CALABRESE, SAVORY CAPICOLA, CREAMY PROVOLONE, AND A BOLD HOT PEPPER SPREAD, ALL HUGGED BY WARM, CRUSTY MUFFALETTA BREAD. EVERY BITE DELIVERS HEAT, RICHNESS AND PURE ITALIAN SOUL. NEXT, WE HEAD TO ROCHESTER DELI IN DOWNTOWN WAUKESHA, CELEBRATING 21 YEARS AND HOME TO WHAT’S BEEN VOTED THE BEST REUBEN IN WISCONSIN. DELI DAN, TAKE US THROUGH THIS LEGENDARY REUBEN STARTS OFF WITH THE SAUERKRAUT. WE CARAMELIZED ONION, BACON, BROWN SUGAR. WE ADD BEEF STOCK, SAUERKRAUT, TOSS IT ALL TOGETHER, AND THEN WE MAKE OUR OWN THOUSAND ISLAND HORSERADISH SAUCE. MARBLE, RYE THAT WE SEARCHED OUT OUT OF CHICAGO. TWO PIECES OF SWISS CHEESE. SIX OUNCES OF CORNED BEEF. GRILL IT OFF ON A PANINI GRILL. AND THE LEGEND WAS BORN. THE LEGEND WAS BORN. IN WEST ALLIS. WE HIT UP A FAMILY OWNED WISCONSIN INSTITUTION, THE WEST ALLIS CHEESE AND SAUSAGE SHOP, OWNED BY MARK AND LINDA LUTZ, IS ALSO HOME TO OUR THIRD SANDWICH CHAMPION, THE CHEESY JOE. IT STARTS OFF AT A BUTCHER SHOP. WE GRIND THE MEAT BLEND, WE BRING IT OVER, WE CREATE THE JOE, THE SLOPPY JOE PORTION OF IT, AND THEN WE GET SOME GOOD OLD CREAMY AMERICAN CHEESE. PUT THAT ON TOP AND GRILL IT ON SOME BREAD. WHITE BREAD. WE’RE GOING TO GO AHEAD AND CHECK OUT THE CHEESY JOE RIGHT NOW. ARE YOU READY. EXCELLENT. LET’S CHECK IT OUT. NEXT STOP THE SWING AND DOOR EXCHANGE, A 1933 COZY SALOON INSIDE THE HISTORIC MACKEY BUILDING, NOW OWNED BY KC SWAN AND SHELLY SINCERE. THEIR STAR, THE PRIME DIP. IT’S A MEATY MASTERPIECE. HOUSE ROASTED BLACK ANGUS BEEF, CARAMELIZED ONIONS AND GOOEY MILK MOZZARELLA ON A TOASTED FRENCH ROLL SERVED UP WITH SAVORY. THIS ONE’S JUICY, BEEFY AND NAPKIN WORTHY. FINALLY, ON MILWAUKEE’S EAST SIDE, THE COMET CAFE DELIVERS DINER CHARM WITH A RETRO PUNCH. WE’RE HERE WITH CHEF CARSON. YOU’VE GOT ONE OF THE GREAT SANDWICHES IN SOUTHEASTERN WISCONSIN. THE OPEN FACED MEATLOAF SANDWICH. SO TELL US ABOUT IT. WE’RE GOING TO GET TWO PIECES OF SALTED RYE DOWN TWO STRIPS OF BACON. WE’RE GOING TO LET THAT BLACKEN ON EACH SIDE. PULL THAT SALTED RYE. PULL OUR MEATLOAF. GET THAT ON TOP OF THE BREAD. AND THEN WE’RE GOING TO ADD A HEFTY SCOOP OF BACON MASH HOUSE MADE BEER GRAVY OVER THE TOP. THE TOMATOES, THE ONIONS, AND THEN JUST FINISH IT WITH A LITTLE GARNISH WITH CHIVES. THERE’S NO QUESTION WHY THIS IS LEGENDARY. AND NOW THE BEST PART IS GOING TO BE EATING IT, RIGHT?. ABSOLUTELY RIGHT. THAT’S FIVE INCREDIBLE SANDWICHES AND ONE VERY SATISFIED STOMACH. BE SURE TO FOLLOW ME FOR MORE LOCAL FOOD CONTENT ON INSTAGRAM, AND WE’LL SEE YOU NEXT TIME ON THE MENU. YOU TOOK A BITE WITH A KNIFE STILL IN IT. I DID. BE VERY CAREFUL. I MIGHT HAVE GONE SOUTH. THEN. OH MY GOODNESS. YOU KNOW WHAT THE FIRST QUESTION I HAVE FOR YOU. DO YOU WANT TO SWITCH JOBS BECAUSE YOU GOT YOU HAVE THE BEST ONE. I AM SO HUNGRY RIGHT NOW. LOOKING AT THAT, YOU PUT UP SOME PRETTY FANTASTIC SPOTS. SOME OF THOSE MY OWN PERSONAL FAVORITES. I GUESS. THE FIRST QUESTION I HAVE FOR YOU, WHAT GOES INTO MAKING A REALLY GREAT SANDWICH?. A LOT OF THOUGHT AND CREATIVITY, AND YOU CAN SEE SOME OF THOSE RELATIVELY BASIC SANDWICHES, BUT IT’S THE COMBINATION OF THE FLAVOR PROFILES THAT PLAY OFF ONE ANOTHER. OF COURSE, YOU’VE GOT TO HAVE INCREDIBLE BREAD. THAT’S WHERE IT ALL STARTS, RIGHT?.

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After Urban Milwaukee columnist Michael Horne raved to me about Swingin’ Door Exchange, I decided to head down to Michigan Street and try the food for myself. This ‘saloon and eatery’ has operated on the street level of the historic Mackie Building in one form or another officially since Prohibition ended in 1933. (Personally, I wonder if it had any prior incarnation as a speakeasy during Prohibition, but that’s a story for another day.) The wood-paneled walls and dangling stained glass lamps make it easy to imagine downtown workers jostling for position at the bar – easy, because they are still doing so today.

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Swingin’ Door Exchange is a former speakeasy converted into a downtown pub. Swingin’ Door, officially opened in 1933 to commemorate the lifting of Prohibition, most likely began as a speakeasy; we can’t believe they were selling alcohol less than a month after the repeal. Nowadays, it’s a friendly tavern with a giant red stained glass window, inexpensive beer deals, dark wood fixtures, and some of Milwaukee’s most excellent bar cuisine.

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Address: 219 E Michigan St, Milwaukee, WI 53202Phone:+1 (414) 276-8150Website:swingindoorexchange.comDetails: $$, Restaurant. Nestled in the heart of downtown Milwaukee, Swingin’ Door Exchange is an exceptional American restaurant that promises an unforgettable dining experience. From the moment you step through its doors, you’re greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere that exudes old-world charm.

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This cozy saloon reigns supreme when it comes to updated pub comfort food. Swingin’ Door Exchange is a downtown Milwaukee icon located in the Grain Exchange Building and has become a much-loved hangout since opening its doors in 1973. The homemade soups and sandwiches can’t be beat, but there are always tasty new daily specials to try and the Friday Fish Fry is one of the best in the city.

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The party spirit is alive and well in Swingin' Door Exchange!. Being one of Milwaukee's most vibrant spots, this bar is A cozy haunt with old-school, saloon-like decor that serves cocktails & American comfort food. For live shows from local music acts or even acclaimed guests, exclusive events, and terrific drinks for all sorts of tastes, swing by 219 E Michigan St, Milwaukee, WI 53202!

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$$ - $12-$24, Accepts Credit Cards, Bar Food/Beer Pubs, Bar/Club, Catering, Curbside Pickup, Downtown, Fish Fry, Friday Fish Fry, Full Bar, hamburgers, Outdoor Seating, Sandwiches, Spring 2020 Milwaukee Takeout Restaurants, Sunday Brunch, Takeout. Carryout and curbside pickup orders can be called in to 414-276-8150 Monday-Saturday from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sundays 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

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Classic saloon/bar fans, steak/chop lovers, historic atmosphere seekers, casual comfort food, and after-work drinks. Step into Milwaukee history at the Swinging Door Exchange, a classic saloon operating near the Third Ward since 1933!. It has that perfect old-school vibe – dark wood, friendly bartenders, and a sense that countless stories have been told over its long bar.

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Michigan St., (414) 276-8150swingindoorexchange.com [ Read more]. Tucked away Downtown in one of the city's most recognizable historical landmarks, Swingin' Door Exchange is a friendly, neighborhood saloon serving filling American favorites and tasty spirits. And what kind of cozy Milwaukee pub would it be if it didn't offer a Friday fish fry.

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Cuisine Type: American Restaurant Location: 219 E Michigan St, Milwaukee, WI 53202 Website: Swingin’ Door Exchange. Swingin’ Door Exchange is a historic restaurant known for its classic American dishes and a wide selection of craft beers. The restaurant has a lively and friendly vibe, perfect for casual dining.

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The Swingin' Door Exchange is where an English pub meets an American dive bar, complete with fried fish and chips to boot. Come for the drinks and stay for the delectable patty melt (and maybe grab a napkin or two, you'll need it). According to reviewer Mel Brousseau, the BBQ ribs were delicious.

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In all the times I’d visited the Swingin’ Door Exchange, 219 E. Michigan St., I’d never tried their fish fry. I’m a fan of the restaurant's top-notch pub fare and never doubted the fish fry would be excellent, as well, so I was excited it was a lead vote-getter when I asked for fish-fry recs.

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Swingin’ Door Exchange is a casual place where people from all walks of life harmoniously mingle together. Established in 2010, they are a restaurant that focuses on fresh, made to order cuisine. They are tucked in an antique vibe with a modern take on European farmhouse fare.

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Swingin' Door Exchange is a neighborhood joint located in downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This authentic street food establishment offers a casual and welcoming atmosphere for food enthusiasts. They pride themselves on serving good people, great food, and fine drinks.

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219 E Michigan SMilwaukee, WI 53202(414) 276-8150 Visit Website See Menu Open in Google Maps. This eatery with a bustling feel is one of the best restaurants Milwaukee has to offer, with its scrumptious American favorites such as burgers and sandwiches, plus sides.

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📍 Address: 219 E Michigan St, Milwaukee, WI 53202 ( Google Maps) 📞 Phone: (414) 276-8150 🕐 Hours: 11 am – 1 am Tue-Thurs, 11 am – 2 am Fri & Sat, Closed on Mon & Sun. This place provides a classy, casual vibe. They have outdoor seating as well.

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Otherwise food places, if you like Berlin style street food, check out WurstBar on Brady, seconded Uncle Wolffies and Swinging Door Exchange. Both awesome places!. Oak Barrel on 3rd is my favorite brunch place besides Uncle Wolffies.

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219 E Michigan St, Milwaukee, WI 53202Phone: 414-276-8150 Visit Website. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by Swingin Door Exchange (@swingindoorexchange)

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This hidden gem is tucked away downtown, but it still draws a big crowd eager for its highly popular Icelandic cod or perch fish fry.

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Located in the historic Grain Exchange building, Swingin’ Door Exchange offers American pub food in a unique and historic atmosphere.

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