For over five decades, Balistreri’s has been a cornerstone of Milwaukee’s culinary scene, serving authentic Italian-American cuisine that captures the heart and soul of Italy while embracing the vibrant flavors of Wisconsin. With two cherished locations — Balistreri’s Italian-American Ristorante in Wauwatosa and Balistreri’s Bluemound Inn in Milwaukee — we’ve built a legacy of exceptional food, warm hospitality, and unforgettable dining experiences. Family-owned and operated since 1968, our Italian restaurants are more than just places to eat; they’re gathering spots where locals and visitors alike come to share stories, savor Italian food, and create memories.
Overall, customers praised the food, especially the pizza and Italian dishes, although some reported inconsistencies in flavor and quality.
Service Experience
Service received mixed reviews; while many highlighted excellent and attentive staff, others reported slow service and unwelcoming interactions.
Atmosphere
The restaurant's ambiance was frequently described as warm, festive, and charming, particularly during the holiday season.
Consistency
Several customers noted a decline in food quality and service consistency over time, with some expressing disappointment compared to past experiences.
NN
Nanashi
Jan 3, 2026
5.0
Beautiful Christmas decorations, good service, the food and bar were handled extremely seperately 2 bills 2 seperate servers which was weird but not bad. Food was good portions were giant, but be warned their onion rings were more akin to onion strings.
KW
Kirstina Whitford
Jan 1, 2026
5.0
We always come here around Christmas/New Year with family and friends. The food never misses, the waitstaff is amazing, and the atmosphere is warm and festive! One of our favorites for sure!!
MM
Marcie Molek
Dec 29, 2025
5.0
A great place with a legit old school vibe (think Rat Pack). Their pizza is unmatched, and they offer a good range of menu items. Servers and bartenders are friendly and professional. If you get a chance to visit during the holidays, take it! It’s overload in the most festive sense.
VW
Velma Williams
Dec 21, 2025
1.0
Ordered 3 pizzas from there within a 2 month period of time. I was hoping the last one would be better after ordering it with double sausage, extra cheese and more veggies. It was bland bland bland. The sausage had a little kick but not enough to carry the entire pizza. The pizza there use to be so tasty you couldn’t stop eating it. I tried to save it by adding extra things on it at home and it was still bland. I tossed it.
KK
Karen Kirkpatrick
Dec 19, 2025
5.0
Absolutely a wonderful restaurant.. I had a chicken liver with mushroom appetizer which melted in my mouth... The haystack onion rings were incredible.. the grilled pork chops where tender and tasty... Is Spadina he had was awesome.... We had enough leftovers for a total complete meal... We had the flourless torte for dessert... It was very rich but very delicious... I didn't get pictures of all the food but the Christmas decorations were really beautiful inside and out...
Frequently Asked Questions About Balistreri's Bluemound Inn
Are reservations recommended at the Bluemound?
Yes, we take dinner and lunch reservations at Bluemound. Call our restaurant today to learn more!
Do you offer brunch?
Yes, we offer brunch on Sundays from 11am-3pm.
Do you offer shuttle services to the American Family Field?
Yes, we do offer shuttle services to the American Family Field for all of the home games, except for Tuesdays when we are closed.
Are you handicapped accessible?
Yes, we are handicapped accessible with reservations only.
Is the menu the same at Bluemound and Italian/American Ristorante?
Each of our restaurants offers its own unique menu! Check out our website to view all of our menu items.
Are reservations recommended at Balistreri's Bluemound Inn?
Yes, reservations are recommended for both lunch and dinner at Balistreri's Bluemound Inn. You can call the restaurant to make a reservation.
Does Balistreri's Bluemound Inn offer brunch?
Yes, brunch is available on Sundays from 11am to 3pm.
Is Balistreri's Bluemound Inn handicapped accessible?
Yes, the restaurant is handicapped accessible with reservations only.
Does Balistreri's Bluemound Inn provide shuttle services to American Family Field?
Yes, shuttle services to American Family Field are offered for all home games except on Tuesdays when the restaurant is closed.
Are the menus at Balistreri's Bluemound Inn and Italian/American Ristorante the same?
No, each restaurant offers its own unique menu. You can view all menu items on their website.
What are the operating hours of Balistreri's Bluemound Inn?
Open Monday, Wednesday to Thursday from 11:00am to 10:00pm, Friday to Saturday from 11:00am to 11:00pm, Sunday from 11:00am to 10:00pm, and closed on Tuesday.
What nearby parks can I visit before or after dining at Balistreri's Bluemound Inn?
Juneau Playfield is a nearby park where customers can enjoy some outdoor time before or after dining at Balistreri's Bluemound Inn.
Are there entertainment options close to Balistreri's Bluemound Inn?
Yes, nearby entertainment includes HA HA Improv and Jim Rauth’s Comedy College, ideal for a night of laughter before or after your meal.
What dining options are available near Balistreri's Bluemound Inn?
You can find varied dining nearby such as McDonald's for fast food and Amaze Slice for Jamaican cuisine, offering alternatives before or after your visit.
Which nearby places of business are close to Balistreri's Bluemound Inn?
Nearby professional services include SMG Computing, Inc for IT support and Bisbing Research advertising agency, useful if you need business services around your visit.