Business Details
About
RestaurantItalian Restaurant
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.
Details
- Dine-inAvailable
- DeliveryNot available
- TakeoutAvailable
- Accepts reservationsAvailable
Location
Hours
Reviews
4.5
2,346 reviews
5 stars
1,736
4 stars
360
3 stars
118
2 stars
59
1 star
73
What are people saying?
AI-generated from recent customer reviews
Food Quality
Customers frequently praised the delicious pizza and Italian dishes, with standout items like fried eggplant and beef lasagna receiving high marks.
Service Experience
While many reviews highlighted friendly and attentive service, there were notable instances of poor service and management issues that negatively impacted customer experiences.
Atmosphere
The restaurant's ambiance was often described as cozy and inviting, making it suitable for both casual dining and special occasions.
Consistency
Most customers reported consistent quality in food and service over multiple visits, although some recent experiences indicated a decline in food quality.
Reservation Issues
Several customers experienced problems with reservations and seating arrangements, leading to dissatisfaction with their dining experience.
- SBSea Bee3 days ago2.0The Pepperoni Special Pizza is way too greasy and its crust super soggy...I eat a few slices and it sat in my stomach like a brick! I ended up throwing it away, $30 right in the garbage...The service is still very good and the atmosphere still very pleasant... I usually enjoy the the food especially the pizza but lately it seems to get worse every time I go...
- RTRoxie Touchstone4 days ago5.0Always on point with great service and delicious food the pizza is always perfect. The wine is good. The servers are amazing. I would definitely recommend it to others. This is my fourth time going my boyfriend and I go at least twice a month. We celebrated my mom‘s 80th birthday yesterday and she really loved the pizza
- NTnick turenneNov 17, 20255.0Our family has been coming here for many years, and most recently, had an excellent fish fry. But what ever happened to that cool bartender Dave? Is he ever there anymore?
- AGaurora galantiNov 14, 20255.0Our first time at Balisteri’s restaurant. We were visiting from Florida. First impression was the warmth of the atmosphere and the fabulous sunken bar! We went on a Wednesday, and the place was buzzing. We had a wonderful table tucked in the corner and our waiter treated us like old friends. The pizza was thin crust, cut into little squares and delicious! We had a delightful experience and would absolutely return if we come thru this way again!
- DADaniel AccetturaNov 4, 20254.0Old school Italian restaurant that's been an area favorite for generations. The menu has all of the classic Italian entrees, well prepared and with good ingredients. A standout is the beef lasagna - flavorful and moist without using excess ricotta. They are also well known for their thin crust pizza, but the wait may be long on a Friday or Saturday night. (If you're just looking for their pizza, order carry out from their other location). The ambiance is perfect for a romantic first date with many paintings, seasonal decorations and other items of visual interest. The acoustics are good, allowing easy conversations while you dine. They have many tables for two, but can accommodate large parties as well. While the restaurant is large, it is sectioned into multiple rooms and feels cozy and warm. They have a great, wooden, wrap around bar area that is perfect for eating, people watching and striking up conversations with others. There is also a large, well decorated outdoor deck for alfresco dining, weather permitting. The service was friendly and good, but expect a leisurely experience and probably not ideal for a "dine and dash" to a show or concert. Due to the old building constructed on multiple levels, it may not be best for those who require mobility assistance.
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.