Just minutes away from downtown, the enchanting suburb of Wauwatosa feels like something straight out of a fairy tale. But once you take a moment to explore the charming shops, family-friendly events and sensational dining offerings, you’ll soon begin to notice that each of its five districts is unique. Take a tour of each district to discover the pure magic that makes Wauwatosa shine.
The Village
The Village offers everything from a vast array of dining options to boutiques and sensational nightlife. Free parking, a seasonal farmer’s market and lush public spaces and parks add to its appeal. The Village is the perfect spot for a romantic night away. Enjoy an exquisite Italian meal at Ristorante BARTOLOTTA dal 1993, or get cozy at the Northwoods-inspired Buckatabon Tavern & Supper Club. Transport yourself to France at Le Rêve Pâtisserie & Café, or enjoy a Belgian-inspired brunch at Café Hollander.
Beyond dining and nightlife, The Village boasts a wide selection of unique stores and independently-owned boutiques that line the streets as you stroll along with family or friends. Boutiques like Shop Privy and Salamander offer the latest fashions. Nearby Studio Ric Rak is the perfect place for vintage finds. For fashionistas looking to complete their look with a one-of-a-kind piece, head to Heinsight to design a unique custom leather piece. Plant parents and floral enthusiasts, head to The Flower Lady to add to your collection of botanical buddies. And for cheese enthusiasts, explore the European-inspired specialty shop The Village Cheese Shop.
The Village is also home to many public parks, including Hart Park, Pocket Park and Root Common Park. Each offers loads of outdoor activities, from free public concerts, softball and tennis in the warmer months to a curling match in the winter months or walking and jogging with friends all year long.
East Tosa
East Tosa is a lively urban community with a classic Main Street vibe. Good local brews abound—with both coffee and beer. This is true of the eclectic, industrial-chic taproom at East Tosa's Gathering Place Brewing, where award-winning, community-centered craft beer is the brewery's calling card. Serving brews of a different variety, Cranky Al’s is a coffee spot with a breakfast menu that includes just about everything you could possibly imagine for breakfast—try the savory bacon tacos, a meat lover's burrito or a sweet peanut butter buttercream-filled doughnut.
Try Rocket Baby Bakery for daily scratch-made goods, or take it easy while the kids play at The Little Village Play Cafe. Dining options are abundant along North Avenue, including Delicious Bites, Maggio's Wood Fired Pizza, IL MITO Trattoria e Enoteca and BelAir Cantina.
Midtown
Nestled in the center of Wauwatosa between East Tosa and Mayfair, there’s so much to explore in this budding area. With 50 locally-owned businesses and shops, including Fiddleheads Coffee Roasters, Kwench Juice Cafe, Lion’s Tail Brewing and Joy Ice Cream Social, there's something for everyone.
Looking to grab a bite? Thai-namite is a Thai restaurant serving some amazing hot curry dishes. If you’re not in the mood for a little heat, walk across the street to Hui’s Cantonese and American Restaurant for classic chop suey and chow mein. MidTown Grill serves diner classics with a modern touch. It’s a cozy space, but the food will leave a large, fulfilling impression. And, if you’re looking for a little pick-me-up, grab a coffee or tea from Colectivo Coffee, then head over to Menomonee River Parkway and sip your expert brew while enjoying nature and the fabulous views.
Mayfair & Mayfair Collection
Heading to the west side of Wauwatosa, you'll find Mayfair Mall and The Mayfair Collection for great shopping and dining. Mayfair Mall offers Wisconsin's only Nordstrom, The Container Store and Crate & Barrel.
The Collection is a mixed-use development featuring a Whole Foods, an appetizing mix of local restaurants, luxury apartments and a hotel. Golden Nest Pancakes & Cafe offers savory and sweet breakfast and lunch favorites like cinnamon swirl french toast and the boom boom quinoa shrimp wrap. Pair your meal with their full drink and espresso bar options! Good City Brewing is the perfect place to grab a drink and watch a game. Head to the dog-friendly patio and join a game of cornhole—the classic Midwestern bean bag toss. Nearby, 1st and Bowl offers high-energy football bowling, basketball connect four, pickleball and more.
68th & Wells
This quaint neighborhood comes with a larger-than-life personality. Brimming with specialty food shops from coffee to cakes and plenty of open-air spaces, the southeast corner of Wauwatosa is a scrumptious crossroads of flavor that visitors can’t get enough of.
Satisfy your sweet tooth at Simma’s Bakery, a family-owned shop known for award-winning cheesecake. Next door, you will find Ruckus & Glee. Pop in for an incredible selection of toys for kids of all ages. Right around the corner, you can find La Tarte. This bakery features a menu filled with cookies, tortes, bars and more. While you’re there, you might as well go all in on your sugary adventure and stroll around the block to Ultimate Confections. This landmark chocolate shop has been hand-dipping all types of chocolatey confections in Wauwatosa for more than 30 years.
If you want to walk off the calories, get a breath of fresh air over at Jacobus Park. Wander the mixed-use trails and admire the lily pad-covered pond. There’s even an athletic field if you’d like to play catch.
