Monday 21st of February 2011 06:39:05 PM

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Had a wonderful dinner in the lounge side of the Hinterland -- the front of the house is the dining area; the "other" front of the house _behind_ the kitchen is a less formal lounge. Both sides have bars. The food is superb -- fancy takes on pho, and fish, and tacos and such. There's a dinner menu and a bar menu, and both are wonderful. I had pork rilletes for an appetizer and a short rib ragu with homemade pasta. There are six Hinterland brews on tap -- I'm guessing two of the taps are for their special or seasonal brews. They had the English pub ale, pale ale, amber, coffee stout (yum), maple bock and a wood-aged IIPA on. They do sampler flights. They also have a huge selection of wine and fancy cocktails. Vibe in the lounge was beautiful people --well-dressed, young, happy. They didn't kick me out, though! Well, i was well-dressed and happy, anyway...

Beer prices are modest, food prices are high. Service was quite friendly, but they were slammed with folks and needed an extra server or two. Rooms are dark and loud, but the atmosphere was enjoyable. I'll definitely go back -- the food was that good.

Monday 15th of November 2010 10:41:34 AM

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Had a great experience here over the weekend, thanks to BeerFMAndy and Mike for hosting.

Yes, this is a higher-end "gastropub" restaurant, serving house beers not available anywhere else in Milwaukee to my knowledge (besides shops).

Atmosphere was very nice, if you don't know what to expect it might throw you off, but it was refreshing to see an upscale place offering their own beers. The interior design was really something, exposed timber rafters, large framed art, reclaimed wood chandeliers, dark tones, overall a contemporary, minimalist vibe.

Bar up front, dining area up the stairs, and a hidden lounge in the back with a second bar. We sat in the back lounge and had a few beers and small plates. Service was excellent and friendly, though friends have complained of dining room service issues in the past.

House beers were varied styles, there were around 6 available including Oktoberfest and Winterland, an American Porter spiced with juniper berries.

The chorizo taco and garlic pork sausage I tried were very tasty and affordable. Loved the taco, the cabbage contrasted nicely with the chorizo spice/heat. Entrees can be pricey, if you eat here it's more of a nice date place.

Overall a unique place in Milwaukee, maybe not suited for everyone, but offering quality beers and cuisine in an upscale setting. Thanks again to Andy for the tip on this place.