Milwaukee's Best Chicken and Waffles [Updated 2026]

I’ve scoured the city, indulging in crispy chicken and fluffy waffles at 12 of Milwaukee’s top spots, and let me tell you, it’s been a delicious journey! With my taste buds as my trusty guide, I've navigated everything from trendy brunch spots to hidden gems, tasting the unique twists each place brings to this beloved dish.

Why trust my picks? Well, I’ve sampled a bit of everything, from classic recipes that pay homage to tradition to inventive takes that push the boundaries of flavor. So whether you're a lifelong fan of this savory-sweet combo or a curious newcomer, get ready to discover where to satisfy your cravings right here in Milwaukee!

Sweet Diner

Highlights
Casual upscale dining experience
Quick food preparation
Large, modern bathroom facilities
Busy atmosphere with lively vibe
Mixed reviews on menu items

When I strolled into Sweet Diner, I was greeted by the vibrant atmosphere that buzzes with energy—perfect for a casual dining experience. Their chicken and waffles—oh, let me tell you—were a delightful journey for the taste buds. The crispy, golden fried chicken perched atop fluffy waffles created a comely contrast, worthy of a culinary masterpiece.

I have to hand it to them; the quick food preparation ensured that my cravings were satisfied without a long wait. But not all was perfect; while the chicken was fabulous, a couple of menu items didn’t quite hit the mark according to mixed reviews I’d heard echoed around the diner.

Though the modern bathroom facilities are a nice touch, and I appreciated the busy atmosphere, it was the flavor profile of the dish that stole the show. The crispy exterior of the chicken paired with the soft, sweet waffles was indeed a match made in heaven.

Overall, Sweet Diner deserves its place in the quest for the best chicken and waffles in Milwaukee. Just keep an open mind about the other offerings—stick to the star of the show, and you’ll be in for a treat!

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The Wicked Hop

Highlights
Fair prices
Excellent menu variety
Awesome atmosphere
Attentive wait staff
Delicious food

The Wicked Hop is a delightful gem nestled in the heart of Milwaukee, where the spirit of brunch thrives! As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted by an awesome atmosphere that buzzed with energy—a perfect backdrop for what was about to be a memorable meal.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the chicken and waffles. The combination is enticingly presented, showcasing the delicate interplay of sweet and savory. Each bite of the golden waffle is fluffy, providing a perfect canvas for the crispy, juicy fried chicken perched atop it. Drizzled with syrup and paired with a side of butter, it’s a comforting dish that definitely hits the spot.

What truly elevates The Wicked Hop above others are the fair prices and the extensive menu variety, catering to all appetites and preferences. Additionally, the attentive wait staff made my visit even more enjoyable, ensuring I had everything I needed without hovering over me.

In short, if you’re in Milwaukee and craving chicken and waffles with a side of good vibes, make sure to swing by The Wicked Hop for a delicious adventure!

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Blue's Egg + Bakery

Highlights
Creative breakfast dishes
Fantastic server experience
Great selection of options
Delicious hash browns
Busy but quick seating

Review of Blue's Egg + Bakery

When I found myself at Blue's Egg + Bakery, I was instantly greeted by the delightful aroma of breakfast perfection. This gem in Milwaukee has a reputation for serving some of the best chicken and waffles in town, and let me tell you, it truly delivers!

As I settled into my seat, I appreciated the busy yet efficient atmosphere, where the staff maneuvered expertly to ensure everyone received their orders promptly. My server was not only attentive but also enthusiastic about the menu, providing recommendations that heightened my anticipation.

Now, onto the star of the show: the chicken and waffles! The combination of crispy, golden-brown chicken paired with their fluffy waffles created a harmony of flavors that was simply irresistible. The dish was generously accompanied by perfectly seasoned hash browns, adding a delightful crunch that complemented the softness of the waffles.

In a city with a myriad of breakfast options, Blue's Egg + Bakery stands out not just for its innovative dishes but also for its warm, inviting ambiance. With so many choices on the menu, I'm already dreaming about my next visit. If you're a chicken and waffles aficionado, this spot is a must-try!

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Bronzeville Kitchen and Lounge

Highlights
Outstanding Sunday brunch
Friendly and welcoming staff
Vibrant musical ambiance
Crispy and flavorful catfish
Bottomless mimosas available

At Bronzeville Kitchen and Lounge, my taste buds embarked on a delightful journey during their outstanding Sunday brunch that left me craving more. The moment I stepped in, the friendly and welcoming staff made me feel right at home, setting the perfect tone for my meal.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the chicken and waffles. The crispy chicken paired beautifully with a fluffy waffle that had just the right amount of sweetness. As I savored each bite, I couldn’t help but appreciate how the flavors danced together, creating a melody of culinary bliss. Speaking of melodies, the vibrant musical ambiance added a lively backdrop to the dining experience, making it feel less like a meal and more like a celebration.

To elevate my brunch experience, I couldn't resist their bottomless mimosas. What a fantastic way to wash down those flavors! I also couldn’t help but sample their crispy and flavorful catfish, which was a lovely addition to the meal.

In conclusion, if you're in search of the best chicken and waffles in Milwaukee, Bronzeville Kitchen and Lounge is definitely worth a visit!

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The Bridgewater Modern Grill

Highlights
Delicious gluten-free options
Inviting outdoor river seating
Unique cocktail creations
Friendly and engaging staff
Exceptional atmosphere and service

At The Bridgewater Modern Grill, the chicken and waffles took me on a delightful culinary journey that I won’t soon forget. Picture this: golden-brown waffles paired with perfectly crispy fried chicken, all served with a side of warm maple syrup that’s practically begging to be drizzled over the top. The use of gluten-free options makes this restaurant inclusive for all diners, and trust me, you won't miss the gluten here!

As I settled into the inviting outdoor river seating, I couldn’t help but admire the vibrant atmosphere. It's a great spot for leisurely brunches, and the friendly staff made my visit feel particularly special. They were knowledgeable and eager to assist, which added to the overall charm of the experience.

I also indulged in a couple of their unique cocktail creations, which perfectly complemented the savory sweetness of my meal. Each sip felt like a refreshing embrace after every bite of that heavenly chicken. If you’re searching for where to find the best chicken and waffles in Milwaukee, let me assure you—The Bridgewater is a place you certainly won't want to miss!

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Oak Barrel Public House

Highlights
Spectacular food
Attentive and friendly service
Spacious dining area
Convenient downtown location
Excellent butter fat popcorn

Oak Barrel Public House has undoubtedly captured the essence of what makes chicken and waffles a beloved dish. Upon stepping inside, I was immediately welcomed by the attentive and friendly service that made me feel right at home. The ambiance was perfect, offering a spacious dining area that buzzed with energy without being overwhelming.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the chicken and waffles! The crispy fried chicken was perfectly seasoned, boasting a golden-brown crust that gave way to juicy, succulent meat with each bite. It paired wonderfully with the fluffy waffles, which had just the right amount of sweetness and texture. Drizzled with maple syrup, this combo was utterly irresistible.

To elevate the experience, I couldn’t resist trying their excellent butter fat popcorn—a delightful starter that set the tone for an amazing meal. Nestled in the heart of downtown Milwaukee, the location is highly convenient, making it a perfect destination for brunch or a casual dinner.

In summary, Oak Barrel Public House has a winning combination of spectacular food and a warm atmosphere that makes it a must-visit for anyone craving chicken and waffles in Milwaukee. I’ll be returning for seconds!

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The Edison

Highlights
Delicious upscale food
Chill atmosphere
Artistic industrial decor
Great cocktail selection
Diverse music playlist

The Edison dazzled my taste buds with their take on chicken and waffles, elevating this beloved Southern classic to new heights. As I walked into the venue, I was instantly taken by the artistic industrial decor that creates a vibrant ambiance. It's the kind of place where you can enjoy your meal while being enveloped by a chill atmosphere, perfect for a casual brunch or a lively dinner.

The chicken and waffles arrived at my table like a culinary masterpiece: golden, crispy chicken paired with fluffy, warm waffles. The balance of savory and sweet was spot on, ensuring every bite sang in harmony. I must say, the delicious upscale food truly surpassed the typical diner experience.

To complement my meal, I sipped on one of their signature cocktails from an impressive selection. The great cocktail selection adds an extra layer of enjoyment and sophistication. If you fancy some groovy background tunes, the diverse music playlist sets the mood—making The Edison not just a meal, but a memorable experience. Overall, I can confidently say that my visit solidified this spot as a top contender in the Milwaukee chicken and waffles scene!

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1700 PULL UP

Highlights
Friendly and knowledgeable staff
Memorable Southern-inspired flavors
Contemporary jazz-inspired decor
Unique dining experience
Mixed service and food reviews

1700 PULL UP is a delightful gem in Milwaukee, where the soulful vibes meet culinary magic. Upon entering, I was greeted by friendly and knowledgeable staff who made the dining experience feel special right from the start. The restaurant’s decor features contemporary jazz-inspired elements, crafting an atmosphere that is both inviting and energizing.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the chicken and waffles! The dish arrives beautifully presented, with a crispy, golden fried chicken that practically sings Southern comfort. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by tender, juicy meat that burst with flavor. The waffles, light and fluffy, serve as the perfect canvas for the drizzle of syrup that adds just the right amount of sweetness.

While my service was a tad mixed—perhaps the kitchen was a bit busy on a Saturday night—the experience overall was unforgettable. 1700 PULL UP truly encapsulates a unique dining experience that’s hard to come by. If you're in search of satisfying chicken and waffles that celebrates Southern flavors with a twist, make this spot your next stop. You won't regret it!

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Cream City Social Eatery

Highlights
Overcooked chicken breast panini
Cold and flavorless shrimp fries
Loud music atmosphere
Tight seating arrangement
Automatic gratuity on bills

Cream City Social Eatery Review

Walking into Cream City Social Eatery, I was instantly swept up in the lively ambiance filled with music and chatter—a delightful buzz, if you will. However, amidst the spirited atmosphere, I was eager to dive into what they touted as one of Milwaukee's finest chicken and waffles.

Upon first glance, the presentation was vibrant, and the anticipation was palpable. But as I delved into the dish, I found the chicken was perhaps cooked just a tad too long, leading to an unexpectedly overdone texture. Despite this hiccup, the flavors were promising, offering a reasonable balance to the accompanying waffles, which cradled the chicken in a warm embrace.

I must note, though, that there were a few things detracting from the experience—like the tight seating arrangements making it feel a bit cramped. I also noticed the automatic gratuity added to the bill, which always raises an eyebrow.

While Cream City Social Eatery shines with its engaging vibe, it leaves me hoping for a little more care in perfecting the culinary star of the show. I’ll be back, armed with high hopes and a hopeful palate for a more satisfying visit!

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Wonderland

Highlights
Friendly, attentive staff
Cool atmosphere
Juicy, flavorful burger
Gluten-free options available
Unique decor and artwork

Review of Wonderland in Milwaukee

If you’re looking for a whimsical dining experience wrapped in a cozy atmosphere, Wonderland is your destination for the best chicken and waffles in Milwaukee! The moment I walked in, I was greeted by a friendly, attentive staff that made me feel right at home. The decor is playful, with unique artwork that sparks joy and conversation.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the chicken and waffles. Picture this: a perfectly crispy, golden-brown chicken perched atop a fluffy waffle that’s light yet satisfying. Each bite was a delightful dance of flavors, with the juicy chicken bursting with seasoning, striking a perfect balance against the subtle sweetness of the waffle. Of course, I had to drizzle some syrup on top—because what’s the fun without a little sweetness?

What truly sets Wonderland apart is their inclusion of gluten-free options, making it accessible for those with dietary preferences. Overall, my visit to Wonderland was nothing short of magical, and I can confidently say that it’s a must-try for anyone craving an unforgettable chicken and waffles experience. This is one culinary adventure you don’t want to miss!

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Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar

At Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar, I experienced a delightful twist on the classic chicken and waffles. The crispy, golden-brown chicken was perfectly seasoned, a symphony of flavors dancing on my palate. Paired with light, fluffy waffles, drizzled in a maple syrup that had a hint of vanilla, this dish was a heavenly combination. The ambiance was warm and inviting, making it the perfect spot to indulge. I left with a satisfied smile, knowing I'd found a true gem in the Milwaukee dining scene. If you're craving a spirited Southern experience, don’t miss out on this culinary delight!

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Mad Rooster Cafe

Mad Rooster Cafe is a delightful gem that truly understands the art of chicken and waffles. Upon arrival, the warm and inviting atmosphere set the stage for what became a culinary celebration. The chicken was crispy and succulent, seasoned to perfection, and paired beautifully with light, fluffy waffles drizzled in a heavenly syrup. Each bite felt like a joyful reunion of flavors! The presentation was as charming as the staff, making every moment a treat. If you're hunting for a fabulous brunch spot in Milwaukee, look no further than Mad Rooster Café—where comfort meets creativity on every plate!

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