Cafe Centraal

We visited Cafe Centraal on a cold night in December; our party of seven thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere, food and service. We had lots of pleasant conversation that was easily exchanged in a welcoming atmosphere.

There are two places in Milwaukee that I go to Mussels – Cafe Centraal in Bay View and Triskele’s. Cafe Centraal is easier to get to and has a menu where everyone can find something they like. The beer list is extensive as it is in all of the restaurants in the family – Cafe Hollander, and Cafe Benelux. Similar feel too – casual, european, and friendly. I’ve never been steered wrong by the staff when I describe the kind of beer I’m looking for to drink or to pair with my meal.

Gluten free options and vegetarian options

We met up with a group and had dinner at Café Centraal. It was quite busy, so we grabbed a seat at the bar, until we were seated. The beer list is quite extensive, and there were quite a few beers that sounded interesting. I choose Blanche De Bruxelles. It was a very light beer, and overall not much flavor to it. I probably would not order it again. After about 20-30 minutes, we were seated and I decided to have the grilled Portobello sandwich, which was a grilled Portobello with pesto goat cheese, red peppers, artichoke, red onion, tomato, arugula and feta cheese on a ciabatta roll. While it was good, I was a bit disappointed. I LOVE the Portobello sandwich from Café Hollander, and was hoping that this would be as good. There are slight variations of the two, and Café Hollanders is hands down better. I would love to come back and try the fish, as it looked very tasty! Once the weather finally cooperates, there is a very nice patio outside, and they also had various games that you could take to your table and play. Looks like a great place to grab a beer, a game, and some friends and have a great night of fun.

Visited this restaurant recently with a group of people. It felt similiar to another Cafe in Wauwatosa but the menu was a bit different. There is a Very extensive beer selection with a book of options. So many options that you almost don’t know what to order. It took a while to get a party of 12 seated and there isn’t much of a waiting area for a table. Once we were seated we made our drink, appetizer and food orders. I ordered the Bayview Cheesesteak sandwich with shaved beef, ale-braised onions, peppadew peppers and Belgian beer cheese sauce. It was good but I did not like the peppers but the cheese sauce was very good! The service was very prompt and the waitress was very good interacting with a big group. It was busy so it was a little noisy but not horrible. I would stop in again if in the area.

I attended a Brunch here that was hosted by a meetup group. When I arrived the Hostess immediately directed me to correct table. I’ll admit to being impressed that she knew where to send me given that the entire restaurant was packed.
We were seated at a large communal table directly in front of the courtyard area. It was absolutely lovely to large sunny window while enjoying brunch. I found it interesting that while they have divided the restaurant up into three sections the noise levels are still a little high.

I ordered a Bloody and Hot Cheesy Mess. The Hot Cheesy mess was so yummy. The dish consisted of potatoes, Fritos, eggs, and a spicy cheese sauce. I was a little hesitant about how the Fritos would work out. One taste and my tastebuds took over all logical thinking. I finished the entire dish. I never finish an entire dish!
Our server was attentive and friendly. I kept thinking he was like that annoying little brother who trying to be helpful while not bothering you too much. He answered all of questions clearly indicating he was knowledgeable about the menu.
Bottom Line..Would I dine there again?Yes.Yes. and Oh Yes again. I would actually be willing to wait up to an hour to have a brunch there. I can’t wait to try something else from their menu.

Great enclosed eclectic patio; awesome food (Green Curry Mussels, Bitterballen, Three Face Solution). All served in a timely manner by an infectiously friendly server, Justin. Among the large selection of beers we chose Mared-Sous. The best dark beer in town.
We cannot wait to return and sample other menu items.
Parking is not a problem.

Why we keep going back on Easter is not only the food, but the staff, no reservations, and their ease at handling our small group with one family member who uses a scooter. They can handle a lot of diners and the wait is always minimal. The food is always consistently great, including the Mimosas!. We never feel rushed. A very welcoming place.

The service was good, the prices were reasonable, and I love their new patio! However, this is the second time I’ve been to Cafe Centraal for brunch and wanted to order the Quiche Lorraine but they were out of it. :( Note to Cafe Centraal—please make more quiche! Next time I’ll ask BEFORE I sit down, so I can decide if I want to stay or not (if they’re out again). I ordered the Green Torpedo omelet instead—see dish review.