Milwaukee – Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge, a historic bar nestled in Milwaukee’s Historic Mitchell Street neighborhood, has earned a coveted spot on USA TODAY’s Bars of the Year list. This prestigious recognition celebrates Bryant’s unique charm and storied history, distinguishing it as one of the top 27 bars across the nation.
Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge stands out for its rich history and distinctive menuless ordering system. Established in 1936 by Bryant and Edna Sharp, the bar began its journey as a Miller Brewing tied house before evolving into a cocktail lounge in 1938. Bryant Sharp’s vision was to create a sophisticated lounge that served inventive drinks, including the Pink Squirrel, Blue Tail Fly, and Banshee—ice cream cocktails that are still featured today.
The bar has weathered many changes over the decades. After Bryant’s death, employee Carl “Pat” Malmberg took over in the 1960s. Despite a devastating fire in 1971 that destroyed much of the original establishment, Malmberg’s dedication preserved Bryant’s legacy. He rebuilt the bar with a retro 1950s aesthetic, including a $21,000 custom McIntosh sound system and gold-plated cash registers, which have since become part of the bar’s historic charm.
In 2008, John Dye, a history enthusiast and service industry veteran, became the bar’s third owner. His passion for preserving Bryant’s vision ensured that the lounge continued to thrive. “I was a customer here, and it just felt right,” Dye said. “I thought, you know, what if it’s going to go away? I couldn’t let that happen.”
Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge is renowned for its innovative and personalized drink service. The bar eschews traditional menus; instead, patrons share their preferences with bartenders, who craft bespoke cocktails based on individual tastes. This approach, inspired by Bryant Sharp’s original vision, aims to enhance the drinking experience and encourage guests to explore beyond the confines of a standard menu.
The bar’s cocktail catalog spans nearly a century, with offerings from Depression-era classics like the Rail Splitter to colorful cosmopolitans from the ’90s. Popular selections include ice cream drinks and Wisconsin old fashioneds, with a selection of approximately 500 drinks available. During the Christmas season, Bryant’s features special offerings, but the regular experience remains a distinctive journey into cocktail history.
The bar’s ambiance, characterized by dim lighting, old leather chairs, and carpeted floors, provides a nostalgic trip back in time. Although patrons cannot see the liquor bottles, which are hidden in a long, three-rowed rail below the bar, the atmosphere and service create a unique and memorable visit.
Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge continues to attract cocktail enthusiasts, history buffs, and visitors from around the world. Its enduring appeal and innovative approach to mixology make it a standout destination in Milwaukee.
