Beer, Wine & Spirits in Milwaukee

Local artwork garnishes the walls inside Park Avenue Wine Bar & Merchant as tastefully as the international vintages decorating the wine list. Under the guidance of three resident sommeliers, the staff carefully curates a collection of more than 70 wines by the bottle and glass, sourced from locales such as New Zealand, Argentina, France, and California. They summon their vast viticultural knowledge and ability to speak with grapes to help patrons complement the flavors of executive chef Ted Stay's elegant cuisine. Blending traditional European cooking techniques with contemporary methods, Ted whips up small plates, flatbreads, steaks, and seafood with a locally sourced arsenal of seasonal, sustainable ingredients.

Towering wine racks flank a curved bar, and glowing swaths of blue and purple light line exposed-brick walls inside the renovated historic building. The lights also illuminate the immense stash of wine bottles, craft beers, and top-notch liquors—all available for take-home purposes as well as sipping onsite. Park Avenue Wine Bar & Merchant also frequently hosts events, including live music and tastings.

Hearkening the charm of the town squares that dotted America in the early 20th century, The Arboretum of South Barrington places boutiques, restaurants, and cafés within strolling distance of each other in a central, tree-speckled location. The open-air center beckons with a verdant landscape of more than 2,700 trees representing 80 shade and ornamental species including maples, elms, and Golden Raindrops crabapples. Between these, gardens add splashes of color and potential hiding places for bank robbers on the run with 20,000 perennials and 10,000 grasses, originally nurtured by fourth-generation nurseryman Roy Klehm, a worldwide authority on peonies.

Apart from the grandeur and fresh air of nature, The Arboretum of South Barrington plays host to shops such as L.L. Bean, restaurants such as Anna Shea Chocolates & Lounge, and entertainment facilities such as iPic Theaters. Regular events keep the grounds bustling with culinary tours and live music.