Wood-fired classics | crafted simplicity on the plate.

52 restaurants (week 10): The Inn

Head to this delightful spot in Hartland for pizza and simply wonderful wood-fired fare.

The Inn is well worth the drive to Hartland, not only for its beautifully appointed bar and dining room designed by the folks at THREE SIXTY, but for its remarkable menu, which relies on simple, seasonal ingredients and the magic of wood fire to bring depth and character to each dish.

Highlights on the current menu included flavorful starters like housemade focaccia flavored with rosemary and garlic; scallops on the half-shell and deviled eggs flavored with chili oil, chives, marinated octopus, garlic chips and caviar.

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The INN in Hartland mixes global cuisine with local history

The building where The INN opened its doors one year ago has a rich history in Hartland. For 120 years, it’s welcomed travelers passing through the village. Now, a local family is making a new history for the business. 

With exposed brick and English charm, you’ll find Matt Armistead in the kitchen Tuesday through Saturday with his evolving menu. 

“My husband did a majority of his studying at a restaurant called River Cafe in London and I think that’s where a lot of his inspiration comes from,” said Maddie Braaten.

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How Hartland’s The INN revived a century-old building destroyed by fire

When Matt Armistead and Maddie Braaten viewed the remains of a more than
100-year-old building that burned in Hartland in 2019, they saw past holes
in the floor, the ceilings that were pulled out and the significant water and
smoke damage.

Instead, they envisioned a restaurant.

“It was basically a shell of a building,” said Armistead.

He said it took three years and “several million dollars” with the help of an
investor to renovate and revive the building at 110 Cottonwood Ave. that now
houses The Inn.

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21 Things to Do for the Perfect Milwaukee Valentine’s Day

The day to celebrate love is almost here, and if you’re not down to just drink and dine this Valentine’s Day (or want to add something more to date night), there are plenty of other fun things to do. 

Whether you’re looking for a fun activity with your SO, a night out with the gals, something for the kids, or a gift that’ll stand out, we’ve got it all. Here are all the things to do in Milwaukee for Valentine’s Day. 

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35 new restaurants and bars that opened in the Milwaukee area in 2025

Yes, Milwaukee said goodbye to some much-beloved bars and restaurants this year, but it also welcomed many promising newcomers. From the city’s first fully Burmese restaurant to a laid-back oyster bar to inclusive third spaces that serve food and drinks all day, more than two dozen promising places to eat, drink, gather and relax opened in the area this year. 

In order of opening date, here are new bars and restaurants that opened in Milwaukee in 2025. 

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52 Restaurants 2026: 52 weeks, one delicious year

What if 2026 became the year you explored the best restaurants in Metro Milwaukee, one bite at a time?

I’ve got your number. This guide highlights 52 locally-owned restaurants within the Milwaukee Metro area. That’s one per week offering something unforgettable—whether it’s a standout dish, a comforting favorite or a restaurant that surprises and delights. 

Supporting local restaurants is more important than ever. These eateries are the heart of our communities, creating connection, sustaining jobs and keeping Metro Milwaukee’s dining scene vibrant and inventive. Every meal you share helps these businesses thrive.

This list wasn’t put together at random; in fact, it was literally a year in the making. When I consider which restaurants to include, I’ve noted their consistency, the creativity and seasonality of their offerings and overall experience. I’ve made it a point to include a combination of new restaurants and long-standing favorites. I’ve also tried to include both pricier and more affordable options and aspired to include a balanced number from various neighborhoods. 

Each week during the year, I’ll feature one restaurant from the list, sharing updates on seasonal dishes, special events and must-try menu items. The full 52 Restaurants list is also republished every Sunday, and you can download this handy old-school paper version to keep on your fridge or in your wallet.

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7 of the Milwaukee area’s best new restaurants of 2025

Are you a fan of variety? Then you’ll love this year’s lineup of the best restaurants that opened in the Milwaukee area in 2025. 

Newcomers that stood out from the rest all had delicious food and excellent service, but I also gave bonus points to those that delivered something different to Milwaukee’s dining scene, whether with the type of food they serve, the creativity of the menu, or offering a new kind of dining experience to their neighborhood. 

Read the full story online >>

110 Cottonwood Avenue, Hartland, Wisconsin 53029