N※N

A new wine bar is open on Milwaukee''s east side at Waterford Wine & Spirits

New Milwaukee Wine Bar Debuts on East Side Inside Waterford Wine & Spirits

Milwaukee's vibrant East Side neighborhood has welcomed a fresh addition to its burgeoning food and drink scene with the opening of a new wine bar nestled within the established Waterford Wine & Spirits. This innovative concept, which officially uncorked its doors on July 18, 2025, transforms a corner of the beloved wine shop into an intimate tasting haven, blending retail expertise with a cozy bar atmosphere. The venture promises to elevate Milwaukee's wine culture by offering an accessible yet sophisticated space for both novices and connoisseurs to explore global vintages, paired with small plates and educational experiences.

The wine bar, simply dubbed "The Bar at Waterford," occupies a renovated section of the Waterford Wine & Spirits store located at 2120 N. Farwell Ave. Owners Sarah and Michael Thompson, who have operated the wine shop since 2018, saw an opportunity to expand their business amid growing demand for experiential drinking spots in the city. "We've always been more than just a bottle shop," Sarah Thompson explained in an interview. "Our customers come in looking for recommendations, stories behind the wines, and a place to linger. This bar is our way of turning those interactions into something more immersive." The Thompsons, both certified sommeliers with backgrounds in hospitality—Sarah from stints at high-end Chicago restaurants and Michael from wine distribution—have poured their passion into this project, investing over $150,000 in renovations to create a welcoming enclave.

Stepping inside, patrons are greeted by a sleek, modern design that contrasts beautifully with the shop's traditional shelving. The bar area features a 12-seat polished walnut counter, accented by soft pendant lighting and exposed brick walls adorned with minimalist art depicting vineyard landscapes. Comfortable lounge seating for about 20 more guests spills into an adjacent nook, complete with plush armchairs and low tables ideal for intimate gatherings. The space is designed to feel like an extension of one's living room, encouraging relaxed conversations over glasses of wine. Ambient jazz playlists and subtle aromas of aged oak and fresh herbs enhance the sensory experience, making it a perfect spot for date nights, after-work unwinds, or casual meetups.

At the heart of The Bar at Waterford is its extensive wine selection, drawing directly from the shop's inventory of over 1,500 labels. The menu emphasizes by-the-glass pours, with prices ranging from $8 for approachable house reds to $25 for premium selections like a bold Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon or a crisp Burgundy Chardonnay. Flights are a highlight, curated around themes such as "Old World vs. New World" or "Sustainable Sips," allowing guests to sample three to five wines for $18 to $30. The Thompsons have prioritized diversity, featuring bottles from underrepresented regions like Slovenia, South Africa, and even local Wisconsin producers. "We're not just about the big names," Michael Thompson noted. "We want to introduce Milwaukeeans to hidden gems, like a funky orange wine from Georgia or a pét-nat from Oregon's Willamette Valley."

To complement the wines, the bar offers a concise menu of small plates crafted in partnership with local chef Elena Vasquez, formerly of a nearby farm-to-table eatery. Dishes are designed for sharing and pairing, with options like artisanal cheese boards ($15) featuring Wisconsin-made blues and cheddars alongside house-made preserves and nuts. Charcuterie selections ($18) include prosciutto, salami, and pâté sourced from regional purveyors, while vegetarian-friendly bites such as marinated olives, stuffed dates with goat cheese, and bruschetta topped with heirloom tomatoes and basil ($10-$12) round out the offerings. For something heartier, there's a rotating flatbread special, perhaps with prosciutto, arugula, and balsamic glaze, priced at $14. Vasquez emphasizes seasonality, promising to incorporate fresh produce from the East Side Farmers Market during warmer months. "Wine is about balance, and so is our food," she said. "We aim for flavors that enhance without overwhelming the palate."

Education plays a pivotal role in the bar's ethos, setting it apart from typical watering holes. Weekly tasting events, held every Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m., are free with the purchase of a flight and led by the Thompsons or guest sommeliers. These sessions delve into topics like wine regions, grape varietals, and pairing techniques, fostering a community of learners. Private classes for groups of up to 10 are available by reservation, covering everything from blind tastings to wine and chocolate pairings. The bar also hosts monthly "Winemaker Nights," where producers from around the world visit to share their stories and pour samples. "Milwaukee has a thirsty crowd for knowledge," Sarah Thompson observed. "We've seen people who start as beginners leave as enthusiasts, and that's incredibly rewarding."

The opening comes at a time when Milwaukee's East Side is experiencing a renaissance in its culinary landscape. Neighborhood staples like bars, breweries, and restaurants have long drawn crowds, but wine-focused venues have been somewhat scarce compared to beer-centric spots. The Bar at Waterford fills this niche, joining establishments like the nearby Third Coast Provisions for elevated dining and Odd Duck for creative small plates. Its integration with the retail shop adds a unique twist: patrons can sip a glass, fall in love with a wine, and purchase a bottle to take home on the spot, often at a discounted rate for bar guests. This seamless blend of bar and boutique appeals to a broad demographic, from young professionals in the area to retirees seeking a sophisticated afternoon outing.

Community response has been overwhelmingly positive since the soft opening two weeks prior. Regulars at Waterford Wine & Spirits have praised the addition, with one longtime customer, local artist Jamie Ruiz, calling it "a game-changer for the neighborhood." "I used to pop in for a bottle and leave," Ruiz said. "Now, I can stay, chat with the staff, and discover new favorites without feeling rushed." The bar operates Tuesday through Saturday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., with extended hours on weekends until midnight, and is closed Sundays and Mondays to align with the shop's schedule. Reservations are recommended for larger groups but not required, ensuring accessibility.

Looking ahead, the Thompsons have ambitious plans to expand the concept. They're eyeing pop-up events in collaboration with local breweries for wine-beer hybrid tastings and even outdoor patio seating come spring. Sustainability is another focus, with efforts to source eco-friendly wines and minimize waste through reusable glassware and compostable serveware. "This is just the beginning," Michael Thompson enthused. "We want The Bar at Waterford to become a cornerstone of Milwaukee's wine scene, a place where people connect over great bottles and even better stories."

In a city known for its beer heritage, this new wine bar represents a refreshing evolution, inviting Milwaukeeans to broaden their horizons one sip at a time. Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or simply curious, The Bar at Waterford offers an inviting gateway to the world of wine, right in the heart of the East Side.

(Word count: 1,048)

Read the Full Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Article at:
[ https://www.jsonline.com/story/entertainment/2025/07/18/new-milwaukee-wine-bar-opens-on-east-side-at-waterford-wine-spirits/85276631007/ ]