Here’s to the Ladies Who Lunch

Here's To The Ladies Who Lunch,
Everybody laugh.
Lounging in their caftans and planning
a brunch, on their own behalf.

- from "Company"

I really hate to be sexist in one of my first blogposts, but for women, lunch is more than just lunch. If location doesn’t matter and you’re able to pick and choose from one of the many restaurants around Milwaukee, then it’s all about ambiance, style and a damn good salad.

I’m not talking about a typical mid-day-break-from-work type lunch. I’m talking about a serious catch-up-with-your-girlfriends-lunch where you find out girlfriend things – how the kids are, how the husbands are, how the parents are, how the grandkids are, etc. It’s a time to unload that giant load of guilt to someone who can tell you you’re awesome and it’s not your fault that _______ (insert problem here.) It’s empowering and rejuvenating and faith-restoring.

In other words, lunch with girlfriends is an experience and you need a destination worthy of that experience. It is NOT a time to load up on calories and carbs. We’re always watching our waistlines, even as they expand. We want lighter fare that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Here, in no particular order, are just a few of my favorite lunch spots:

Anabe Team Room, Shorewood – I love this place because it makes you feel like you’ve left Milwaukee. (And I LOVE Milwaukee.) If you go, and the weather is appropriate, sit on the roof and take in the view. Simply beautiful.

Le Reve, Wauwatosa – This has to be one of the hottest lunch spots in Milwaukee because it’s always JAMMED. But it’s so worth it. Everything is great and light and if you’ve saved a calorie or two, venture down to the patisserie and choose a dessert. Hands-down, it will be the best part of your day.

Parkside 23, Brookfield – In an area positively swarming with chain restaurants, Parkside 23 is a breath of fresh air. The atmosphere is contemporary and warm and the food is farm fresh and unique. Sit on the patio in the summer and be sure to check out the “farm” that’s north of the restaurant. When they say their produce is fresh, they mean it!

Juniper 61, Wauwatosa – To me, the hippest part of Milwaukee is Bay View but those of us in Tosa get a little piece of Bay View in the form of Juniper 61. (The owners also own LuLu Cafe in Bay View.) The menu is hip and different and full of great flavor. Just a cool little place.

Honeypie Café, Bay View – Speaking of Bay View, this place, to me, is worth a trip. If you decide that you’re ready for a bit of a calorie splurge, head on over for some amazing comfort food. And be sure to leave room for pie. Trust me on this.

North Star American Bistro, Shorewood and Brookfield – North Star sets a nice table and has a menu that covers all the bases. It’s a great place for a little nicer lunch if you’re not on a tight budget.

Highlands Café, Wauwatosa – Newly expanded, this tiny café now has an executive chef and is offering some great new menu items that are perfect for lunch with girlfriends. The atmosphere is urban casual and cozy.

Café Perrin, Milwaukee – Just up the street from Highlands Café, Café Perrin has become a very popular lunch destination. The salads and sandwiches are great options with interesting flavors. Order a cup of coffee just to ooh and ahh over their adorable coffee cups.

Blue’s Egg, Milwaukee – A source of major crowds for breakfast, Blue’s also offers a luncheon menu that will please any foodie, guaranteed. The décor is hip and trendy and you definitely won’t leave hungry.

Eddie Martini’s, Wauwatosa – Sometimes you have a lunch worthy of a special celebration and therefore a special destination. Eddie Martini’s is that place. Sure, they have steaks to satisfy the carnivore in your group, but their salads and soups are simply divine and worth the extra expense.