Consistently popular since opening in September of 2002, our East Side restaurant provides the highest quality seasonal dishes using local meats & produce with a first-class wine and beer selection. The dining ambiance is pleasantly casual and intimate, with seating available in a charming interior setting or romantic garden patio.
Upscale casual American bistro serving seasonal local fare plus beer & wine in a space with a patio. Based on 374 reviews, the restaurant has received a rating of 4.6 stars. Price $$$
✔️ Dine-in ✔️ Curbside pickup ✔️ No delivery
Address:
2499 N Bartlett Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53211
Phone: (414) 964-8377
Social Profile: 
Hours
| Tuesday | 5–9 PM |
| Wednesday | 5–9 PM |
| Thursday | 5–9 PM |
| Friday | 5–9 PM |
| Saturday | 5–9 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday | Closed |
Menu
… View more
Photo Gallery
Reviews
terri c
We had a wonderful evening meal out on their quaint patio. The food and service were excellent. Don’t miss the fresh loaf of bread….and don’t make the mistake of only getting half a loaf! Tess is a Milwaukee gem.
… more
Montana Krukowski
Definitely go enjoy a meal here. $$/$$$ prices but portions were fulfilling. We wanted to try somewhere new and we’re headed for Original but saw the patio across the street and glad we changed plans. Service was so PLEASANT and the outdoor space was really cute. Food was some of the best I’ve had in Milwaukee. Steak in the mushroom and wine reduction was so good I asked for more bread (also delicious) to sop up the leftover juices. My friend got the ravioli and I stole a couple extra bites from his plate. Honorable mention goes to the neighborhood setting of the location. Vibe and atmosphere was perfect for casual conversations/small celebrations/nice meal with old friends/date night.
… more
Kathryn
This is one of my top favorite restaurants in Milwaukee! Great ambiance both indoors and on the beautiful patio! Food is always delicious with fresh ingredients and incredible flavors! I’ve been here several times and am just as blown away every time!
… more
oz french
By far one of the best meals we have had. We live in DC area with many good restaurants and Tess was better than some of our best restaurants. We had Porkbelly appetizer, Patio salad, Porkchop special and Scottish Salmon. All excellent! And drinks were great. Super waitress too! Milwaukee is lucky to have a restaurant like this!
… more
Sarah B
Was sat outside on the patio next to the electrical box and a bunch of wires. Took over 45 minutes for our entre food to arrive and when it did, it was cold and severely over-salted.
… more
B Ross
Tonight we enjoyed a wonderful dining experience with dear friends at Tess. The food was absolutely fabulous, and we enjoyed a beautiful evening on the patio. We have been fans of Tess for many years, but tonight was exceptional! Bravo Tess! You are a gem!
… more
Courtnie Korpela
Every bite and sip was superb along with the service and ambience. We ordered everything gluten free and will be sure to return in the future. Wonderful date night!
… more
Rae Piette
Beautiful outdoor seating area–we didn’t know we’d be dining outdoors so I didn’t bring a jacket or sweater. Luckily, they have a basket of fleece blankets by the door if you find yourself in the same situation! The food was just incredible. The fresh bread served when you are seated is fresh out of the oven, nice and warm to melt the butter! I highly recommend the carnitas (pork) taquitos for an appetizer, but rest assured anything you eat will be delicious. Each dish we ordered had a perfect balance of flavors. Pair it with a groupon for an AMAZING value!
… more
Jayna Marie
Definitely A hidden spot on the east side. The cioppino was out of this world! Mussels were super fresh, sauces were absolutely delish. We also shared a well put together Mediterranean salad with a citrus vinaigrette. Not to mention the flourless chocolate cake and butterscotch pudding was the highlight of my day. 10/10 would recommend especially those with gluten allergies the waitress and cook was super accommodating! they also have a very good wine list!
… more
Elmoore Audain
Would I dine here again? – No
… more
… View more