Bar
Unclaimed profileBlu
Milwaukee, WI · $$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Blu's beverage program is a high-altitude playground for spirits enthusiasts. Signature cocktails are inventive and uniformly priced at $18, with a dedicated zero-proof menu using Seedlip. The spirits list is vast, including rare bourbons, scotches, and cognacs. Wine and champagne selections are extensive, and local craft beers provide a grounded counterpoint.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Skyline Old Fashioned or Guido's Perfect Manhattan, both $18. For something bolder, the Slow Burn Martini or The Green Room Marg. If abstaining, the Blood Orange Marg or Pineapple Basil Sour are $15. Spirits lovers should consider a pour of Blanton's or Yamazaki 18.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Cocktail enthusiasts seeking a polished martini bar experience, spirits collectors interested in rare pours, and those who appreciate a well-crafted zero-proof cocktail. The extensive wine list also suits oenophiles, while the tea service appeals to a broader audience.
- When should I go?
- Evenings for live music on Fridays and Saturdays, or for a sophisticated cocktail hour. The Afternoon Tea experience offers a daytime option with tea blending.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Signature cocktails are $18; zero-proof cocktails are $15. Domestic beers $5, imported/craft $7. Wine by the glass from $14, bottles up to $470 for premium champagne. Premium spirits pours range from $45 to over $500.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- A 23rd-floor setting with panoramic views, a reputation as a popular martini bar, and a beverage program that spans from $5 domestic beers to $524 pours of Louis XIII. The dedicated zero-proof menu and tableside tea blending add versatility.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Cocktails
A creative list of eight signature cocktails, from a bourbon-forward old fashioned to a gin-based lavender press. The zero-proof menu is thoughtful, using Seedlip.
Menu strengths
- — Inventive signature cocktails with balanced ingredients; Dedicated zero-proof cocktail menu with Seedlip
- — Community acclaim for specific martinis and bartender skill
Standout selections
- — Skyline Old Fashioned – Knob Creek Bourbon, Amaro Montenegro, simple syrup, bitters
- — Guido's Perfect Manhattan – Woodford Reserve, Carpano Antica, Carpano Bianco, Luxardo
- — Slow Burn Martini – Wheatley Vodka, tangerine ginger syrup, serrano, sparkling rosé
Pricing: Signature cocktails $18 each; zero-proof cocktails $15 each.
Wine
An extensive list covering sparkling, red, white, and port. Champagne selection includes top names like Dom Pérignon and Ace of Spades. Regional coverage spans Sonoma, Napa, Marlborough, and Paso Robles, with multiple serving sizes.
Menu strengths
- — International wine selection with multiple price points; Premium Champagne options
Standout selections
- — Armand de Brignac Ace of Spades – $470
- — Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley – $180
Pricing: Wine by glass from $14; bottles up to $470 for Champagne.
Beer
A straightforward bottle list with domestic standards, a few imports, and local Wisconsin craft choices. Includes non-alcoholic options like Clausthaler and Athletic Free Wave. No draft offerings, but the local representation is a plus.
Menu strengths
- — Local Wisconsin craft beers; Non-alcoholic beer options; Clear, simple pricing
Standout selections
- — New Glarus Spotted Cow – Farmhouse Ale
- — Lakefront IPA – India Pale Ale
- — Athletic Free Wave N/A – Hazy IPA
Pricing: Domestic bottles $5; imported and craft bottles $7.
Nonalcoholic
A dedicated zero-proof cocktail menu using Seedlip, with four creative options. Non-alcoholic beers add variety. The Afternoon Tea service offers a wide tea selection, with guests noting 15 different teas.
Menu strengths
- — Dedicated zero-proof cocktail menu using Seedlip; Non-alcoholic beer options
Standout selections
- — Blood Orange Marg – Seedlip Grove, Notas de Agave, blood orange, lime
- — Pineapple Basil Sour – Seedlip Garden, pineapple, basil, agave
- — Peach Blossom – Seedlip Grove, peach, lemon, Tajin
Pricing: Zero-proof cocktails $15 each; non-alcoholic beers $7.
Spirits
A vast spirits collection covering all major categories, with notable depth in bourbon, scotch, and tequila. Includes rare bottles like Blanton's, Macallan 18, Clase Azul Ultra, and Louis XIII. Pours available in two sizes.
Menu strengths
- — Very extensive selection across all spirits categories; Rare and high-end offerings
Standout selections
- — Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon – $45/74
- — Macallan 18 Year Scotch – $62/103
- — Remy Martin Louis XIII Cognac – $315/524
Pricing: Spirits priced per 1.5oz and 3oz pours; premiums like Macallan 30 Year at $379/631.
How it sits with the food
The Green Room Marg's cucumber-basil whip would pair with light seafood; the Rum Shower's green grape and orange blossom could complement spicy dishes. The extensive wine list offers pairing options for any menu, though food specifics are not detailed.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
Community reviews
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