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The Local Gems of Wauwatosa
When people ask what to do in Wisconsin, it’s likely that you’ll either hear about Milwaukee, the largest city, or Madison, the capital city. However, we’re here to show you that there’s another unique and inviting way of exploring the Midwest. If you’re planning a trip to the area, we invite you to stop by and see us—and uncover the hidden gems of Wauwatosa.
Restaurants & Drinks
Dine, drink, and rejoice like a local at these authentic Tosa spots:
Cranky Al’s: Signature handmade doughnuts, delicious coffee, and breakfast treats all day…where do we sign up? This Tosa favorite offers items such as hand-cut doughnuts in a variety of flavors – like their maple bacon doughnut or crosonut (a croissant and doughnut hybrid) – muffins, scones, breakfast sandwiches, breakfast burritos, and responsibly sourced coffee.
Ristorante Bartolotta: This hotspot Italian eatery is located inside the historic Pabst brewery in Wauwatosa’s Village and serves as the flagship of the Bartolotta Restaurant Group. It’s the perfect cozy yet intimate place where you can enjoy decadent handmade pasta and an extensive wine list.
The Ruby Tap: Find an assortment of wines from around the globe at this exciting and women-owned self-serve wine bar, owned by sister-duo Brooke and Sarah. Relish in small plates featuring Wisconsin cheeses, charcuterie, and desserts. Fun fact: this cozy neighborhood wine bar is named after Brooke and Sarah’s grandmother, Ruby!
Gathering Place: This brewpub experience in East Wauwatosa has made it its mission to craft vibrant and unique beers that reflect the vibrant and unique community that it calls home. Here in Wauwatosa, Gathering Place offers a rotating selection of draft beers so you can explore the current tap list with each visit.
Bakeries
Indulge in a sweet treat with these decadent Tosa desserts:
Rocket Baby Bakery: If you’re in the mood for artisan breads, pastries (danishes, croissants, cookies, eclairs etc.), coffee, and espresso, this bakery is ready to curb your appetite. Their goods are created daily from scratch, using locally-sourced ingredients.
Simma’s Bakery: This small family-oriented bakery focuses on superior quality and taste, serving fine cheesecakes, signature cakes, and pastries. Get your sweet tooth on!
La Tarte: A place that’s described as specializing in edibles for discriminating taste buds, this neighborhood bakery and coffee house is sure to do just that. Offering pies, seasonal and custom cookies, tortes, bars and even custom gift boxes/orders, you’ll certainly get a taste of France.
Attractions
You’ve made it to Tosa, now what can you do?
Little Red Store: A prized possession in the town of Tosa, this little store was built in 1854. The Little Red Store has housed and outlived many of the trades that were responsible for Tosa’s earliest commercial history. It is now operated by the Wauwatosa Historical Society and can be rented for meetings, weddings and special events.
Hoyt Park: If you thrive in outdoor scenery, Hoyt Park is one of the best options. With trails, a beer garden, sand volleyball, soccer, and a community swimming pool, there’s always something to keep you beaming in the sun!
East Tosa Murals: Add a burst of color to your visit with the East Tosa murals along West North Avenue — one of Wauwatosa’s most Instagrammable spots, if you ask us! You’ll see everything from a prowling raccoon carrying a fish skeleton in its mouth to a ferocious creature with six eyes.
Tosa Farmers Market: This open-air market in the heart of Tosa is the best way to start your Saturday. Opening from June through October, the market curates the best, freshest foods in the community. Not only that, but you can also find all types of makers, from soaps to skirts.
The Village: Its own complete little world, The Village offers everything from dining, drinking, and shopping right in the heart of Wauwatosa. Some of our favorites include local floral shop The Flower Lady, women’s clothing boutique Salamander, French-style patisserie Le Reve, and European-inspired Cafe Hollander.
P.S. Some of the other gems we’ve mentioned are located in The Village – Tosa Farmer’s Market, Ristorante Bartolotta and The Ruby Tap!
