Speaking of 31 beers on tap (for anyone who read last week’s column), I received another good tip on a watering hole just outside the city. However, Benno’s Genuine Bar & Grill has only 29 tap beers—30 if you include the root beer.
I expected to end up in a smoky corner tavern judging from Benno’s façade. I made my way through their propped-open front door and joined my companion at the bar. The tap list rested in front of me, and after a brief browse I ordered the Stone I.P.A. It’s wise to be cautious of your beer selections, here—some ABV levels push 10 percent.
Looking around at the wood paneled, clutter-laden, walls—old license plates, business cards, newspaper mailboxes and beer signage— I got the feeling I was in some happening basement. The back room had an arcade area including Harley pinball, a shootin’ game with plastic rifles and one of those nifty claw machines. Outdoor seating is available on the patio out back. There’s also a sectioned off room with several wooden tables for dining at the genuine grill.
Our bartender was a hoot looking for a chat. “What brings you all out tonight?” “Did you just say you think Conan O’Brien is sexy?” These were among a few interjections. We watched the Tonight Show, read the captions and were often in-synch with the “laughter” display text.
Satellite radio played music ranging from E.L.O. to AC/DC to Kris Kristofferson, and the digital jukebox in the corner also offered an extensive catalogue. We relaxed for a couple of hours and I must say, I had a surprisingly fine time in West Allis. Benno’s is a cozy hangout with a nice crowd. My companion, who is a West Allis resident, insists there is no other bar like it in the neighborhood. I’d be surprised if their was.
Bradford Beach House
2400 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive
Saturday, July 4
The Miller Lite Ms. Bradford Beach Pageant with live music by Chapman Party of 5 and The Championship. Check out the Web site for more details.
Benno’s Genuine Bar & Grill
7413 West Greenfield
Mondays
$1 off all taps and three sliders for $3.
Thief Wine Shop & Bar
400 N. Water Street
Tuesday, July 7
Gruner
Stonefly Brewery
735 E. Center St.
Saturday, July 4
10 p.m.
Firey Phoenix
Apartment 720
720 N. Milwaukee St.
Fridays
Every Friday enjoy $5 tall Three Olives grape and cherry mixers and $100 bottles of Three Olives grape and cherry. Featuring sounds by DJ Wizz Kid, doors open at 10 p.m.
The Gig
1132 E. Wright St.
Tuesdays
Try a $12 bucket of Bell’s beer.
Mad Planet
533 E. Center St.
Saturday, July 4
9 p.m.
Chalice in the Palace presents: Chalice at the Planet DJ Avets, DJ Suresh, DJ Eltronix, DJ Prince Ruff, DJ Marcus Garvey.
And from 9 p.m.-midnight, enjoy $3 Red Stripe and $2 PBR.
Brocach Irish Pub and Restaurant
1850 N. Water St.
Monday, June 29
Check out Brocach’s Monday movie night on the patio with free kettle corn and $2.50 Lakefront bottles. This Monday, The Big Lebowski. Try a White Russian with this film.
Café Lulu
2265 S. Howell Ave.
Wednesdays
Don’t miss Wino Wednesdays beginning at 5 p.m. Half price on all list bottles!
Blackbird
3007 S. Kinnickinnic Ave.
Tuesdays
Blackbird offers one of my new favorite Happy Hour specials: Free tacos from Hector’s, 4-8 p.m. or until supplies last. Also, $4 Margaritas and $2 Pacifico and Corona
Cactus Club
2496 S. Wentworth
Thursday, July 2
10 p.m.
The Paper Chase, Call Me Lightning, Red Knife Lottery
Don’t miss this week’s Nikol Knows column for advice on when it’s right to take a relationship physical.
3 Comments
Benno's also has the license for the Wisconsin Craft Beers at Wisconsin State Fair. Fun place,
Actually, Benno's is run by Marty & Suzie Marty's brother, whose name is Benno, runs the Craft Beer Tent at the Fair. Carly, I know your job is to talk about the drinking aspect of the establishments you visit, but your readers should also know that Benno's has a Friday Fish Fry that is so fabulous that you'll never even bother to look for another the potato pancakes are to die for. Additionally, their chicken and ribs are absolutely top notch.
And your comment program does not allow for semi-colons!!!