Holiday:
Slow down and savor lunch at these atmospheric spots.
Take a slow, easy lunch; slip into the “new” At Random for a cocktail; and take tea like you’re Queen Elizabeth.
Erv’s Mug 130 W. Ryan Rd., 414-762-5010
In 1981, Erv and Barb Kazik started decorating their then 2-year-old Oak Creek bar with simple red bows. Their festooning and bedecking efforts grew to theme rooms and motorized decorations suspended from the ceiling. On one November day, a team of staff, family and friends creates the wonderland fit for Buddy the Elf. While it seems every inch of wall and ceiling space is covered in dazzling décor, second-generation owner Danielle Baerwald still hunts for festive finds that “in a house, would be gaudy” but stand a chance of being noticed at Erv’s. (Look for the “flying” sled). Come Wednesday and Friday for the all-day fish fry – cod or perch. Or try the prime rib sandwich with horseradish and au jus. $10-$19.
Blue’s Egg 317 N. 76th St., 414-299-3180; 4195 N. Oakland Ave., 414-312-8551
Tackling American immigrant cooking with a fresh approach, both locations are doing a German-themed menu for the month (available alongside the regular menu) featuring meats and cheeses and hear ty specials such as Hahn chen schnitzel, a breaded chicken breast with buttered spaetzle, poached eggs, Dusseldorf hollandaise and curry fries. Also expect baked goods like rugelach and Linzer torte and drinks (spiked eggnog, hot toddy) sure to add a healthy glow to your cheeks. $5.95-$15.50.
Buckley’s 801 N. Cass St., 414-277-1111
This family-run bistro located in an 1897 Italianate building is pure warmth on a cold day. It doesn’t close between lunch and dinner service, so diners can linger over coffee or a Nutcracker Manhattan. And the menu of comforts with classy touches (things like oyster Caesar salad, lobster roll, Monte Cristo sandwich) is going to make you want to, happily, stay exactly where you are. The massive Buckley’s expansion, encompassing three connected buildings (and thereby tripling the restaurant’s size and seating capacity), is finally winding to a close. The coziness should remain, and the makeover not only gives the staff the ability to flex more menu muscle, but it also gives co-owner Pam Buckley her longed-for pastry kitchen. Do not leave without getting a slice of her carrot cake or cheesecake. The decorating work here takes an elegant turn, a blend of twinkling white lights and garland greenery. $6-$19.