Milwaukee, Wisconsin, a city proudly known for its brewing heritage, vibrant festivals, and a hearty blend of German and Polish influences, also boasts an incredibly rich and diverse culinary landscape. Beyond the large breweries and upscale dining, Cream City is teeming with iconic local eateries serving up fantastic, budget-friendly bites that truly capture the city's unique spirit. We've explored cherished institutions and neighborhood gems, along with glowing customer reviews, to bring you a curated list of 10 must-try dishes, all for under $10, that will satisfy your cravings and introduce you to the authentic, delicious flavors of Milwaukee.

1. Milwaukee-Style Bratwurst from Usinger's Famous Sausage

  • Restaurant: Usinger's Famous Sausage (deli counter)

  • Description: A perfectly grilled Milwaukee-style bratwurst, made with Usinger's renowned fresh sausage, served hot on a bun.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Usinger's Famous Sausage is a Milwaukee institution, a legendary sausage maker with over 140 years of history. While their products are sold widely, grabbing a hot bratwurst directly from their downtown deli counter is a quintessential local experience. Yelp reviewers consistently hail it as "A Milwaukee institution, best brats" and praise its "fresh and flavorful" taste. It's an essential, delicious, and incredibly affordable taste of Milwaukee's heritage.

  • Price: ~$4-$6 (for a hot bratwurst from the deli)

  • Location: 1030 N Old World 3rd St, Milwaukee, WI 53203

2. Fried Cheese Curds from The Vanguard

  • Restaurant: The Vanguard

  • Description: A small order of fresh, squeaky Wisconsin cheese curds, lightly battered and fried golden brown, often served with a dipping sauce.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: The Vanguard is a popular local spot in Milwaukee's Bay View neighborhood, known for its extensive sausage menu and, of course, its fantastic Wisconsin cheese curds. Yelp reviewers consistently rave about their "delicious, squeaky cheese curds!" and describe them as "crispy and addictive." It's a perfect, shareable (or not!) and affordable taste of Wisconsin's famous dairy product.

  • Price: ~$8-$10 (for a small order)

  • Location: 2659 S Kinnickinnic Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207

3. Pierogi from Polonez Restaurant

  • Restaurant: Polonez Restaurant

  • Description: A small order of authentic Polish pierogi, typically filled with savory potato and cheese, meat, or sauerkraut, served pan-fried or boiled with butter and onions.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Polonez Restaurant is a beloved local Polish eatery in Milwaukee, serving traditional dishes in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere since 1982. Yelp reviewers consistently praise their "authentic homemade pierogi," highlighting their "flavorful fillings" and noting they are "just like grandma's." A small order offers a comforting and affordable taste of Milwaukee's strong Polish heritage.

  • Price: ~$8-$10 (for a small order, e.g., 5-6 pierogi)

  • Location: 4016 S Packard Ave, St Francis, WI 53235 (just outside Milwaukee, a local favorite)

4. Taco (Al Pastor or Carnitas) from Conejito's Place

  • Restaurant: Conejito's Place

  • Description: A simple, authentic Mexican street-style taco with flavorful fillings like al pastor or carnitas, served on a warm tortilla with classic toppings.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Conejito's Place is a Milwaukee institution, a no-frills, cash-only spot famous for its incredibly cheap and authentic Mexican food, served in a lively, old-school atmosphere. Yelp reviewers consistently call it "old school Mexican, best cheap tacos" and praise its "dive bar vibes, amazing food." It's a truly unique, delicious, and incredibly budget-friendly slice of Milwaukee's culinary history.

  • Price: ~$2-$3 per taco

  • Location: 539 W Virginia St, Milwaukee, WI 53204

5. Slice of Kringle from O&H Danish Bakery

  • Restaurant: O&H Danish Bakery (Milwaukee locations)

  • Description: A large slice of Wisconsin's official state pastry – a flaky, buttery, oval-shaped Danish pastry filled with various sweet fillings.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: While O&H Danish Bakery has locations beyond Milwaukee, it's a beloved Wisconsin institution that produces the iconic Kringle. Grabbing a slice in Milwaukee offers an authentic taste of this famous pastry. Yelp reviewers consistently praise the "flaky, buttery, delicious kringle!" and call it a "Wisconsin must-have." It's a perfect, sweet, and affordable treat to experience a true regional specialty.

  • Price: ~$4-$6 per slice

  • Location: Multiple locations in Milwaukee (e.g., 5922 N Green Bay Ave, Glendale, WI 53209)

6. Drip Coffee from Colectivo Coffee

  • Restaurant: Colectivo Coffee

  • Description: A freshly brewed cup of high-quality, locally roasted drip coffee, served in one of their distinct and often vibrant cafe spaces.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Colectivo Coffee is a hugely popular local coffee roaster and cafe chain in Milwaukee, with numerous beloved locations. While they have expanded, they maintain a strong local presence and commitment to quality. Yelp reviewers consistently praise their "great coffee" and "cool atmosphere," calling it their "go-to for a morning brew." It's the perfect spot for an affordable and top-notch caffeine fix that deeply reflects Milwaukee's coffee culture.

  • Price: ~$3.50-$4.50

  • Location: Multiple locations in Milwaukee (e.g., 223 E St Paul Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202)

7. Slice of Pizza from Ian's Pizza

  • Restaurant: Ian's Pizza

  • Description: A large, New York-style pizza slice, famous for its thin, crispy crust and often creative, unique topping combinations (including Mac n' Cheese pizza).

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Ian's Pizza is a popular local gourmet pizza by the slice spot in Milwaukee, known for its inventive flavors and late-night availability. Yelp reviewers consistently praise their "creative toppings" and "huge slices," often calling it "perfect late-night pizza." It's a fun, satisfying, and very affordable way to grab a unique and substantial bite of pizza.

  • Price: ~$4-$5 per slice

  • Location: Multiple locations in Milwaukee (e.g., 2035 E North Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202)

8. Falafel Sandwich from Shawarma House

  • Restaurant: Shawarma House

  • Description: Crispy, fried chickpea falafel patties, fresh vegetables, and creamy tahini sauce, all generously wrapped in warm pita bread.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Shawarma House is a well-regarded local Middle Eastern restaurant in Milwaukee, celebrated for its authentic flavors and fresh ingredients. Yelp reviewers consistently praise their "crispy falafel, fresh ingredients," and highlight the "great sauces." It's a reliable, satisfying, and incredibly affordable choice for a delicious and healthy-ish meal, reflecting Milwaukee's diverse culinary landscape.

  • Price: ~$8-$9

  • Location: 310 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53203

9. Single Scoop Frozen Custard from Kopp's Frozen Custard

  • Restaurant: Kopp's Frozen Custard

  • Description: A single scoop of their rich, dense, and incredibly creamy frozen custard, available in classic flavors or daily rotating specialties.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Kopp's Frozen Custard is an iconic Milwaukee institution, a beloved local chain that has been serving up its famous custard since 1950. While it has multiple locations, it's deeply ingrained in the local culture. Yelp reviewers consistently declare it the "Best custard in Milwaukee!" and praise its "rich, creamy, classic flavors." It's the perfect, refreshing, and affordable treat to savor a true taste of Milwaukee's sweet heritage.

  • Price: ~$4-$5 per scoop

  • Location: Multiple locations in Milwaukee (e.g., 7631 W Appleton Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53222)

10. Hot Ham & Roll from Canfora Bakery

Location: 1107 E Oklahoma Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207

  • Restaurant: Canfora Bakery

  • Description: A classic Milwaukee tradition – thinly sliced, warm ham served on a fresh, crusty roll.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Canfora Bakery is a local Milwaukee bakery known for its Italian pastries and, uniquely, its popular hot ham and rolls, especially on Sundays. It's a beloved local tradition for many Milwaukeeans. Yelp reviewers often praise the "fresh rolls" and the "simple, delicious" nature of the hot ham. It's a classic, affordable, and authentic taste of a unique Milwaukee culinary ritual.

  • Price: ~$6-$8

Milwaukee's dynamic food scene proves that incredible flavors don't have to come with a hefty price tag, especially when you explore its amazing local establishments. From iconic brats and fried cheese curds to authentic pierogi and refreshing frozen custard, these ten dishes under $10 offer a fantastic way to explore the city's diverse and locally-driven culinary landscape. So, whether you're a long-time resident or just passing through, make sure to savor these delicious and affordable bites that showcase Milwaukee's unique charm!

Price Comparison Table

Dish Restaurant Price (Approx.) Location
Milwaukee-Style Bratwurst Usinger's Famous Sausage $4-$6 1030 N Old World 3rd St, Milwaukee, WI 53203
Fried Cheese Curds The Vanguard $8-$10 2659 S Kinnickinnic Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207
Pierogi Polonez Restaurant $8-$10 4016 S Packard Ave, St Francis, WI 53235
Taco Conejito's Place $2-$3 per 539 W Virginia St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Slice of Kringle O&H Danish Bakery $4-$6 per Multiple locations in Milwaukee
Drip Coffee Colectivo Coffee $3.50-$4.50 Multiple locations in Milwaukee
Slice of Pizza Ian's Pizza $4-$5 per Multiple locations in Milwaukee
Falafel Sandwich Shawarma House $8-$9 310 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53203
Single Scoop Frozen Custard Kopp's Frozen Custard $4-$5 per Multiple locations in Milwaukee
Hot Ham & Roll Canfora Bakery $6-$8 1107 E Oklahoma Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207