Palomino Bar — Restaurant in Milwaukee

A group of us visited Palomino after trying Honeypie, but realizing the wait would be too long. There was an understandable wait at Palomino as well, but we thought it would be worth it. Wrong. We had wanted drinks while waiting, but were met with "In a sec--" from the bartender, who then never returned. There were a total of 12 people at the bar, including my six friends (I counted!) After finally receiving drinks from a different bartender (after some 20 minutes of standing awkwardly by the bar), we were satisfied for the time being.

Being a manager at a similar style, full-service restaurant and bar, I can certainly appreciate being busy! It's a good thing! But it seemed as though they were either understaffed, or the bartenders were simply not up to snuff. Anyway, after being seated, our server was VERY pleasant. She promptly brought drinks and waters, and was quite personable. The food came out just as we had ordered (and there were some special requests), so we were moderately impressed. (Keep in mind, this was a table full of service industry staff). The food was hot and delicious, with the minor issue of a hair being found in someone's food. Again, this is something I can overlook, as it was certainly not intentional, and while not appetizing, is simply an honest mistake.

What I cannot overlook, however, is the attitude of one of the bartenders. We had closed our tab with the server, and decided on one more round of drinks, which we went to the bar to order. My friend placed the order, and it seemed as though there was a lapse in communication, as the incorrect drinks were poured. When I tried explaining what we really wanted to her, I was met with an incredibly hostile attitude indicating that WE had ordered improperly, and the fault was with us, and not a simple misunderstanding. I said that I was sorry to inconvenience her, and asked that the drinks be poured into different glasses. Meanwhile, both the other bartender and patrons seated at the bar were also trying to explain to her what we wanted. She then mockingly laughed at me, and asked "why was I getting so mad?" I told her I wasn't mad, just that I thought she was being quite rude. She simply walked off, without completing our transaction, or the drinks.

This woman has no business working in the service industry, and is the direct cause of why the Palomino has lost seven potentially returning customers. I have never been treated with such disdain, and complete disrespect as I was on this occasion. We spent well over $200, and were thanked for it with a figurative slap in the face. Unfortunately, while the food and table-side service were good, I am not able to recommend...

Had a great time... alone with my friend! Not too busy on the weeknight we visited. But we did arrive in time to enjoy a early evening appetizer! Something I've only dreamed of! "Chicken Cracklings!" That's right... Fried Chicken Skins with a nice spicy hot seasoning. Did some research on the dish. Found out locally they have appeared only a few times over the decades. First appearance was by noted local Chef Mark Mouradian! Yes my brother. We come from a family of cooks that include everything from my Grandmother Agnes, Chief Cook & Bottle Washer at the infamous West Allis bar & coffee shop she owned & operated for decades... "The Pub." Long gone, but over the years all the relatives pulled a shift. We all evolved to love food & creating. The simple Cafe & Bar is responsible for the recognition of family members including not only home cooks, Recognized Chefs and even one Michelin rated Milwaukee restauranture!

Enough about the lineage! So decades ago, the Chicken Cracklins disappeared from local menus! Until I discovered a reincarnation of the Chicken Crackling that was created in the likeness of my brother's concoction but different enough to have been a coincidental original thought! Did I mention "DELISIOUS!" I couldnt get enough. My dinner companion couldn't handle the mild spiciness or "richness" of Crispy Fried Chicken Skin." For me... I have a new favorite latenight bayview appetizer spot. Stop in most nights, you're likely to see me devouring these delectable mouth watering treats! BTW, this appetizer is KETO...

My husband and I have been to Palomino several times for both dinner and brunch. We went back for brunch this past weekend after some time away and found a renewed affection for their vegetarian chicken and the overall yummy selection of comfort foods and sides. My husband had the hot chicken sandwich made vegetarian and I had the vegetarian chicken and waffles. I always find it really exciting being able to take part in what is normally a very meat-centric dish. And I feel like both of these options, and all of those we have tried in the past, have been fulfilling and not just sad substitutes. Additionally, many of the vegetarian options are actually vegan. So there's a lot of effort being made to accommodate varying levels of meat-free, which I appreciate. That being said, their cheesy hashbrown casserole is a real delight (though definitely not vegan).

The space itself is very laid back and casual. It has a very all-american feel and feels like a comfortable place to have a chicken dinner with friends. Also, during the warmer months, you can have your meal outdoors on their patio space.

Even though we hadn't been in months, I think Palomino will be a front runner choice whenever we're aching for some comfort food that doesn't feel too...