Rise & Grind Cafe — Restaurant in Milwaukee

Listen… when I say Rise and Grind is that spot, I mean it with my whole chest. Black-owned, soulful, and straight-up unforgettable. I pulled up on a chill morning and ordered the catfish and grits, scrambled eggs with cheese, and a fresh OJ—and let me tell you… that CATFISH? Baby. OMG. Crispy on the outside, seasoned to perfection, flaky and tender on the inside. It gave southern roots with a Midwest remix. Had me lowkey emotional.

Then I saw Grams come out the kitchen and I knew exactly what time it was. She had that “I been doing this since y’all was playing outside ’til the streetlights came on” energy. I already knew I was gon’ do my hot portions dirty. And did. LOL. Big back activities activated.

Now don’t roll in here thinking it’s fast food—this ain’t that. You gon’ wait a little bit, but trust me, greatness takes time. The vibes are smooth, the playlist was hitting (90s, early 2000 vibe), and the staff was friendly, professional, and welcoming. You can tell they love what they do and pour that energy into every plate.

The grits were creamy, not watery (thank God!), and paired with the catfish like they was born to be together. Eggs? Fluffy with just the right amount of cheese—no shortcuts here.

If you’re in Milwaukee and not tapping in with Rise and Grind, what are you really doing? This spot is Black excellence on a plate. Pull up, vibe out, eat good, and leave full in both belly and back. Salute to the whole team—y’all...

This little cafe is amazing! I'm addicted to the sandwich and smoothie combo! I love that I can get spinach instead of lettuce to make my sandwich healthier. The marbled rye I like is always fresh and moist, never dry. Big smiles and great conversation from Peace, the manager at the Teutonia location, got me going once or twice a week! And she's always got some smooth mood music playing to keep my toe tapping. Maybe I shouldn't make this review, I don't want the lines getting too long hahaha! Just kidding she takes pre-orders over the phone. I've brought guys from work too and they love it. It's our fav new lunch spot! Keep up the...

In the heart of a historical neighborhood, you'll find this cafe', where old Milwaukee meets new Milwaukee. Here, the staff is friendly and the chef's take time to craft delectable food and baristas serve tasty coffee and smoothies. I must add that Rise and Grind Cafe' is the only establishment that I found that offers vegan soul food options regularly, in addition to made-to-order vegan breakfast items such as french toast, eggs, sausage, grits. But wait, plant based hot dogs, burgers, and deli sandwiches are on the menu also! I would...