In no way am I a certified food critique.

My knowledge of food comes from the Thug Kitchen cookbooks that sit on my kitchen countertop, BuzzFeed Worth It videos, and the culinary tips my mother taught me before I left for college. Lessons that I have already forgotten. Perhaps it is my personal ineptitude when it comes to cooking that has led me to love so many Milwaukee restaurants. Since moving to Milwaukee I have come to understand that no matter where you are in the city good food is never too far away. From the street food featured at Milwaukee’s summer festivals, to the delicacies prepared in downtown Milwaukee’s high end restaurants, quality food is plentiful. But where can I find the best of the best? Here are some of my top picks.

1. Beans and Barley

Menu Pick: The Super Green Smoothie

As a pescatarian (or as my friends say, a pretentious vegetarian), Beans and Barley meets all of my veggie loving needs. Stop in for lunch and enjoy the fresh menu items, as well as the restaurants bright and lively atmosphere. Healthy never tasted so good!

2. Bel Air Cantina

Menu Pick: The Lobster Shrimp Taco

With locations all over Milwaukee, fantastic tacos are just a few minutes away. Mix and Match your favourite tacos, and try not to fill up on the widely addictive chips and salsa that come with every meal.

3. Pizza Man

Menu Pick: The Margherita Pizza

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it! Pizza Man has been a part of Milwaukee since the 1970’s, and still manages to impress customers with some of the best pizza Milwaukee has to offer.

4. Cafe Hollander

Menu Pick: The Veggie Burger

Cafe Hollander is one of the many Milwaukee restaurants owned by the Lowlands group. This Milwaukee based company prides themselves on their delicious food, array of beer and unique atmosphere. Styled to resemble a Belgian beer bar, Cafe Hollander is filled with European flair.

5. Red Light Ramen

Menu Pick: The Mushroom Miso

While Ardent is a fantastic restaurant on its own, it is the addition of their late night Ramen restaurant that has earned them a spot on my list. Late night ramen is a revolution for many Milwaukee college students, teaching us that late-night food doesn’t have to be from a drive-thru, and that ramen doesn’t have to come from the microwave.

*BONUS: Kopp's Custard

Menu Pick: Always check the famous Flavor Forecast

Okay, Okay. So, does Kopp's truly offer some of Milwaukee's best food....perhaps not. However, it is widely considered a Milwaukee Institution. I will always remember Kopp's as the place where I tried frozen custard for the first time. In exchange for that eye-opening experience, I have awarded them a place in my heart and my article.