Bootleggers is one of Milwaukee’s newest bars, enjoying a recent grand opening on June 6th. This tri-level bar/restaurant has taken over Old World Third Street in a big way and is destined for a huge following, considering its mass appeal. The first level is the restaurant, which also houses a stage for live music. Bootleggers has a full menu including burgers, but the pizza and appetizers, which are available on a three level party tier, will definitely stand out as a favorite. We suggest the Pork Potstickers, the BBQ Grilled Wings and the succulent Thai Beef Tidbits. The Meatlovers pizza lives up to its name — they start with a garlic brushed crust, layer on mozzarella and Parmesan, then load it with bacon, pepperoni and Usinger’s sausage, which is also available on the nachos.

After dinner, move up to the second level, which is a sports bar/cocktail lounge that offers pool tables, the fan favorite Hoop Fever basketball game and the Extreme Hunter video game. The cocktails we sampled were divine. The Bootlegger is the bar’s signature drink and has unisex appeal; it’s made with Makers and Triple Sec so it’s sweet enough for gals with enough kick to satisfy the gents. The mojitos are stellar, especially the Black Cherry, which had perfectly muddled mint leaves and a mouthwateringly subtle black cherry flavor, thanks to the Cruzan Black Cherry Rum.

Finish your evening with a sweetly grapefruit-flavored Ruby Red Martini on Bootlegger’s rooftop deck, which not only has an additional third fully stocked bar, but a 360º view of the city that will make your heart stop. Taking a lady out? Treating her to a decadent meal while looking down on the multi-colored lit Performing Art’s Center over cocktails on a hot summer night definitely means you’re not going home alone.