What should I order at Swingin' Door Exchange?
Swingin' Door Exchange
Friday Fish Fry (Lake Perch and Cod)
Frequently mentioned as a highlight, especially the Lake Perch and Cod served with house chips and coleslaw. The cod with potato pancakes and applesauce was also praised for being delicious and true to Milwaukee tradition.
New York Strip Steak
Recommended multiple times for being cooked perfectly to order (medium rare) and served with exceptional sides like brussel sprouts. The steak was described as great and well-prepared.
Brussel Sprouts
Highly praised side dish served with pecans and aioli sauce, described as 'to die for' and worth returning just for them. They complemented main dishes like steak and pork chop excellently.
Big KC Burger (with roast beef, bacon, pepper jack)
Mentioned repeatedly for being a large, well-cooked, and flavorful burger with a unique sloppy roast beef topping. Described as awesome and huge in portion size.
Reuben Sandwich
Called one of the best Reubens ever had, noted for its exceptional taste and quality, making it a standout sandwich option.
Potato Pancakes with Apple Sauce
Mentioned as a killer side dish, especially paired with fish fry. The combination with applesauce was highlighted as a must-try.
Spicy Vermouth Carrots
Received mixed reviews but were notably memorable; some found them charred and flavorful, others desired more spice and sweetness. Still, they are distinctive enough to be recommended by some guests.
Pork Chop with Onions and Mushrooms
Recommended for being perfectly cooked and flavorful, served alongside the highly praised brussel sprouts.
Chili
Mentioned as tasty and having some kick, recommended as a flavorful comfort food option.
Mozzarella Sticks
Described as good and fresh, a solid appetizer choice that complements the main dishes well.
Western Ham Sandwich on Brioche Bun with BBQ Sauce and Bacon
Praised for its homemade BBQ sauce and tasty combination, served with delicious brussel sprouts, making it a recommended sandwich option.
Chicken Avocado Sandwich
Noted as excellent, a good choice for those looking for a flavorful sandwich option.
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11 AM to 2 AM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM to 2 AM |
| Thursday | 11 AM to 2 AM |
| Friday | 11 AM to 2 AM |
| Saturday | 11 AM to 2 AM |
| Sunday | Closed |
About Swingin' Door Exchange
This cozy haunt with old-school, saloon-like decor serves cocktails & American comfort food.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Serves local specialty
- Sports
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Lively
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- High chairs
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid parking garage
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked questions
What is Swingin' Door Exchange known for?
It is best known for its Friday fish fry, especially the Icelandic cod or lake perch with the fixings. Reviewers also repeatedly call out the Brussels sprouts and the old-school bar food, which makes it a go-to for Wisconsin-style comfort food in Milwaukee.
What dishes are most recommended at Swingin' Door Exchange?
The most commonly recommended items are the Friday fish fry, Brussels sprouts, homemade chips with Cajun ranch, and burgers like the KC Burger or big KC burger. Reviewers also mention the Reuben, prime dip, blackened tacos on Taco Tuesday, and the pork chop sandwich as standouts.
What is the atmosphere like at Swingin' Door Exchange?
The vibe is casual, cozy, historic, and lively, with a small footprint, wood-paneled saloon-like decor, and a steady hum of conversation. It suits groups, tourists, and solo diners, and there is bar seating plus table seating and outdoor seating when available.
Is Swingin' Door Exchange good value, and what is the price range?
The price range is $20 to $30, and reviewers often say the portions are generous and the prices are good for both food and drinks. That value shows up in dishes like the three huge blackened tacos, hearty burgers, and fish fry plates that feel filling for the cost.
Do you need a reservation or should you plan ahead for busy times?
Swingin' Door Exchange does not accept reservations, and reviewers say it can get packed at lunch and on weekends. People often recommend arriving early, especially for Friday fish fry or special nights like Taco Tuesday, because waits of 45 minutes to an hour have been reported.
Is parking available at Swingin' Door Exchange?
Yes. Free street parking, Paid parking garage, Paid parking lot, Paid street parking, Usually somewhat difficult to find a space is available.
Does Swingin' Door Exchange have vegetarian options?
Yes, Swingin' Door Exchange offers vegetarian options.
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