Sugar Maple

Last night several friends and I drove up to Milwaukee's south side (Bay View actually) to visit the newest beer bar in the area. 'Sugar Maple' is the latest endeavor of Bruno Johnson, owner of the 'Palm Tavern'. We have visited the 'Palm' numerous times over the past several years, so we had some preconceived ideas on what to expect from 'Sugar Maple'.

The first thing I noticed upon entering was the smell of fresh paint. While that normally wouldn't be the best thing for a beer bar, it is to be expected when visiting a place that has been completely remodeled. More importantly, it made it more obvious that 'Sugar Maple' is a non-smoking establishment. Thank you Bruno! 'Sugar Maple' offers the opportunity to enjoy some fantastic craft brewed beers without the overwhelming odor of cigarette smoke.

Heading up to the bar, it is easy to be amazed by the 60 tap handles, each with it own unique character, representing many of the finest mid-west and American microbreweries. Similar to the 'Palm', the bartender quickly handed over a menu, listing the various breweries represented and the specific brews on tap. What a selection, from hoppy IPAs to rich dark Imperial Stouts, from Belgium inspired ales to those brewed with juniper berries, there is most certainly a beer here for everyone.

'Sugar Maple' has a clean, modern feeling. Low coffee tables, surrounded by chairs, lead to the feeling of being in a friends living room rather than a bar. The arrangement provides the opportunity to enjoy conversation enhanced by a great beer. There are no TVs, which are neither needed nor missed.

'Sugar Maple' is located at 441 E. Lincoln Avenue in Bay View. They open at 4pm on Monday - Friday, and at Noon on Saturday and Sunday.