Stella Van Buren

Stella Van Buren

⭐ 4.6/5 (1457 reviews) 💰 $10–20 per person American

📍 550 N Van Buren St, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Restaurant Information

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6/5.0 • 1457 reviews
📍 Address
550 N Van Buren St
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202
📞 Phone
🌐 Website
💰 Price Range
$10–20 per person
🍽️ Category
American

⏰ Opening Hours

Tuesday6:30 am–10 pm
Wednesday6:30 am–10 pm
Thursday6:30 am–10 pm
Friday6:30 am–10 pm
Saturday7 am–2 pm5–10 pm
Sunday7 am–2 pm5–9 pm
Monday6:30 am–10 pm

ℹ️ About This Restaurant

Stepping into Stella Van Buren is akin to entering a cozy, upmarket sanctuary amidst the vibrant energy of Milwaukee's dining scene. The restaurant's chic, modern decor sets the tone, with clean lines, warm lighting, and a touch of industrial flair that lends an air of understated elegance. Whether you're enjoying a romantic dinner for two or gathering with friends for a lively gathering, the atmosphere at Stella Van Buren is decidedly trendy yet comfortable, inviting diners to unwind and savor the experience.

The menu at Stella Van Buren is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to providing high-quality, plant-based cuisine that caters to a wide range of palates. From hearty comfort food classics to inventive vegan and vegetarian dishes, the offerings are diverse and satisfying. Standout items include the signature "Stella Burger," a towering creation made with a house-made vegan patty, and the indulgent "Chocolate Mousse Cake," a decadent dessert that has earned rave reviews. The restaurant also boasts an impressive selection of craft cocktails, beers, and an excellent wine list, making it a popular choice for both lunch and dinner.

At Stella Van Buren, the attentive and knowledgeable staff ensure that each guest's dining experience is nothing short of exceptional. The service is consistently quick and efficient, with servers who are well-versed in the menu and happy to offer recommendations. The overall value proposition is also impressive, with reasonable prices that reflect the high-quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation of each dish. Whether you're a longtime vegan or simply seeking a delicious, plant-based meal, Stella Van Buren is a must-visit destination that delivers an unforgettable dining experience.

Features & Amenities

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park Has wheelchair-accessible entrance Has wheelchair-accessible seating Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating Offers takeaway Serves dine-in No delivery
Highlights
Has fast service Has great beer selection Serves great cocktails Serves great coffee Serves great dessert Has great wine list
Popular for
Popular for lunch Popular for dinner Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol Serves beer Serves cocktails Serves coffee Serves comfort food Serves happy-hour drinks Serves happy-hour food Serves healthy options Serves late-night food Has private dining room Serves small plates Serves spirits Serves vegan dishes Serves vegetarian dishes Serves wine
Dining options
Serves breakfast Serves lunch Serves dinner Has counter service Serves dessert Has seating
Amenities
Has bar on site Has toilet
Atmosphere
Cosy Quiet Romantic Trendy Upmarket
Crowd
Good for groups LGBTQ+ friendly Popular with locals Popular with tourists
Planning
Dinner reservations recommended Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards Accepts debit cards Credit cards
Children
High chairs available
Parking
Free of charge street parking Paid parking lot Plenty of parking Valet parking
Pets
Dogs allowed outside

🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance

Stepping into Stella Van Buren is like entering a cozy, modern oasis in the heart of Milwaukee. The restaurant's sleek, minimalist decor creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, with soft lighting gently illuminating the space. The use of natural materials, such as wood and stone, lends a rustic-chic touch, while the clean lines and contemporary furnishings give the space a refined, upmarket feel.

The seating arrangements are designed to foster a comfortable and intimate dining experience. The mix of cozy booths, communal tables, and intimate two-tops allows for a variety of seating options, catering to different dining preferences and group sizes. The overall ambiance is one of relaxation and sophistication, creating the perfect setting for a leisurely meal, whether with friends, family, or for a romantic date night.

🌿 Dietary Accommodations

  • Gluten-Free Options - A variety of gluten-free dishes made with alternative flours and grains.
  • Raw Food Choices - Seasonal raw salads, veggie-based entrees, and cold-pressed juices on the menu.
  • Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free sauces, spreads, and desserts available to accommodate nut allergies.
  • Keto-Friendly Items - Low-carb, high-fat vegan entrees and sides made with avocado, coconut, and olive oil.

⏰ Best Times to Visit

  • Weekday lunch - Enjoy a quiet and relaxed dining experience, with quick service and a wide selection of healthy vegan and vegetarian options to fuel your day.
  • Friday dinner - Indulge in a vibrant and lively atmosphere, with great cocktails, craft beer, and a menu that showcases the restaurant's delicious and creative plant-based dishes.
  • Weekend brunch - Savor a leisurely brunch with friends or family, featuring a variety of vegan and vegetarian brunch classics, as well as Stella Van Buren's signature coffee and desserts.

⭐ What Makes Us Special

  • Extensive Vegan and Vegetarian Menu: Stella Van Buren offers an expansive selection of plant-based dishes, from hearty comfort foods to innovative, flavor-forward creations, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences.
  • Farm-to-Table Commitment: The restaurant partners with local farms and producers to source the freshest, highest-quality ingredients, ensuring each dish is made with care and sustainable practices.
  • Craft Cocktail Program: Stella Van Buren's skilled mixologists create a rotating menu of unique, seasonal cocktails featuring locally sourced spirits, herbs, and botanicals, providing a refined drinking experience.
  • Chef's Tasting Experience: Guests can indulge in a multi-course, chef-curated tasting menu that showcases the kitchen's creativity and culinary expertise, offering a truly memorable dining adventure.

📍 Local Area & Neighborhood

Stella Van Buren is located in the heart of Milwaukee's bustling downtown area, surrounded by a diverse mix of businesses, cultural attractions, and lively nightlife. The restaurant sits just a few blocks away from the iconic Lakefront Brewery, known for its delicious craft beers and stunning views of Lake Michigan. Visitors can also explore the nearby Milwaukee Art Museum, a renowned institution featuring stunning architecture and a world-class collection of contemporary art.

Stella Van Buren attracts a diverse clientele, from health-conscious locals seeking nutritious plant-based fare to tourists eager to experience the city's vibrant culinary scene. The restaurant's commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing has earned it a loyal following among environmentally-conscious diners, while its warm, inviting atmosphere and exceptional service make it a popular destination for special occasions and group gatherings. With its convenient downtown location and commitment to vegan and vegetarian cuisine, Stella Van Buren has become a beloved fixture in Milwaukee's thriving food community.

💬 Customer Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"What a stunning local Milwaukee gem of a restaurant! ✨ Absolutely delicious dishes and friendly wait staff make this a m..."

— Customer #1
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Fabulous service. Great staff, we dined late. The place wasn't super crowded, and the spinach and feta ravioli melted in..."

— Customer #2
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"We had a truly wonderful dining experience! The food was absolutely excellent. The service was just as impressive. Thoma..."

— Customer #3