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Bartolotta's Lake Park Bistro

<p><strong>What It's Like:</strong> On a bluff high above Lake Michigan, Lake Park Bistro serves sophisticated but unfussy French fare under the guidance of executive chef Adam Siegel, winner of the prestigious 2008 James Beard Award for Best Chef in the <a href="/slideshows/50-reasons-to-love-the-usa-midwest">Midwest</a>. While the elegant back dining room offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, the Bistro's high-energy bar in the middle of the restaurant offers the full menu and lively discussions. The restaurant sits in the Frederick Law Olmsted-designed Lake Park, where summer concerts take place in the evenings. <p><strong>What to Order:</strong> For beautifully executed I-must-be-in-France staples, try the sole </em>meunière poêlée</em> (Dover sole), which is sautéed in brown butter and filleted tableside, or the garlicky escargots appetizer served in puff pastry. But the real draw is the Bistro's sensational three-course Sunday brunch—the best in town. Be sure to start brunch with the excellent champagne-poached oysters.</p> <p><strong>Best Seat in the House:</strong> Tables in the Lake Room offer spectacular views of sapphire Lake Michigan waters.</p> <p><strong>Insider Tip:</strong> Tables with a view are the luck of the draw, but arriving early for dinner or brunch greatly boosts your chances. Ask nicely, and you can substitute a Bloody Mary for the complimentary mimosa at brunch.</p>

AS FEATURED IN...

From Travel + Leisure , JUL 2008

...the elegant back dining room offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan...MORE>>

– 10 Great Waterside Restaurants

From Travel + Leisure , FEB 2004

...where French-trained chef Adam Siegel re-creates classics such as foie gras with apricot preserves and coq au vin...MORE>>

– T+L Reports: Milwaukee's Best

Last updated July 2008