Kilawat

Kilawat Restaurant Review:

Named for its location at Kilbourn Avenue and Water Street, Kilawat arrived when the Wyndham transformed into the InterContinental Milwaukee. The restaurant delivers hipness by way of a translucent, orange hued wine cellar and ultra-mod plum, chocolate-brown, sage and orange-patterned carpeting. Some of the menu is sourced from local farms, so don't be surprised to see organic lettuces or braised short ribs with white-cheddar grits and kale. We like the sole fingers, too, with green herb aïoli and the smoked salmon hash. Lunch feels more casual, with choices that include burgers and panini, but more substantial entrées can be found as well. If you dine during brunch, the malted Belgian waffles are a must. On Friday and Saturday nights, drop by the Chocolate Bar (downstairs, inside the bar) on your way out, where eight kinds of artisan truffles, as well as fondues, cordials, and chocolate-covered bacon with peanut-butter ganache top the all-chocolate menu.