Karl Ratzsch's Restaurant in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Karl Ratzsch's Restaurant has been a downtown Milwaukee landmark since 1904, when chef Otto Hermann opened a caf�. A decade later, Hermann's stepdaughter Helen married Karl Ratzsch. The couple bought the caf�, moved the restaurant to its current location, and a Milwaukee legend was born.

Reflecting Milwaukee's rich German ancestry, the main room displays a sampling of of German artwork, proudly displaying steins, huge cuckoo clocks, porcelain and glass ware, and unique German art.

Our party of nine was nestled into a cozy corner of the restaurant on a quiet Mother's Day afternoon. As always, the service was impeccable, and we were greeted both at the door and by our server. Next to our table was a grand piano, and we were treated to a local pianist's selection of show tunes that pleased both young and old alike.

The food offered at Karl Ratzsch's also reflects Milwaukee's rich German ancestry. The restaurant offers traditional German appetizers, entr�es and dessert, prepared exquisitely and presented tastefully. Appetizers are priced in the $7-$13 range, entrees average approximately $20 each, and desserts are offered for about $5.

The house salad offered a blend of fresh greens, topped with a creamy parmesan house dressing. The salad was crisp and cold, but the dressing was a bit too thick, making it difficult to pour onto the salad. The soups contained potato dumplings that were nestled in a rich, thick broth.

The European sausage sampler was prepared to German perfection. The knackwurst, bratwurst and Hungarian sausage surrounded a tasteful display of whipped potato swabian sauce, spinach and sauerkraut. The side of stone-ground mustard complimented each sausage.