★ 2

Went in there really excited but left feeling disappointed. I didn’t think the 7-course surprise menu was exceptional for a few reasons and would probably not revisit.
1. Too many repeating elements in all the savory courses which made the flavor profiles all very similar.
2. Way too much salt on all the savory courses.
3. Desserts were good but very basic (lemon pound cake and 3 short breads).
4. I did not receive a copy of the 7-course surprise menu to take home :(

Pro:
1. Server was attentive.
2. Palate cleanser was the best part!

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★ 5

I have dementia

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★ 5

Expensive but a treat for once a year

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★ 5

If you are looking for a hidden jewel, Sanford's is one to try. Excellent food and service.

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★ 5

We did the 7 course surprise tasting menu and loved it! Some more adventurous dishes for Milwaukee which made it a great experience! Our server was amazing and all the servers were very attentive.

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★ 5

Simply the best dining experience in Milwaukee.

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★ 5

Special restaurant for special occasions. Food and service were equally wonderful!

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★ 5

Always exceptional food and drink! Such a wonderful evening!

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★ 5

Elegant interior and a calm dining experience.

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★ 5

This was such a wonderful experience. Kelly and Shauna were very informative about the history and each of the courses. The Elk was amazing and done to perfection. The Halibut was also done to perfection. Each course brought a plethora of flavorsand so enjoyable. The desserts were out of this world. I would definitely go back and highly recommend.

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★ 5

Can not say enough on how much we enjoyed this evening. From the valet to the cocktails to the 7 course chefs dinner. Will for sure go back.

I believe Kelly was out server. Very knowledgeable and efficient. The whole team explained everything perfectly.

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★ 5

I loved dining at Sanford. The food was amazing! Ambiance was warm and welcoming. Staff were friendly. Restaurant is small and quaint. Prepare to sit and enjoy.

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★ 5

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★ 3

Great food presentation, service, and atmosphere during dining. However, I did have a bad very mild food poisoning episode the next two days.

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★ 5

Second time at Sanford tonight to celebrate our anniversary (a little late). Just like last time, the food was amazing and the staff was very friendly, and the staff was wonderful.

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★ 5

Wow!

This is a unique dining experience. We chose the 7 course tasting menu. You sit down and they just start bringing you awesome food. You have no idea I'm what is coming and no need to make any decisions.

Of my 7 courses - 6 were incredible. The one potential issue is all night you are comparing to the previous courses.

The service topped my high expectations. The staff was incredible.

I should note, I went for a special occasion and they were very helpful.

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★ 3

Sanford recently hosted a special summer dining event: a 5-course tasting menu accompanied by curated wine pairings from a local sommelier. On paper, the evening promised a fine-dining experience approaching the caliber—and cost—of a one-star Michelin meal. At nearly $250 per person, expectations were understandably high.

To their credit, the service was warm, attentive, and professional throughout the evening. The wine pairings were thoughtful and in some cases exceptional, offering bright, surprising notes that complemented the pacing of the courses. Unfortunately, the food itself didn’t quite rise to meet the occasion.

Each dish arrived composed and presented with the finesse of a high-end kitchen. Ingredients were clearly chosen with care, and the techniques employed aimed squarely at sophistication. But across the board, flavors landed muted or muddled. The dishes felt like they were checking all the right boxes—visually impressive, ingredient-forward, technically plated—but lacked an execution that typically brings contrast and juxtaposition to the palette. The sauces specifically tasted oddly too similar despite being wildly different on paper– it honestly made me think that they were all prepared in the same pot/pan or something. Also, the interior feels a bit dated. They could use some new furnishings or just a slightly elevated space or seating arrangement.

In short, it was a meal that looked the part, but didn’t quite earn the price tag. Sanford is clearly capable of excellence, but this particular night fell short of its ambition.

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★ 5

My experience at Sanford can be described with nothing but superlatives. The food was amazing, the service was amazing, the valet service was amazing, you get the idea. This place was the perfect spot to celebrate 10 years of marriage with my wife. I cannot recommend the restaurant enough.

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★ 5

White table cloth dining experience in a comfortable older building. We enjoyed the chef's surprise tasting menu and wine pairings—some very surprising wines and every dish was delicious and offered intriguing flavors and textures. It really was a delightful evening without a single misstep from the chef or the staff. One of the best things about Sanford is that they are a real throwback to a time when you didn't have to guarantee your reservation with a card, didn't have to get out for the next table, didn't have to venmo money to a friend because the restaurant wouldn't split the check or whatever. This felt easy and relaxing and fun—like a restaurant should be.

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★ 5

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★ 5

My husband and I went to Sanford for our anniversary dinner. Bottom line up front, it was one of the best meals I've ever had.

Sanford is fine dining food with a homey atmosphere. The food is presented artfully, and with each bite you feel like you're getting a hug from a family member. Each dish in our four course dinner was strategically structured with flavors that all married well.

My husband ordered the Wellerman cocktail which he said was one of the best cocktails he's ever had. It had flavor notes that reminded me of a smokey barbecue. I had the wine pairing with each of my courses and they were perfectly paired. My first course, the smoked salmon, came with a sparkling white wine; the second course, the quail, came with a smooth pinot noir; and my meal, the elk loin, came with a velvety Malbec.

The meal started with a bright-flavored amuse bouche, and the meal ended with several small cookies. The staff was very responsive, friendly, and informative.

Thanks so much for the great meal!

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★ 5

Delicious food and the best service at any restaurant I've ever been to. They use so many different Cooking techniques. They use a lot of pickled stuff too.

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★ 5

Update from December 2024 visit: Management contacted us shortly after our negative experience and offered us a gift certificate to try again. We did not expect this but appreciated it and made it back in December 2024. We had a much more positive experience with more friendly service. Given the high quality of this establishment, there is still room for improvement with the cocktail making and general knowledge of food intolerances/allergies, but overall, we were significantly more satisfied with this visit.

Original from December 2023 visit (3 stars): We were beyond excited to visit this place again. Even just making the reservation, they are welcoming and accommodating of food allergies.

After arriving, our server was friendly at the start and gave us some time to settle in, but that turned into nearly 45 minutes before we got our drinks - Manhattans, which we consider a classic cocktail, but they were made incorrectly the first time. We then had to wait for them to be remade, and they still came out wrong, but we just let it go this time around.

The food finally started to arrive - we chose the four-course tasting menu. We got our first dish after about an hour and a half. The food was very good, and they accommodated our allergies, but no one explained the meals to us. They would just set the dishes down and walk away, and our server hardly stopped by to check in. At one point, we were without water for about 10 minutes until we could finally request a refill from someone. For a place with such unique and high-end fair, we expected an overview of the dishes we ordered and more touch points.

We knew this was meant to be a slow dining experience, but our entire meal took about three hours, which is what they tell you to plan for the seven courses, and we only had four. Since we were nearing closing time, everyone was cleaning up around us. Our server seemed more concerned about replacing the tablecloths than checking in with us. This night was meant to be a treat, but it turned out to be an incredibly expensive disappointing experience.

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★ 5

Food was amazing and service was even better. Best place I have ever been to!

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★ 5

This 7 course tasting and wine pairing was an experience I won't forget soon. I tasted things I wouldn't have ordered, and that culinary bravery was repaid with absolutely delicious food. I wish it was a full 3 hr experience, and that I could have given an example of what I would have picked from the 4 course dinner as a 7 course experience but I'd do it again tomorrow anyway.

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★ 5

Simply, the very best dinner we have ever had. While visiting Milwaukee, Sanford Restaurant was recommended. Every course of our dinner was spectacular! The food, presentation, service and ambiance are beyond comparison. Truly deserving of a Michelin star.

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★ 5

For the love of Pete this meal was amazing!!!
Celebrated our anniversary and chose Sanford based on the reviews.
Carrie was our server and she was nothing short of amazing!!
Explained the menu and answered our questions.
We chose the 7 course surprise dinner.
Most of the time we sat in silence just trying to figure out what just happened to our taste buds!
Absolutely delicious every single plate.
A meal like this in Chicago would have been three times as much.
We were the last ones in the restaurant and had the honor of meeting the Chef and seeing the kitchen!
The entire experience from start to finish is one we will remember for ever.
Thank you xoxo

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★ 5

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★ 5

I’ll only say one thing. Get the tenderloin.

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★ 3

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★ 5

My partner and I visited for the Valentine’s Day weekend and we really enjoyed our visit. This was a perfect experience for the both of us. The best service I’ve had at a restaurant. The second anything was needed the staff was available and happy to help. The food was fantastic, the stuffed venison I had was delicious and my partners steak was one of the best I’ve ever had. You definitely get what you pay for. The drinks were good as well and the servers are very flexible when it comes to wine pairings. I can’t recommend this experience more.

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★ 5

Had a great experience here! Loved ordering the full 4 courses. The timing of each course was perfect as were the portion sizes. Our server was excellent as well completing a lovely date night for my wife and I.

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

The dining experience at Sanford is always outstanding. The courses are unique, tastebud-teasing and as local as they can get. The staff is kind, thoughtful, attentive and thorough. Plus, the space is intimate and comfortable. It's a long-standing, timeless restaurant that we'll continue to visit as long as they'll have us.

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★ 5

Sanford was just incredible. We got to meet the chef Justin and learn a little bit about the history behind the food we were eating, and it made the experience that much more personal. We had the seven course surprise tasting menu, and boy were we surprised! It was absolutely phenomenal, and easily enjoyable for all sorts of tastes. They also gave us an extra course of a special seasonal cheese and jam! This overall was an 11/10 as far as restaurants go, and I would highly recommend this to anybody!

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★ 5

Went for the 7 course tasting menu, had amazing service and the food is phenomenal! Really blown away! Definitely felt like I got my moneys worth! Would definitely recommend! Great atmosphere and acoustics! Super friendly and helpful staff! Fun experience!

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★ 5

We had a wonderful experience. The food was very well explained for us that are not foodies. With each bite we had a whole new experience with food. We will definitely be back.

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

My new favorite downtown restaurant. Lovely dinner service, especially by Sara who didn’t deter from our awful jokes. The food was simply therapeutic.

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★ 5

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★ 5

My parents had dinner last night celebrating their 38th wedding anniversary, my bestie, Sarah, served them which added to their amazing experience. I just wanted to thank you for giving them such a nice night out. My dad has strong opinions and isn’t one to boast about food much, but he told me that last night was the best meal he’s ever had. They’re not the type to write reviews so I had to share! Thanks for making it special.

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★ 5

I ate here tonight for my b-day. I drive down from Oshkosh to experience this place. From the service to the food, it was spectacular!! And Kelly the server was incredible!

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★ 5

Outstanding restaurant - we haven't been here in years and I hoped it was ans good ans it had been in the past. Well Sanford did not disappoint - every detail, every bite was special and delicious! The service is was warm, professional and attentive. I highly recommend Sanford, especially for a special occasion. We look forward to returning.

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★ 5

Perfect Dinner nice pace on the 4 course dinners. Thank You

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★ 5

We got the 7 course chef's menu with wine pairings so we had no idea what we were getting, and we were absolutely blown away. My wife is gluten free and they were able to accommodate with the 7 course menu which we are very thankful for. I'm so embarrassed that I can't remember the server's name because she was fantastic and spoke to us about each course and the wine she chose to go with it, and each course got better and better. Awesome teamwork from FOH staff, the man who took us to our table was helping drop our food and wine, there was another server in addition to ours also taking our plates and replacing our silverware. Top class operation of fine dining expertise!

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★ 5

Called in to schedule a reservation for the 7 course menu with wine pairing. Was told that it was not available on the day we requested. No problem. But then the person on the phone said that they could make an exception with us being calling ahead and being cordial upon receiving the news. This wasn't requested or expected, but I was still very excited to hear it. We were even asked ahead of time about any substitution requests, which I'd never expect from a tasting menu.

Every course was delicious, presented well, and when we left, we did so full. Which was my biggest worry beforehand.

I would certainly recommend to anyone considering trying it, to do it.

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★ 5

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★ 5

Amazing intimate space. Great value despite being on the pricier side of things. Every bite is delicious and expertly paired with great wine.

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★ 4

Fantastic food and service. Atmosphere feels like a pretentious nursing home.

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★ 5

Nice people, good food. Only comment is for the price, the surprise tasting menu was a bit one-note. Will be back in a few months to try more flavors :)

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

I was hesitant at first due to the price, but I have to say this place was amazing! The service, the food, the experience, everything was perfect. It gives off very European vibes in the way the staff space everything out, you’ll never feel rushed, but yet somehow remain attentive also. Expect to spend a couple hours here, but while enjoying some of the best food in the city. On the food side, you will not be left hungry or disappointed, every dish was amazing, although the standouts for us was the tenderloin and the banana butterscotch tart. On each plate everything they put on that plate had a purpose, either to add a color, a crunch, or an amazing flavor. I could go on and on, but end of the story is even though the price is high, Sanford delivers and even exceeds your expectations. I would highly recommend for any special date night, work dinners, or any special occasion!

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★ 5

We had the time of our lives. To say the food was superb doesn't even touch this dining experience. A true culinary delight with the service and atmosphere to match! A bucket list experience we'll remember forever! Thank you!!

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★ 5

Best restaurant in Milwaukee for good reason. Get the surprise tasting menu, every dish is so unique but can be enjoyed by nearly anyone. Extremely friendly and knowledgeable staff in an understated setting. Will be back.

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★ 5

Had the seven course surprise tasting menu with wine pairing. Best food I’ve ever had! Will definitely return!

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★ 5

Amazing 3 hours experience. We did the 4 course menu since we went during the weekend. But definitely will be back to try the 7 course surprise tasting. Exceptional foods and service!

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★ 5

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★ 5

Amazing food. My server paired wine with each course to perfectly complement my choices. Chef Justin’s passion for seasonal local food is evident in every course and it was a joy to speak with him. Highly recommended dining at Sanford.

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★ 5

Really unique dining experience. Menu is carefully thought out with offerings that are created based on fresh and available locally sourced ingredients.

The waitstaff was very attentive, but more importantly very knowledgeable about each dish. I would highly recommend asking them to make a wine recommendation for each course. They nailed this.

The meals are creatively plated to showcase the items as they prepared individually, but when you combine the items on the plate it adds an even deeper flavor experience.

We took an Uber over as there was limited parking, but we actually walked back to central downtown.

Highly recommended experience.

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★ 5

It was a lovely evening of wonderful food!

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

The food was fantastic. So many flavors. Highly recommend.

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★ 5

Exceptional food. Great atmosphere. Excellent service.

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★ 3

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★ 5

Delicious food. Flavors and textures delight the senses. Wonderful presentation and service.

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★ 5

Can't rave enough about this place! So much balanced flavor in every bite. I usually hate gamey grocery store pork, but the stuffed pork shoulder is perfect. Service is always impeccable. The plum tart was beautiful in flavor and appearance. Sorry, didn't take a pic of the seared tuna and beef basturma appetizers, but they were amazing as well. Can't wait to come back!
*May 2024 - you guys still bring it! So many places have slipped. Hope to celebrate a milestone bday with you this year. <3

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★ 5

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★ 4

Relaxing enjoyable meal. More details to follow..

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Outstanding! Great food and service.

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★ 5

It was best restaurant that I’ve been to in Milwaukee

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★ 5

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★ 5

Excellent food. I would have appreciated a more energetic server. However she was very polite.

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★ 5

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★ 5

Amazing first meal at Sanford, but it will not be the last. Every bite of every dish was superb! Our server Carrie was extremely knowledgeable, informative, and a delight!!

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★ 5

Full fine dining experience, minus pretentiousness. Our service was incredible and made us feel like we'd been regular patrons for years. We went on a Saturday, so we only had the option of 4 course menu (7 is reserved for weeknights, we'll definitely be back). Not only was our food and service outstanding, but the wine pairings really took this experience over the top(I believe the wine person was Jeffrey, my hearing isn't so great) if you enjoy dining, and live in Milwaukee, don't wait as long as we did to visit, it's worth experiencing!(The photo I posted was when I was nearly finished, the presentation before I messed it up was beautiful)

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★ 1

I don’t understand all the positive reviews. We went to Sanford for the first time to celebrate our engagement, and each and every one of the 4 meal courses was so bad as to be inedible. Even the desserts. Anything served as a tart was so overdone they were inedible. It seems as though this restaurant is living on a reputation that is unearned. The kitchen clearly did care what they were serving. On the bright side, we didn’t order 5 courses. Just an awful experience, and a whole lot of money wasted.

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★ 5

Wonderful experience. Expensive but a wonderful and decadent treat!! We will definitely be back

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★ 2

Visited for Valentine’s Day - did the 4 course meal but did not receive our entree until 2 HOURS AFTER being seated. I understand that it was a busy day and the staff was very friendly, but in my opinion for a restaurant of this caliber, this is unacceptable. For the price of the food you can find way better, elsewhere.

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★ 5

Wonderful food Cozy atmosphere, very good for romantic evenings. The wife and I will definitely be going here again.

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★ 5

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★ 4

We had the 7 course surprise menu with wine pairings. The food and presentation were very good. The dishes were quite healthy, yet tasty. We enjoyed the duck and cheese dishes the best. The desert dish, while good, was not as good as I wished. This is part of the gamble with the surprise menu. We went to Alinea in Chicago last year around the same time. Not a fair comparison, but Sanford could make a couple adjustments based on what Alinea did. The last dish as Alinea was outstanding. That is the last impression best left for your customers. They also gave you a menu at the end saying what you had been given. That is a nice touch. Also in the wine pairings process the wine was poured at the table and you could examine the bottle and take a pic in case it was something you wanted to buy in the future. In my opinion, you should always be given the opportunity to taste test the wine before it is fully poured. It’s good etiquette. The introduction of the dishes and wine is an important part of the experience. Our server was very quiet and it was difficult to pick up on everything she said. I would go again. These are some easy adjustments that would better the experience.

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★ 5

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★ 5

The best restaurant in the City of Milwaukee. Hands down. Spectacular!

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★ 5

My favorite. Outstanding food, service and atmosphere. There is no place that compares to Sanford.

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★ 5

Omylort was this good.

We chose the 7 course tasting with pairing and could not have been more pleased.

Of all the dishes the scallop was probably my favorite for one simple reason... I liked it. Normally I will not eat scallops because the texture or flavor or both are a turn off, but not with these. These had enough firmness to not be jell-o-ie, yet still weren't tough. They didn't have a 'dirty' flavor that I often experience, but had a very nice caramel crisp from being seared. Talking to our waiter, it turns out they get them "dry packed" and that maintains the freshness as though straight off the boat.

Whatever the reason, WOW.

Now for what was my real favorite turned out to be the goose sausage and duck, although personal preference is that the duck be just slightly more cooked, that did not take away from the dish.

Every bit of love a chef could put into their profession went into this meal. Were it proper to give a huge to the person that pleased the tastes this well, I'd go back just to give a firm embrace of thanks.

Amazing, thank you.

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★ 4

Of the four courses, we had a few lackluster choices across our group. For myself, I found the prosciutto salad to be lacking when it came to the dressing and the salad was hard to politely cut. The fennel tenderloin, while seasoned wonderfully, came out mostly "blue rare" much to my surprise. The house manager agreed that it was incredibly underdone and immediately had it remade, and unfortunately another small piece still had this problem. I wish the tenderloin had an extra piece overall. My wife found the first course tart to be a bit more over caramelized for her preference and found the duck to be underwhelming.

The staff was incredibly kind and welcoming overall and the atmosphere is wonderful for the setting. The cocktails are creative and the "Gata" Armenian dessert was absolutely incredible.

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★ 5

Went to NYE, our server took great care of us and the food was incredible. The scallops were the best part

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★ 5

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★ 5

Always an exceptional experience! Unbelievably great food and outstanding, personable service.

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★ 5

Great experience! We ordered the 7 course chef choice, it was amazing with great wine pairings.

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★ 5

Always delicious food. Always fabulous service.

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★ 5

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★ 5

Walking into this cozy restaurant made me feel like in a culinary movie, so surreal. This is my first time here and the whole experience was like a dream. Every dish we had was absolutely delicious and service was outstanding. This is the place you definitely want to go to create a memorable experience!

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★ 5

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★ 4

The only complaint was that the 2 seating times weren’t working well. Our 7:45 reservation was over 30” late. Maybe either start earlier for first setting or later for second setting. Otherwise service was excellent!

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★ 5

Justin and his team prove why this is the ultimate dining experience in Milwaukee. Extraordinary service, food and ambiance.

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★ 5

What can I really say that hasn't already been said? Outstanding dishes and service and an overall wonderful fine dining experience. The menu is ever-changing, but some highlights from my visit to Sanford were the watercress gnocchi, the seared scallops, and the butterscotch toffee tart (one of the best desserts I've ever had). Before dining here, I read a few reviews and the most recent review stated that this restaurant seemed pretentious. I can't say I agree. Sanford isn't putting on an air to pretend it's something it isn't - it's genuinely a top notch restaurant where clearly each dish and the overall experience is created with thoughtfulness and intention. All staff members we interacted with were friendly, approachable, and happy to answer any questions.

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★ 3

A bit pretentious and somewhat like the Clark bar in the swimming pool atmosphere, Sanford was overstaffed and underwhelming. Dishes were picture perfect and a bit disappointing however haute cuisine isn’t always about taste and portion size, moreover it’s more artistic and bias toward pleasing the eye than the taste buds. Best dish: Scallops were far the best dish. Small but very delicious. Most disappointing: macadamia nut tart. Dough was gooey and the nuts were a challenge to eat. Crushed or chopped nuts should have been used. Service was good. I was the only diner for my entire meal in the restaurant until one more couple joined 3/4 through my meal. Wines were decent, about what I expected coming from Seattle restaurant scene. Milwaukee certainly has better pricing than the PNW. Over all *** is fair. Food was a bit dated for Innovation and creativity, service was satisfactory. Would be a nice place to stop by for a drink and Hors d’oeuvres outside in a summers evening if they offered a more relaxed fair.

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★ 5

We chose this restaurant for what we heard was great food, did not expect the complete 5* level of service. Start to finish this was a great dining experience. We had 3 people in our group and each got something different at each course so we could try a little of everything. Portions were perfect and every detail thoughtful. Would go here again for sure

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★ 5

Best 5 Course Meal in Milwaukee

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★ 5

5 star through and through. Consistently excellent.

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★ 5

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★ 5

The best restaurant in town, and my personal favorite, Sanford is easily on par with Michelin starred restaurants I've been lucky enough to experience during my foreign and domestic travels. I highly recommend the surprise tasting menu.

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★ 5

Went for special occasion dinner. Spectacular food, great staff, couldn't get better

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★ 5

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★ 5

We did the surprise tasting menu and it was excellent. The dishes were unique and full of flavor. The proteins were cooked to perfection. The scallop was awesome it melted in your mouth and the braised pistachios it came with were really interesting. I thought the portions were great and myself and the other guests in my party were very full at the end of dinner. Beverage pairing was really nice too. Service was excellent.

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★ 5

Great place to enjoy a special occasion with loved ones.

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★ 5

Dining at Sanford is truly a memorable experience. The staff makes provides individualized attention making you feel like the only table at the restaurant. The food is exceptionally crafter by an award winning chef and beautifully presented. Try the Scallops and wine pairing with your meal!

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★ 5

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★ 5

Amazing 4 course dinner with impecable service.

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★ 5

We had a lovely time celebrating our anniversary at Sanford. We enjoy the 7 course tasting menu (shh... It's a surprise!). Our waitstaff did a fantastic job explaining what the food was, how it was prepped, and where it came from, which made the experience that much more interesting.

Since there are seven courses, portion sizes are pretty small, but there was plenty of food and we definitely left full. We will be back!

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★ 5

I have been wanting to try this place for a while...it finally happened! We celebrated our Anniversary last month and Sanford did not disappoint. We had an earlier reservation on a Tuesday.

We each did the 7 course surprise tasting menu with the wine add on... everything was perfectly presented and prepared. The pairings went together nicely and the presentation made you want to savor each bite.

The experience easily took 3 hours... we had the best of the best serving us. Great conversation, funny and very knowledgeable about what was being presented to us. Corrie Lynn really did a great job. We ended up staying until the close and Corrie Lynn and Carrie were so fantastic. I also got to meet some of the people in the kitchen that prepared our beautiful dishes. I am thrilled that I got to finally try this place and will definitely return!

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★ 5

Small, intimate restaurant that is focused on quality service and an exquisite tasting menu. We did the 4 course menu because we could choose each course rather than the surprise 7 course tasting menu. It's expensive but totally worth the money to experience the unique blends of seasonal food.

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★ 5

We did the surprise tasting menu, and it was genuinely the best dinner of my life. I was impressed, not only by the incredible food, but by the thoughtful service provided by the staff. We will definitely be back.

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★ 5

I can't describe what a wonderful experience this place was. The food was out of this world. The service, impeccable. I've paid much more for much less. I will be going back again and again!

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★ 5

This was so worth it! When you book at restaurants like these, it's often a question of whether it will live up to the hype. I can assure you, Sanford went above and beyond. From the service (shout out, Ralph!!) to the food, to the exceptional wine pairings that Ralph created for us, it was a lovely experience. Know that it's expensive. But you get more than a good dinner - it's an entire experience, curated by the excellent staff at Sanford. We had some of the best dishes (even ordered seconds of several) any of us had ever had. This is most certainly a special-occasion/celebratory kind of place, but also just a great place if you're feeling splurgy for some fantastic food. Presentation was top-notch, also. If I'm ever in town again, this will be on my list.

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★ 5

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★ 5

The staff at Sanford provided one of the best dining experiences I have ever had. From the warm welcome by the valet to the chocolates at the end of the meal, everything was fabulous! Four of us went to dinner and we all ordered differently so we could try different dishes. Needless to say, we were all happy with our decisions and only shared a little because it was all so good.
I can't imagine anything on the menu is less than stellar... even the dishes I tried that I would have passed on because of an ingredient... were delicious!
If you can, make it a point to visit Sanford, it'll be an experience you'll never forget.

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★ 1

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★ 5

Everything was great. I would recommend that you try the 7 course.

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★ 5

Grand. Dine in.

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★ 5

Always love my time at sanford. Service top notch! Food always unique!

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★ 5

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★ 5

Our son and daughter in law took us to Sanford for our 40th anniversary. Start to finish, our server made us feel like we were the absolute center of her attention. Great food, great service, great experience!

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★ 5

So outclasses any other restaurant in Milwaukee without being elitist. Friendly , knowledgeable staff, elegant atmosphere, delicious, delicious food!

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★ 5

Fine dining. We were celebrating our anniversary and experienced the 7 course meal with wine pairings. It was fantastic.

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★ 5

Had a genuinely great experience

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★ 5

Incredible service, incredible food. One of the best dining experiences I’ve had in Milwaukee, maybe ever. The whole experience begins the instant you walk through the door—there’s someone there to hold it for you, and then the host offers to hang up your coats. As soon as we sat down, the server gave us a full explanation of the menu, as well as provided a detailed description on what I could order given my dietary restrictions. They even ended up making a couple of custom dishes for me, given that one of the plates I ordered actually was prepared with butter (lactose sensitivity). There wasn’t a single sour note of the evening—all four courses were absolutely delicious. Can’t recommend highly enough! It’s on the pricier end, but worth every penny. I would have happily paid more, honestly, given the quality of food and service.

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★ 5

Close to best food I’ve ever had and without a doubt the best service I’ve ever experienced.

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★ 5

Milwaukee's premier restaurant.

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★ 5

The food was absolutely delectable. The building itself is quite cozy with a relaxing atmosphere. It is a fine dining hidden gem, I would highly recommend.

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★ 5

We had an amazing anniversary dinner. The courses were well timed and the wine was delicious! We are already planning a trip back soon to try the 7 course meal!

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★ 4

Food and service were outstanding. We had the chefs tasting menu. Service was as good as I've had anywhere. The building is a bit dated, feels like late 80's really 90's. Be prepared for a large bill.

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★ 5

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★ 5

Amazing food. Probably one of the best restaurants in Milwaukee. You don't need to drive down to Chicago to experience a high end restaurant. Sanford is definitely worth visiting at least once! I don't have the same palate as my husband, who definitely got more out of the experience than I did. I still appreciate finer foods & would recommend to those who do too!

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★ 3

First time dining here with my wife for Valentine's day. We've dined at a 3 and 2 michelin star restaurant before so first perception seems like a fine dining experience. Menu was a fixed 4 course meal for 95 a person, excluding tips and drinks. Great ambience and service. Some part of the food was cooked incorrectly - burnt and seasoning was not blended well. Some plates were overwhelming with one flavor - too salty, bitter, or sour. The food was not worth the price. I only gave it 3 stars because of the service.

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★ 5

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★ 5

Have Carrie pick your meal and wines for you. She has the best pallette.

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Excellent all the way around!

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★ 5

This was our first visit to Sanford. Started out with an incredible champagne followed by an appetizer (goat meat ball), then pumpkin soup which was really nice. My main dish was Elk, my first time trying Elk which was good along with a glass of Rose` Dessert was by far the most amazing thing ever. I had the Banana Butterscotch Toffee Tart, Banana Rum Ice Cream. Definitely would go back. I do wish there was a chicken option, even some sort of upscale version.

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★ 5

Fantastic! This place is a bit pricy but worth every dime. The Chef put together a unique combination of tastes that really worked. I wouldn't have missed it!

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★ 1

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★ 5

Top to bottom an outstanding experience. The 7-course with wine pairing did not disappoint!

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★ 5

Wow, what an experience! Fantastic service, and the food was amazing. This was fine dining at its best. We were visiting from out of town, and would absolutely recommend Sanford to any of our friends traveling to Milwaukee and looking for a special occasion dinner.

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★ 5

A beautiful setting and ambiance. The staff is very attentive, friendly and the food is great! It’s everything you would expect from a chef/restaurant who year after year receives awards and accolades for the quality of their food and their exquisite service/establishment. I highly recommend and will most definitely go back.

Source: Google

★ 5

Top of the top in the Milwaukee area. Service doesn't miss a beat. The food is extraordinary. You definitely get what you pay for at this establishment.

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★ 5

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★ 5

Gorgeous décor, excellent service, absolutely wonderful, creative food. Loved the fact it’s intimate, quiet and beautiful. Food was really creative and delicious. Normally don’t like tasting menus as too much food, but this one was just perfect. A must if you’re in Milwaukee.

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★ 3

Wine pairing was excellent. Food was good, but not great. The courses were a tad unrefined and heavy. The service was exceptionally slow… upon arrival we were left to sit for nearly 10 mins. Then when we got to our table no one asked us if we wanted to order a drink. After 40 mins we were eventually provided with menus. Meh.

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★ 5

What a five-star experience from start to finish! Everything was stellar including delectable cuisine; professional and personable service (server Carrie - amazing); wonderful intimate ambience; and very clean, something we value. My husband and I can't wait to go back for another special occasion. We think it's the best tasting menu experience we have had.

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★ 4

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★ 5

Hands down, the best tasting menu in Milwaukee. We spent three fantastic hours here enjoying every single bite and sip of the 7 course chefs surprise tasting menu with wine pairings. Come hungry! I am so grateful that when I asked for a modified vegetarian option I never once felt like the flavors or ingredients were compromised. Spectacular and we can't wait to go back!!

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★ 5

We always live Sanford. The menu has changed a bit since COVID. The 4 course menu is perfect. The serving sizes are more than ample. And The food is ALWAYS the beat as you would expect.

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★ 5

Wow! First time dining here and it was perfect for my sweethearts birthday dinner. The service was exceptional, the food was amazing and the specialty drinks unique and delicious. They do have a larger selection of wine and drinks. I highly recommend this experience. Be willing and able to pay for that experience. It's worth every dollar and I can't wait to go again.

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★ 5

The best, fancy restaurant in Milwaukee. Rest assured, though, that they are worth every single last cent.
It was our first time and we did the 7 course chef's choice. Do yourself a favor and try it during your first visit.

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★ 5

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★ 4

Food and service was really well done!!! Overall, a really nice culinary experience!

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★ 5

Unbelievable food. Truly a amazing dining experience.

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★ 5

Absolutely incredible. On par with the best Michelins of Chicago. Great portion sizes and options within their pre-fixe menu. Offer 3oz and 6oz wine portions that they’ll pair with any course you’ll like. $300 dinner for two with wine pairing and tip. Perfect service. Worth a trip.

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★ 5

Best restaurant in Milwaukee. Been there 3 times for the 7 course chef's choice with wine paring and everything I've had has been absolutely spectacular. Service is second to none. You definitely get what you pay for with Sanford's. If you have a special event or just looking for a gourmet meal, you can't go wrong with Sanford's!

Source: Google

★ 5

Nothing short of incredible. Sanford is a special and unique place; it is quaint. The food was absolutely superb and the service impeccable. My husband and I live in Los Angeles, and have had the privilege of dining in many fine restaurants there, however, Sanford surpasses any Los Angeles restaurant we have dined in, hands down. Sanford has become our favorite restaurant, and we plan on patronizing it every time we are back in Milwaukee, which is often.

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★ 1

Overpriced and overrated. Food is mediocre and you will leave hungry. Go here if you want to waste your money 💰

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★ 5

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★ 3

Came into Sanford with an open mind, hearing many great things about the place. We were a party of 4 and many of us have done a variety of fine dining in the city. Service was well done. Kind, polite, and attentive. We ordered the house cocktails -- which were nothing to call home about. Our server took our wine glasses away despite us mentioning we wanted wine for dinner. We were never asked about additional drinks or wine during the rest of our dinner which has never happened to us before.

The food was good, well presented and a nice mix of flavors. We didn't feel the quality or presenting was worth $100 per person for 4 courses, there are plenty of other fine dining meals that are far better in the city. We had an 8p reservation, and despite a weekday reservation and not a full restaurant, we ordered two separate dishes only to be told they had run out of that dish after the fact. Basically every single dessert was a tart, which was a little strange. Overall we left feeling disappointed...

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★ 5

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★ 5

Sanford. We haven't been here in almost 10 years. It was one of the those experiences (the first time around) that helped to start our glorious foodie adventures. We were in over our head and out of our league with "courses" and fine dining, but that first time at Sanford made us want to explore more. Now, ten years later and under new ownership (Sandy D'Amato sold the restaurant to his Chef de Cuisine Justin Aprahamian) continue a lot of the traditions and accolades the former owner and head chef recieved. This is an elegant restaurant with small plates of food served in four courses or a seven course "surprise" dinner cooked up and changed daily by the Sanford staff. If your dining here, then you already know it's pricey... go all in and get the seven courses! Let Chef Aprahamian and his team prepare some special delights! I promise you, it will be worth the price, if you are at all a foodie! We liked every course, from the amuse-buche with yogurt, beet and bee pollen to the duck with buckwheat toast and hazelnut sorbet! I enjoyed the service immensely! They were attentive, kind and courteous at all times. My only wish, and this is minor, is that we could have received better explanations of the food from our server. She may have been newer and slightly inexperienced and perhaps forgot some things that were in dishes. Overall, ten years later and we still enjoyed it!

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★ 5

Wonderful staff, and the food is a work of art.

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★ 5

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★ 5

Simply... WOW!

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★ 5

Perfection! Exquisite flavor profiles in an elegant yet relaxed environment. Conversation with staff is part of the experience. Pure delight!

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★ 1

Horribly inaccessible pricing and menu for people with restrictions. Will not be considering Sanford again for an accessible dining experience.

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★ 3

Good food at a high price. I enjoyed the food, staff was friendly. Yet there are other excellent restaurants in town for a much better price.

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★ 5

Great service, great food, decent ambience. What's not to like.

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★ 5

Kira was a fantastic server explained the menu to us. The food was superb and interesting.

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★ 5

Excellent. Perfect dining experience.

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★ 5

Really the best fine dining in Milwaukee.

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★ 5

7 course tasting menu is always unique and delicious

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★ 5

Absolutely the best restaurant in Milwaukee! Great food, service, and ambiance. Special shout out to our waiter, Darus, who made this a fantastic experience!

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★ 5

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★ 3

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Fun experience, highly recommend the chefs menu! The subtle and exceptionally executed individual elements married on each dish to a beautifully complex gestalten effect.

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★ 5

It'll blow your mind! Great creative cuisine! Not your regular steak and pasta but really well done multi flavored dishes. Well defined and bold. Just loved it!

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★ 5

Unbelievable experience. Met the chef on accident walking in from the grocery store from buying bananas. Just was great. The back story to the whole place and even the new chef from the old chef. I felt fine dinned and pampered. I came in from work. They made me feel right at home. Definitely a fancy place, no matter what your dressed in they will treat you like royalty.

One of my favorite dining experiences to date. Wish my date wasn’t home in daytona. A must try but know it’s 4 courses and $100 a person. Minimum before you walk in the door. Worth it.

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★ 4

We celebrated my girlfriends birthday at the Sanford. First time visit for me, repeat for her. We did the 7 course tasting menu which actually left us quite full & happy by the end of the night! 5 stars for the food and wine pairings. The 1313 Cava we started out with was excellent. Having lived in big cities for many years, I was happy to find this restaurant in Milwaukee. We had to subtract a star when our bill came - charged with two wine pairings when we had only ordered one. This was quickly corrected, but I had to look carefully at the bill and ask our server. Subtracted a second star when our check was brought out without a cake/desert or happy birthday being mentioned at any time. I had confirmed we were celebrating a birthday when I made the rsvp and again when calling day of. I mentioned this while waiting for the updated check and a “happy birthday” plate was quickly brought out, almost as an afterthought. It consisted of little more than two gobs of whipped cream, a candle and some fruit. Finally, we chose to add back a final star for Kerry, who was not our waitress but her knowledge and enthusiasm for the history of the restaurant was infections and we enjoyed hearing her stories. Overall, a nice dining experience in Milwaukee which could be excellent with a little better attention to detail expected at this caliber of establishment.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

Great experience all around. Every dish was extremely flavorful. Service was excellent.

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★ 5

Another wonderful meal. The presentation of the food, the wait staff, service was great. Thank you.

Source: Google