- Attraction: Mainstream Bar & Grill
- Location: 404 W Main St, Waukesha, WI 53186
- Industry: Sports Bar
- Website: https://www.mainstreambarandgrill.com/
Mainstream Bar & Grill has been serving downtown Waukesha since 2012, transforming what could have been just another sports bar into something locals passionately defend as home to Wisconsin’s finest burger.
This contemporary sports bar occupies a historic Boomtown-style storefront with an eye-catching stepped gable facade on West Main Street.
What sets Mainstream apart isn’t just the food—though you’ll quickly understand why regulars drive from Milwaukee just for their burgers—but the genuine energy that pulses through the space during live music nights, trivia competitions, and weekend gatherings.
Menu Highlights
The Build-Your-Own Burger Experience: Here’s where Mainstream truly shines. You choose your protein base—half-pound beef patty, turkey burger, six-ounce Angus shoulder tender, veggie burger, tuna steak, or chicken breast—and then pile on unlimited toppings at no extra charge.
Want three types of cheese, a fried egg, portabella mushrooms, and bacon? Go for it. The final creation arrives so towering that servers stab a knife through the center to keep everything together.
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Keep Exploring →Spice-Rubbed Wings: These aren’t your typical over-sauced wings. The kitchen applies a perfect spice rub that delivers flavor without drowning the meat. You can choose from flavors like Caribbean Jerk (spicy but manageable), Buffalo, Jamaican Jerk, Sriracha BBQ, and Garlic Parmesan. The Tuesday and Thursday specials make them incredibly affordable at $1 for traditional wings and 75 cents for boneless.
Beer-Battered Cheese Curds: These golden nuggets arrive piping hot with white cheddar cheese that stretches beautifully. The batter stays light and never greasy—a feat that impresses even Wisconsin cheese curd connoisseurs. The accompanying ranch dressing becomes almost unnecessary when the cheese itself delivers such rich flavor.
Loaded Super Tots: Think tater tots taken to their absolute peak. These crispy potato gems get loaded with toppings that create the perfect combination of textures and flavors. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and fluffy interior, combined with melted cheese and savory toppings, creates an irresistible side dish that pairs perfectly with any burger.
Fish Fry Special: Friday nights bring out Mainstream’s take on Wisconsin’s beloved tradition. You get three average-sized pieces of fish with traditional accompaniments and your choice of side. While the breading style might not appeal to everyone, the generous portions and Friday atmosphere make it worth experiencing.
Steak Flatbread: This creative menu item showcases the kitchen’s ability to elevate bar food into something more refined while keeping the casual, approachable spirit intact.
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Discover MoreAtmosphere & Entertainment
Rock and Roll Vibes: The interior celebrates music culture with album covers, guitars, and autographed drum heads creating visual interest throughout the space. It feels authentic rather than contrived—like someone’s personal collection grew into a restaurant’s personality.
Open Kitchen Design: You can watch the cooks work their magic at the exposed professional grill behind the bar. This creates an engaging dining experience where the sizzling sounds and aromatic clouds become part of the entertainment.
Outdoor Deck: During warmer months, the covered back deck provides a completely different atmosphere. It’s quieter than the main dining room and perfect for conversation while still maintaining that energetic Mainstream vibe.
Live Entertainment Schedule: Wednesday nights bring karaoke starting at 8:30pm, Tuesday nights feature free trivia at 8pm, Thursday nights host open jam sessions at 8pm, and Saturday nights showcase live music beginning at 8:30pm. The space includes a stage that transforms into a giant screen for big-game viewing when bands aren’t performing.
Contemporary Sports Bar Feel: Multiple large-screen TVs ensure you won’t miss any games, while the overall design feels modern and welcoming rather than dark or dingy like some traditional taverns.
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Keep Exploring →Other Considerations
Pricing Philosophy: The pricing structure here makes sense and feels fair. Building your own burger with unlimited toppings for around $11 represents exceptional value, especially when comparable restaurants charge extra for each addition. Wing specials on Tuesday and Thursday create amazing deals, and the overall menu pricing positions Mainstream as accessible rather than premium.
Parking and Location: You’ll find convenient parking available, and the downtown Waukesha location puts you in the heart of a walkable, attractive area with other shops and attractions nearby.
Wait Times and Popularity: This place gets busy, especially during dinner hours and game nights. The popularity means you might wait for a table, but the consistent quality explains why locals keep returning. Service moves efficiently considering the volume they handle.
Special Events and Deals: Monday features $5 Tall Tito’s mixers, Friday brings fish fry specials plus $1 off shots and bombs, and Sunday offers $5 mimosas from 11am-4pm along with game day specials.
Dietary Accommodations: They offer gluten-free buns and cook gluten-free burgers on a separate grill, though side options remain limited to salads for those with celiac concerns.
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Discover MoreFamily-Friendly Atmosphere: Despite being primarily a bar, families feel welcome here, especially during earlier dining hours. The menu includes options that appeal to younger diners alongside the more adventurous adult selections.
Mainstream Bar & Grill
📍 404 W Main St, Waukesha, WI 53186
