Safe House, Milwaukee

Tucked behind an unmarked red door in a quiet Milwaukee alleyway lies one of the city’s most peculiar and playful institutions: the SafeHouse, a spy-themed restaurant that’s been offering covert dining missions since 1966. Conceived by local agent-turned-restaurateur David J. Baldwin, the SafeHouse is a labyrinth of espionage kitsch, double-agent décor, and interactive gadgets that blur the line between dinner and undercover operation.

To even get inside, you’ll need a password-or the willingness to embarrass yourself with a goofy dance (which, by the way, might be broadcast to everyone already inside). Once through the secret bookcase entrance, guests are immersed in a spy fantasy world packed with Cold War-era memorabilia, trick mirrors, hidden passageways, mysterious tubes that shake your martinis, and cheeky surprises tucked into the most unexpected places-including the bathrooms.

The restaurant’s mascot, Yugyps (that's "Spyguy" backward), watches over guests as they navigate booths with secret entrances, blackjack games for free drinks, and even a presidential throne that rises from the floor to a triumphant soundtrack-available for a small fee, of course.

While the food is standard American fare-cheeseburgers, sandwiches, and the obligatory award-winning cheese curds-it’s the experience that makes the SafeHouse memorable. It’s been featured in Time, People, Wired, and even on The History Channel as one of the coolest secret spots in the U.S. Milwaukeeans might lovingly call it a “tourist trap,” but it’s the kind you’ll want to fall into, especially if you enjoy a side of theatrics with your fries.

In 2015, Baldwin sold the SafeHouse to the Marcus Corporation, which renovated and reopened it in 2016. Still linked to the Newsroom Pub, the spy-themed spot remains a quirky Milwaukee favorite-filled with games, magic, poker, and cocktails served via pneumatic tube. Just don’t forget the password.