Elm Grove Inn

"It's a place for special dining and family gatherings." So says an employee of Elm Grove Inn. A look around the gracious, comfy interior explains why. The well - known establishment began its career in 1855, when it was a stagecoach stop and hotel. Now a fine restaurant, many of the original features remain within, like the antique mahogany bar, above which a pressed tin ceiling reflects the soft blues and dark woods that highlight the warm interior. If the general feel is tranquil and cozy, the menu excites the palette. Featuring wild game, Angus steaks, fresh seafood and unique vegetarian presentations, there are offerings for any palette. Quiet, yet dressed to impress Elm Grove Inn remains a family favorite. In the year 1855, Elm Grove Inn began its illustrious history. Built by Frank Reusch on a thoroughfare constructed with oak planks, Elm Grove Inn served as a stagecoach stop for travelers heading west from Milwaukee. The Inn also housed a livery stable and blacksmith shop. The Inn was first known as the Elm Grove Hotel. Beginning in 1857 the Inn served as Elm Grove's first post office. By the end of the 1850's it served as a general store as well.Eventually the Inn became known as Ruesch's Tavern and featured food and drink. The Inn is believed to be the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the Milwaukee area and the second oldest in the state of Wisconsin. The Ruesch family owned the Inn for generations. Bertha Ruesch sold it in 1963 and the new ownership changed the name to the Elm Grove Inn. Although Elm Grove Inn has not changed much on the exterior, extensive remodeling has taken place on the interior. Beginning in the late 1970's the remodeling began and the Elm Grove Inn took on its current look in the middle 1990's. The original pressed tin ceiling remains in the bar as does much of the original woodwork and back bar.