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Cafe Benelex, 346 N. Broadway, has long been beloved for its rooftop experience, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of Downtown Milwaukee with open seating during the warmer months and a temporary heated tent in the winter. But, beginning as soon as May, that experience is slated to get even better.
Lowlands has announced a major renovation for the landmark rooftop: the installation of a retractable glass system which covers the entire southern third of the rooftop and opens, accordion-style, by sliding the walls to either side of the roof.
The new design will eliminate the need for a tent on the rooftop, replacing it with a state-of-the-art, first-of-its-kind Roll-A-Cover enclosure in Milwaukee. The cover, which opens from east to west, allows fresh air and sunlight in when the weather is clement.
But it also provides shelter from rain, snow and cooler temperatures allowing guests to enjoy more of the rooftop all year long.
Overall, the renovations mean more control of the rooftop climate, allowing year-round parties and gatherings to be held on the rooftop, even if the weather turns.
“That’s the goal with this project,” notes Eric Wagner, owner of Lowlands Group. “Our interior renovation last year was a great success, and this is the next stage of Benelux’s evolution. This rooftop reno is about creating a space that’s as inviting and enjoyable in inclement winter as it is in summer. Whether you're here for a casual bite or a special occasion, we want to make sure our guests have a memorable experience year-round.
"Weddings, corporate gatherings, and other private events will get a major upgrade. We’re excited to offer a versatile venue that works for any occasion, from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations. This upgrade will elevate the rooftop as a top destination for private events in Milwaukee.”
As a passionate champion of the local dining scene, Lori has reimagined the restaurant critic's role into that of a trusted dining concierge, guiding food lovers to delightful culinary discoveries and memorable experiences.
Lori is an avid cook whose accrual of condiments and spices is rivaled only by her cookbook collection. Her passion for the culinary industry was birthed while balancing A&W root beer mugs as a teenage carhop, fed by insatiable curiosity and fueled by the people whose stories entwine with every dish. Lori is the author of two books: the "Wisconsin Field to Fork" cookbook and "Milwaukee Food". Her work has garnered journalism awards from entities including the Milwaukee Press Club. In 2024, Lori was honored with a "Top 20 Women in Hospitality to Watch" award by the Wisconsin Restaurant Association.
When she’s not eating, photographing food, writing or planning for TV and radio spots, you’ll find Lori seeking out adventures with her husband Paul, traveling, cooking, reading, learning, snuggling with her cats and looking for ways to make a difference.
