There’s something about Gatsby.
F. Scott Fitzgerald makes it impossible for us to forget Jay, Nick and Daisy by painting a picture of a world rich with beauty, idealism and tragedy that’s as inherently relatable for readers today as it was 85 years ago. We can sympathize with Gatsby because at one time or another, we’ve all wanted something (or someone) that was out of reach—and have experienced the overwhelming disillusionment that accompanies that reality check. However, despite the novel’s tragic ending, we’re also given a glimpse into the glory and grandeur that defined the 1920s. Excesses? Yes. But marvelously fun and mischievous ones at that.
Unlike my partner in crime, cooking is not exactly my forte. I love reading recipes and saying the names of ingredients out loud—but preferably over a baked potato or a plate of Chinese takeout. So, when it came time for me to make a connection with this fabulous novel, I took a decidedly less DIY route and drew on a true area of expertise: happy hour in Brew City.
I love Milwaukee. I’ve lived here all my life and have come to appreciate its blue-collar elegance, quirky neighborhoods and colorful cast of characters—as well as embrace the habits that have led to our distinction as, yes, America’s Drunkest City. That being said, we’re not solely a town of bowling alleys and dive bars. If you’ve spent any time downtown, hopefully you’ve noticed some of the gorgeous vintage buildings that are either beautifully maintained or waiting for someone enterprising and visionary to restore them to their original majesty. One of my favorites (and an outstanding spot for an after-work cocktail) is the Metro Lounge at Hotel Metro, located at the corner of Mason and Broadway—and it’s here that we decided to pay homage to Gatsby.
The Hotel Metro was actually built in the 1930s, making it a few years too young to be truly reminiscent of our great novel. But the art deco style and feel of this hotel are more than enough to make the space seem magical and Gatsby-esque. The Metro Lounge hosts a happy hour from 4-6:30pm, Monday through Friday, that’s not to be missed. Cocktail and wine lists are updated quite frequently and specials change daily, but martinis on Friday are a standard—and a must-do. Several appetizers are also offered at a discounted price, a welcome pairing for your drink of choice. Explore the rest of the hotel while you’re there, if you can. The rooms, though modern, are divine, and the ballroom is a sight to behold. I’ve ended my day at the Metro Lounge countless times and on each visit, I fall in love all over again. Hopefully you will, too.
More than anything, the Metro Lounge offers its visitors a distinctive and delicious getaway from the present day to a bygone era…which is exactly what Gatsby would have wanted, anyway.
IF YOU GO:
Hotel Metro | 411 East Mason Street | Milwaukee, WI 53202 | (414) 272-1937 | http://www.hotelmetro.com