Wednesday, November 30th -0001
Y Not II
By Ben Burns
The Y-Not II bears the atmosphere of a highway worker who stole his grandma’s holiday decorations and started a bar in the attic above his garage. Clad with paper jack-o-lanterns covering the ceiling, large leather booths, tacky walls, and a free pool table, the Y-Not II is a dive bar with character. While some small establishments can isolate new customers with the controlling “regulars” mentality, anybody can walk into the low-lit smoky Y-Not II and feel welcome. The Y-Not II is also rich with history,
being the sequel to the original
Y-Not that closed in the 70’s, and father bar to the Y-Not III (on Kennilworth next to Yield). The Y-Not II lends itself to Milwaukee citizens as a homey watering hole conducive to conversation as well as heavy drinking, without the crowds and obnoxious loud music of more popular bars. Though void of nightly specials, there are mainstay
deals such as two Smirnoff Martini’s for $6. I suggest the liter mugs of beer, ranging in price from $3.75-$9.00, depending on which brew you choose. The Y Not II’s beer selection is pretty standard; offering all the staples as well as the Sprecher infused “Y-Not Light.” Interestingly enough, the bar offers miniature bottles of Makers Mark whiskey, as well as other liquors, for around $7. A night of free popcorn,
pool, and $4 mugs at the Y-Not II probably won’t be a night you’ll remember forever, but the tattered charm it wields will lead you back to its door again someday
down the line.
Neighborhood: East Town
