Milwaukee’s hidden speakeasy, Shanghai, has expanded. Here’s what it’s like

Shanghai MKE, Milwaukee’s East Side alleyway speakeasy, recently got a little bit bigger, meaning you can now share the joy of escapism with more confidantes. The expansion, announced in January, favors more intimate tableside chatter and barside mixology. It’s easier than ever to throw private parties, have larger group gatherings, and even book a buyout.

Voted by USA Today readers as the number one speakeasy in the United States in 2025, Shanghai has certainly made its mark on a national scale. But before being transformed by owners New Land Enterprises in 2019, it was merely a restaurant storage closet. Turned into a desirable and lively space, it went on to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, pivoting into a table-format speakeasy fit for dates, girls’ nights, and more.

Thanks to its expansion, you can now make reservations for up to eight people instead of four, sit in a back room with red velvet curtains and cozy candles, or even sit barside to watch bartenders shake like there’s no tomorrow. The capacity is now 45.