This summer is flying by and believe it or not we're approaching the season's half way mark. Despite constant reminders of an economic recession, Milwaukee has seen rays of light this summer with the opening of a few new venues where you can get out and grab a bite to eat or drink down a cold, refreshing cocktail.

Whether you're looking to sit outdoors, eat a hefty plate of local food or just enjoy all that Milwaukee has to offer, check out these new, fine establishments opening their doors over the last six months.

Here's a mid-summer round up of new hot spots you'll want to make sure to check out before the summer's end.

Bar 333
333 W. Kilbourn Ave., (414)270-6130
www.hyatthotel.com
Located in the lobby of the Hyatt Hotel, Bar 333 runs a menu of natural created cocktails with discreet liquors and fresh fruits and herbs. The bar itself is small and cozy but the drinks hit with big flavor. There isn't outdoor seating, so maybe save this one for a cool night or rainy afternoon.

Café Hollander- Wauwatosa
7677 State St., (414) 475-6771
www.cafehollander.com
Expanding from the East Side to the suburbs, Café Hollander opened a second location in the Wauwatosa Village earlier this month. Placing diners in outdoor seating over the Menomonee River, Café Hollander's patio is the perfect place to experience a touch of town and a touch of nature.

Leff's Lucky Town
7208 W. State St., (414) 258-9886
www.leffs.com/leffs
Obviously, this has been a Wauwatosa go-to staple for years. But this summer, they've expanded with additional non-smoking seating as well as two tiered outdoor patio. Just when you thought they couldn't lure in more rec leagues from neighboring Hart Park, this classic sports bar makes this just a touch more comfortable with quite a bit more room.

Mazatlan
601 Milwaukee St., (262) 646-9687
If you find yourself west in Delafield, this new Mexican restaurant plates authentic food on an intimate courtyard patio. A tiki-hut style bar sits center stage while ample seating is surrounded by a perimeter of fresh mint plants. Incredibly friendly staff adds to an expansive menu and perfect summertime margaritas.

St. Francis Brewery
3825 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., (414) 744-4448
Homegrown beer and home-style food make this new brewery a local favorite for St. Francis and Bay View residents. A wrap around outdoor deck seats diners in the sunshine and all day/all night hours serves up pints and plates whenever your stomach is growling.

Tonic
2335 S. Kinnickinnic Ave.
Hidden across from the Highbury on Kinnickinnic Avenue, this is the best new patio to open this summer. Set back from the street, an open driveway type walkway serves as a wide patio with ample seating and quiet ambience. You'll find locals there every night of the week and the setting manages to balance up beat intense with calm and collected.

The Yard
500 W. Florida St., (414) 374-4766
www.ironhorsehotel.com
When the Iron Horse Hotel opened, we knew there would be more surprises and dining options to come. The Yard, the hotel's outdoor lounge, opened earlier in the summer. Facing west, The Yard is a laid back way to watch the sunset over Miller Park or enjoy cool breezes during happy hour.