Cranky Al's

Cranky Al's: A Wauwatosa Staple for Hand-Crafted Goodness

When you're looking for an authentic local gem in the Milwaukee area, few places hold the same warm, community-driven spirit and delicious reputation as Cranky Al's. Nestled in the heart of Wauwatosa (or 'Tosa, as locals affectionately call it), this establishment is much more than just a donut shop. It's a true Wisconsin staple that has grown from a homegrown coffee and doughnut shop in 1999 to a full-fledged local institution. Founded by Susie and Alex Brkich, who were later joined by their nephew, Joey Carioti, Cranky Al's is rooted in a passion for high-quality, handmade food and a deep commitment to the community that supported them from the start. They’ve become synonymous with a great morning pick-me-up, a casual spot for breakfast, and a business that consistently gives back to local causes. The name itself, a playful nod to a previous venture and an old-school, crank-operated donut machine, perfectly captures the shop's charming, slightly irreverent, and always genuine local flavor. The professional, friendly team strives to bring a little joy to your day, serving up delicious homemade food with a side of friendship.

What keeps people coming back, generation after generation, is the dedication to process. Every single donut is made by hand with fresh, local ingredients. This is a business where the day starts long before dawn, and a meticulous, multi-hour process—from mixing the yeast-based dough to the second proof and carefully monitored frying—ensures the perfect density and consistency. This commitment to 'slow food' quality in a 'fast treat' world is what sets Cranky Al's apart and has earned them accolades and a fiercely loyal following among Wisconsin residents and visitors alike.

Location and Accessibility

Cranky Al's enjoys a prime location in Wauwatosa, making it an easy and familiar destination for those in the Milwaukee metropolitan area and surrounding Wisconsin communities. You'll find the shop situated right on a main thoroughfare, the bustling North Avenue.

The exact address is:

6901 W North Ave, Wauwatosa, WI 53213, USA

This spot in East Tosa is highly accessible, whether you're driving or walking. For those arriving by car, the shop provides the convenience of free street parking nearby. While the line for a fresh box of donuts can sometimes stretch out the door, a testament to their quality, don't let it deter you—service is famously quick and efficient. The community has made it a point of pride to support this staple, and the staff works hard to keep things moving.

For patrons requiring it, the shop is designed to be accommodating. Its features include a wheelchair accessible restroom, ensuring that more members of the community can comfortably enjoy a sit-down breakfast or coffee break.

Comprehensive Services Offered

Cranky Al's caters to a wide variety of needs and preferences, positioning itself as a versatile spot that serves multiple roles within the community: a Donut shop, a Bakery, a Breakfast restaurant, and a Coffee shop.

Key services and dining options include:

• Curbside Pickup and In-store Pickup: Convenient options for busy locals who have placed orders online or by phone, allowing for a quick visit. They move orders fast!
• Takeout: The classic grab-and-go option for their signature donuts, coffee, and breakfast items.
• Dine-in and Onsite Services: Enjoy your meal right in the cozy, casual atmosphere, complete with ample seating for a relaxing start to your day.
• Breakfast Dining: Full breakfast offerings beyond just donuts, including hearty sandwiches and burritos.
• Specialty Doughnut Categories: A vast menu that organizes their handmade treats into Raised Doughnuts, Filled Doughnuts, and Cake Doughnuts.
• Dietary Accommodations: Thoughtful options for customers with specific dietary needs, including both Gluten Friendly and Vegan Friendly donuts.
• Coffee & Cold Beverages: A full range of hot and cold beverages, including coffee, tea, and various syrups and shots to customize your drink.
• Pizza Service: In addition to their morning fare, the establishment famously expanded to offer pizza, providing a unique day-to-night service. (Note: Pizza menu items such as Veggie and Meat Lovers are provided in the menu info.)

Features and Highlights

What makes Cranky Al's a destination worth seeking out for people in Wisconsin is not just the food, but the overall experience and the quality of their offerings. The shop has cultivated a reputation for being a truly welcoming and comfortable place for all.

Key features and highlights that set Cranky Al's apart:

• Great Coffee: Their high-quality coffee is specifically highlighted as a major feature, making it the perfect partner for their famous donuts.
• Community and Inclusivity: The shop boasts an atmosphere that is Family-friendly and LGBTQ+ friendly, creating a truly welcoming space for all members of the community.
• Acclaimed Doughnut Varieties: Their selection includes locally famous and unique items like the Apple Fritter, the impressive Crosonut (a croissant-doughnut hybrid), and their celebrated savory-sweet Cranky Cheese Pocket—a must-try delicacy that customers rave about. Other popular options include Maple Bacon and the classic Glazed Raised.
• Breakfast and Pizza Options: Beyond the sweets, they offer a full menu of breakfast sandwiches, burritos (including Meat Lovers, Chorizo, and Veggie), and pizzas, making it a comprehensive eatery.
• Modern Amenities: Customers can take advantage of the Wi-Fi and Restroom facilities, making it a comfortable spot to linger, work, or catch up with friends.
• Payment Flexibility: The shop accepts various convenient payment methods, including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
• Commitment to Dietary Needs: Offering multiple Gluten Friendly (Chocolate, Cinnamon Sugar, Vanilla) and Vegan Friendly (Oreo, Chocolate Sprinkle, Glazed) options ensures that nearly everyone can enjoy a fresh, quality treat.

Contact Information

To plan your visit, place an order, or inquire about their daily selection, here is the essential contact information for Cranky Al's. Remember, getting there early is the best way to see the full, spectacular selection before the most popular items sell out!

Address: 6901 W North Ave, Wauwatosa, WI 53213, USA

Phone: (414) 258-5282

Mobile Phone: +1 414-258-5282

Hours of Operation: The shop is generally open Tuesday through Sunday, starting early at 6:00 AM. It is closed on Mondays. Since inventory moves fast, especially on weekends, an early visit is highly recommended to secure favorites like the famous Crosonut or Cranky Cheese Pocket.

Why Cranky Al's Is Worth Choosing for Wisconsin Locals

For anyone in Wisconsin seeking an exceptional and authentic breakfast or donut experience, Cranky Al's offers compelling reasons to choose them over any chain or big-box store. The core reason is the unwavering commitment to hand-crafted quality. In a world of automated food production, Cranky Al's stands by an involved, multi-step process that ensures every raised, filled, or cake donut is made with love and attention. This dedication results in treats that have been described by patrons as "the best donuts we’ve had while in Wisconsin." The sheer variety is another huge draw, offering everything from classic favorites like the Glazed Raised and Cruller to imaginative, fun options like Gummy Yummy and Samoa donuts.

Beyond the menu, Cranky Al's is a business with heart and community spirit. They are known for being actively involved with local causes, often donating proceeds and tips to neighborhood schools and organizations—a long-standing Tuesday tradition. This isn't just a place that sells food; it’s a business that supports and reflects the values of its neighborhood. They’ve even created special collaboration doughnuts with local entrepreneurs and partnered with organizations like the Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin (DSAW), proving that community is at the core of their DNA.

Finally, the shop’s ability to cater to diverse dietary needs with high-quality Gluten Friendly and Vegan Friendly donuts ensures that no one has to miss out on the fresh, daily goodness. Whether you're a Tosa regular, a Milwaukee resident, or a visitor exploring the area, choosing Cranky Al's means supporting a local legacy, enjoying truly superior, hand-made donuts, and starting your day in a friendly, casual, and inclusive environment. You’ll quickly find that there’s really "Not much to be cranky about!" at Cranky Al's.

Cranky Al's

6901 W North Ave, Wauwatosa, WI 53213, USA