Each week on Radio Milwaukee, Milwaukee Magazine dining critic Ann Christenson and 88Nine’s resident foodie Tarik Moody discuss Milwaukee’s culinary and restaurant culture on “ This Bites.”
Our latest episode pops off with the news that Lush Popcorn is due to set up shop in Riverwest in the former Klinger’s East space. We also talk about an incredible four-day celebration of food at Turner Hall that doubles as a graduation day for a group of local chefs.
Listen — and read — below for more on those stories, plus a new brunch spot, a peach-centric social event and other food news Ann has gathered from around town.
Way more than popcorn
As reported by Urban Milwaukee, Lush Gourmet Popcorn and Lemonade has its sights set on a Riverwest location that will allow the company to move well beyond snacking. According to the liquor license application for 920 E. Locust St., owner Marcia Taylor plans to offer popcorn and beverages — both with and without alcohol — a range of snacks, and a few tavern staples like burgers, fries and fish.
Out of the frying pan …
It’s “into the fire” time for a collection of local chefs who are currently presenting restaurant concepts at a showcase hosted by the soon-to-open Turning Tables Tavern and Eatery in Turner Hall. But thanks to the restaurant’s owners, the aspirants went in prepared.
The event, which runs through tomorrow, is a final exam of sorts for the chefs, who went through a months-long training program covering everything from menu design to marketing. Event organizer Emerald Mills told Urban Milwaukee the goal is to elevate minority-owned businesses — a broader mission for Mills, who founded Diverse Dining and also co-owns Turning Tables.
Restaurant roundup
The recently scaled-back Palomino has a ticketed dinner event on the books for next Wednesday, July 27. The Peach Social with Tree Ripe Fruit Co. will feature Georgia’s favorite produce in a variety of dishes, desserts and drinks. You can get tickets now, but first be sure to check out a few other stories from Ann and the team at Milwaukee Magazine:
- A brand-new brunch at Saint Kate – The Art Hotel’s champagne bar
- Odd Duck adapting to its new location in Walker’s Point
- Bartolotta Restaurants taking over the Roundhouse at McKinley Marina
