Warning: Epicurean Adventure Ahead

Foodies beware: I am about to take you on an epicurean adventure.

I know, I know, until you encountered my blog you most likely associated Milwaukee with an abundance of beer, cheese, Harley Davidsons and reruns of Laverne & Shirley.

That's what came to my mind, anyway, when my husband Scott first told me he'd landed a job here. Like many people who’ve never visited, I just never pegged Milwaukee as a haven for good eats.

Having grown up in the South and done my best to travel everywhere except what I previously only referred to as "the cold bluish-purple region on the northern part of the U.S. weather map," I hadn't given Milwaukee much thought whatsoever -- Food, entertainment, or otherwise.

But to the delight of my spoiled little epicurean heart, there turned out to be tons of culinary gems to discover.

From fish fries, frozen custard, and a vast array of ethnic bakeries and markets, to “Supper Clubs,” corner pubs, and beyond, Milwaukee offers a lot of exceptional culinary experiences.

And because I would hate for any visitor or longtime resident to miss out on an opportunity to score great food and soak up a little of that special something that makes Milwaukee culture completely unique, I’m going to share some of the must-not-miss culinary experiences this Midwestern city has to offer.

But before I drag you from one enclave to another, let me level with you —

I am not a food “critic.”

Sure, I have a well-founded knowledge of food and food trends but I am not going to assign a certain number of stars to a restaurant or try to analyze what kind of spice went into their family’s secret sauce (but I’m not above asking if I think you might really want to know!).

No, I’m simply going to give you a food lover’s 4-1-1 on Milwaukee’s culinary culture.

Naturally, I’ll show you all the nifty places to nosh and highlight all the cool little markets or specialty shops you might somehow miss. And if I’m feeling really generous, I might even reveal where you can find that somewhat obscure spice or a perfectly ripe mango in the middle of what is starting to feel like a very looooo-ng winter! ;-)

Of course I’ll also introduce you to some of my friends, family and my fabulous husband (What does anything matter, if you can’t share it with those you love most?)

That said, sharing all this info in a blog naturally invites interaction. I hope you’ll be willing to share your comments or your favorite Milwaukee food moment. I’m looking forward to hearing from you and to sharing all my culinary exploits with you . . . ‘till then, cheers to great travels and even better food!

Comments

[Amanda]

Hey! I'm here via Erin's Play in the City blog. I'm looking forward to reading about the culinary attractions in Milwaukee. I'm originally from Southeastern WI, so I know Milwaukee pretty well. But I haven't done a lot of dining there, and I'm living in the Twin Cities now, so it'll be fun dining out vicariously through you!

And believe me, the fish fries in Milwaukee are just the best. Living in MN, you'd think that I could find a great fish fry. But nothing is better than a good old fashioned WI fish fry. I crave them every Friday.

Good luck with your blog!

[Audra]

Thanks Amanda! I agree the fish fry is definately a must. Please send me your fave places for them and I'll add them to my "to-try" list!

Also - I know you must miss WI, but lucky you to be in the Twin Cities! (IKEA store access - need I say more?!)My husband is from that area and we love to visit whenever we can.

[Sue Bellin]

I was watching your interview on the news show on Wednseday while exercising at the Y and you had your recipe for Chocolate Chili. I wasn't able to copy it and was wondering if you could e-mail it to me.
Sue