Gone and Goner
Just a year ago, the Gracious Catering people opened Berkeley’s Cafe in Whitefish Bay (342 E. Silver Spring Dr., 414-897-8624). At the time, the street was ripped up. And not just for a short time. Many months. That unfortunate scenario contributed to the owners’ decision to close Berkeley’s (last Sunday), change the interior and concept, and reopen this Friday, Nov. 27 – under a new name. El Guapo (which means “gutsy” or “handsome” in Spanish) is a Mexican joint. The menu will have a little of everything – ceviche, empanadas, tacos, enchiladas, burritos. Not quite falling under the Mexican label: pumpkin soup, turkey chili, and lime Caesar salad with chile-rubbed shrimp. Five days isn’t much time to turn a business around. But that’s the deal here. Co-owner Marija Whitman says they’ve changed the decor to make the place look warmer. If the switchover goes smoothly, El Guapo will be open for lunch on Friday. Otherwise, just dinner service on that day, with lunch to come shortly.
Deep Into Peetza
Do you know about Streetza? That would mean you’re on Twitter. ’Cause that’s the way to keep up. These dudes cart their mobile pizza oven to locations like the watering holes on Water Street or the Marquette University campus. My buddy/work crony, Evan, found the truck at a Bay View Halloween event and wolfed down a slice of pumpkin-apple pizza. If you want to start feeling the pilgrim spirit, Streetza has a special Thanksgiving Feast slice – described as a full turkey day meal on three mini slices of pizza. Go to AJ Bombers (1247 N. Water St. ) tonight – provided you’re reading this on Wednesday, the 25th – and you can order it. One mini slice is the main course (smoked turkey), the second is the side dish (potato with smoky chipotle peppers, chives and sweet potato chips from AJ’s). And the third is dessert – pumpkin-apple pizza with walnuts and caramel. 6-10 p.m at Bombers. If you’re not content with my words, read more here.
Cheaper by the Dozens
You’re familiar with my page. You see the cute little smiley-face icon. Looks just like me. But how well do you know our home page? On the top right, you can search for restaurants by location, cuisine and other criteria. Starting today, you can also click on a link to a whole lotta good deals. Places you can go tonight, Friday night, for happy hour or Packers game, etc. We call it the “Daily Dining Deals,” or as I prefer to say, “Triple D.” Get a feel for it by clicking here.
Don’t miss this week’s Shopaholic to learn about new stores and events in the world of local retail.
If you spot any restaurant openings or closings out there, don’t hesitate to post it on my column, or e-mail me directly: ann.christenson@milwaukeemagazine.com
