“Top Chef: Wisconsin” has Milwaukee buzzing! The first two episodes of this season were a fantastic showcase of the city, and episode three looks to continue the streak.
This Wednesday, April 3, at Enlightened Brewing (2020 S. Allis St.), we’re hosting a watch party to celebrate the season and watch the new episode together with James Beard Award-winning chef Dane Baldwin, the guest judge from that night’s show.
The party is free and open to the public! But to guarantee that you get the best view of the action, reserve a seat ahead of time with a VIP ticket. Along with the seat, the ticket will get you one drink ticket and a complimentary copy of our new Best Restaurants issue. You can purchase those tickets here.
Starting at 6 p.m., Sweet Smoke food truck will be on site, serving delicious barbecue – and drinks will be available from Enlightened.
The episode starts at 8 p.m., and afterward, we’ll be hosting a Q&A with Baldwin. He’ll talk about what it’s like behind the scenes of “Top Chef,” judging alongside Tom Colicchio, Gail Simmons and Kristen Kish, what he would have cooked if he were a cheftestant and much more.
We’ll also be speaking with Claire Koenig, the VP of communication and advocacy at Visit Milwaukee, who was instrumental in bringing “Top Chef” to Wisconsin. She’ll provide some insight into the process behind convincing the team to showcase Milwaukee.
Judge Derek Mosley, the Director of the Lubar Center for Public Policy Research and Civic Education at Marquette University Law School and an avid Milwaukee foodie, will join the panel to talk about the vibrant and expanding local dining scene.
Also, Paul Bartolotta, chef, owner and co-founder of The Bartolotta Restaurants will be there to talk about his experience as a guest judge on the show, as well as his perspective on what bringing “Top Chef” to Milwaukee means to the city.
We’re looking forward to hosting the party – hope to see you there!

