Discover the unique culinary journey of a local chef who pays homage to fast food classics with gourmet twists. Meanwhile, several changes are sweeping through Milwaukee's business landscape, from the closure of beloved establishments to the introduction of exciting new ventures.

Crafty Cow's Gourmet Fast Food Homage

In an unexpected twist, Crafty Cow is transforming familiar fast food favorites into elevated dishes for the entire month of April. This initiative marks a playful celebration of the restaurant's decade-long presence in the community.

Owner Devin Eichler has long cherished fast food as a personal indulgence. Recognizing this shared secret among industry professionals, he decided to honor it by reimagining iconic items with a sophisticated flair. For instance, Panda Express’s orange chicken finds its way into a burrito filled with kimchi fried rice, carrots, cilantro lime crema, and custom chicken nuggets. Similarly, the McRib receives a makeover with real rib meat, served on a cornbread bun from Midwest Sad and topped with barbecue sauce. These creations exemplify how traditional fast food can be redefined through creativity and innovation.

Business Landscape Shifts in Milwaukee

Milwaukee's business scene is evolving rapidly, with some establishments closing their doors while others prepare to welcome customers. From bakery openings to sports bar sales, these changes reflect the dynamic nature of the city's entrepreneurial spirit.

Notable closures include Sweetly Baked, which announced its impending shutdown despite its thriving reputation. Owner Amanda Buhrman cited economic challenges as the primary reason, emphasizing that maintaining current operations would require substantial financial investment. Elsewhere, Dior’s Gallery transitioned from hosting brunches to operating as Weekend Grub but ultimately ceased operations after less than a year. Conversely, new opportunities abound, such as Poppy Bakery set to debut on the East Side under Amy Gorski's leadership. Additionally, Rounding Third sports bar is currently up for sale, presenting potential buyers with an established venue boasting prime location near American Family Field. These shifts underscore both the risks and rewards inherent in running small businesses within Milwaukee's vibrant community.