One of Milwaukee's favorite summertime hot spots isn't going into hibernation this year, as patio season paradise Barnacle Bud's announced it will turn into Gene's Supper Club for the winter. 

As opposed to shutting down for the season per usual, the dockside dining and drinking establishment will transform its intimate indoor space into a supper club-style pop-up. The Facebook post announcing the pop-up says Gene's Supper Club will start in December – though, according to Barnacle Bud's general manager Yvonne Walton, the concept may possibly open as soon as Black Friday, aka Friday, Nov. 24. 

"We wanted to do something a little different that might entice people to come out here during that time of year, when we're not on anyone's radar usually because we're always equated with summertime," Walton told OnMilwaukee.

Gene's Supper Club – named after Barnacle Bud's owner, Gene McKiernan – will come complete with revamped themed menus as well. According to Walton, the food menu is expected to feature classic starters like shrimp cocktail and calamari, along with supper club entree staples such as ribeye, filets, pork chops and portobello steaks. Of course, the waterside eatery will serve seafood on its supper club menu as well, including pan-seared fish dishes, grilled shrimp, scallops and a new take on its popular fish fry.

The drink offerings will get a themed refresh as well, Walton noted, with new variations on old fashioneds and ice cream drinks all on the docket.

Unlike Barnacle Bud's usual summer service, reservations will be required for Gene's Supper Club due to the limited size of the indoor dining room space. Reservations for the pop-up will be available for dinner service on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays as well as Sundays for brunch. Interested parties will be able to book their table on Barnacle Bud's website – so stay tuned there for updates and opportunities. 

Walton noted that Gene's Supper Club is currently planned to run through December – but depending on response and demand, the pop-up may stay open further into the winter as well. 

For more updates and information, check out Barnacle Bud's Facebook page or website. And for other holiday happenings, polar pop-ups and beyond – plus a first look at Gene's Supper Club – stay tuned to OnMilwaukee.