The trade deadline in the NBA is a month away, but the Bucks have already made a big addition ... off the court, as Deer District announced its plans for the former Punch Bowl Social space: a brand new concept from local bar entertainment group Bars & Recreation.
The new concept will be called The New Fashioned, focusing on Milwaukee and Wisconsin traditions – ranging from food and drink options to entertainment elements and a curated retail marketplace – in the revamped 25,000-square-foot space across from Fiserv Forum.
Bars & Recreation – which also runs interactive bar entertainment hubs like AXE MKE, Nine Below, NorthSouth Club, Amped and Game Show MKE – is currently "in discussions with area restaurateurs to partner on the project," according to a release.
"I’m so proud to be growing this company again, especially after the challenges of the last few years in this industry," said Marla Poytinger, CEO of Bars & Recreation, in the press release. "Between The New Fashioned project and our West Allis expansion, we’ll be adding 35,000 square feet of prime hospitality space to our diverse portfolio – just prior to what is sure to be an incredible summer in Milwaukee."
The New Fashioned moves into the space formerly occupied by interactive bar and restaurant chain Punch Bowl Social, originally opened in 2019. The location closed during COVID-19 and didn't reopen again until March of 2022, only to close for good a year and a half later in October 2023.
“We are so excited to partner with Bars & Recreation on bringing The New Fashioned to Deer District,” said Michael Belot, Senior Vice President of Bucks Ventures and Development, in the press release. "Deer District is continuously redefining Downtown Milwaukee as a destination for both the community and tourists, and we are thrilled to welcome the first woman-owned small business to Deer District."
The New Fashioned is expected to open sometime in 2024, with more details expected during a joint press conference with the Bucks and Bars & Recreation on Wednesday, Jan. 24. For more info, check out the new concept's website – and stay tuned to OnMilwaukee.
As much as it is a gigantic cliché to say that one has always had a passion for film, Matt Mueller has always had a passion for film. Whether it was bringing in the latest movie reviews for his first grade show-and-tell or writing film reviews for the St. Norbert College Times as a high school student, Matt is way too obsessed with movies for his own good.
When he's not writing about the latest blockbuster or talking much too glowingly about "Piranha 3D," Matt can probably be found watching literally any sport (minus cricket) or working at - get this - a local movie theater. Or watching a movie. Yeah, he's probably watching a movie.
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