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EsterEv
2165 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., (414) 312-8606
esterev.com
New American
$$$$
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What was once a tiny restaurant-inside-a-restaurant at DanDan now has its very own home in the Bay View neighborhood.
The restaurant, which has always been a personal venture, is arguably even moreso a reflection of Chefs Dan Jacobs and Dan Van Rite's personalities. The dining room is filled with plants, reflecting Van Rite's interest in botany and his inherently green thumb. Meanwhile the playful art and tchotchkes depicting Star Wars, the Simpsons and Lord of the Rings reflect Top Chef runner-up Jacobs' personal interests.
As for its fare, the newly reimagined restaurant offers a similarly intimate, high-quality dining experience to that for which EsterEv has become known. But one could argue that the vibe is slightly more casual and neighborhood-driven, with pricing to match (four courses is just $80 per person, with optional upgrades).
As always, guests can expect personality, seasonality and creativity reflected on the menu. Currently that comes through with dishes like shrimp toast embellished with ground cherries and peach peppers; housemade gnudi with charred ricotta, root vegetables and kale; scallops with sweet potatoes, brussels sprouts and coriander; and intriguing desserts including one entitled: "grilled apple pie".
It's an excellent place to gather with family and friends over the holidays... and right into the new year. Reservations are highly recommended. You can make yours here.
As a passionate champion of the local dining scene, Lori has reimagined the restaurant critic's role into that of a trusted dining concierge, guiding food lovers to delightful culinary discoveries and memorable experiences.
Lori is an avid cook whose accrual of condiments and spices is rivaled only by her cookbook collection. Her passion for the culinary industry was birthed while balancing A&W root beer mugs as a teenage carhop, fed by insatiable curiosity and fueled by the people whose stories entwine with every dish. Lori is the author of two books: the "Wisconsin Field to Fork" cookbook and "Milwaukee Food". Her work has garnered journalism awards from entities including the Milwaukee Press Club. In 2024, Lori was honored with a "Top 20 Women in Hospitality to Watch" award by the Wisconsin Restaurant Association.
When she’s not eating, photographing food, writing or planning for TV and radio spots, you’ll find Lori seeking out adventures with her husband Paul, traveling, cooking, reading, learning, snuggling with her cats and looking for ways to make a difference.
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