By Lori Fredrich Senior Food Writer, Dining Editor, Podcast Host Published May 29, 2024 at 11:01 AM

When Sage opened in February on the first floor of The White House at 2900 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Bay View welcomed a beautifully reimagined restaurant with a menu showcasing fresh, seasonal dishes from Chef Elaina Laurent and a bright, colorful environs inspired by art and sustainability.

But even then, there was promise of more to come, including a second-floor retail shop featuring plants and locally made goods, a gallery showcasing work by local artists, and the return of the venue’s secret garden-esque patio.

Art & artisan goods

Later this week, guests can get their first look at The Gallery – which will display the work of female artists in residence Jessica Toman, Julia O’Brien and Morgyn Stranahan – on May 31 from 5 to 10 p.m. as part of Bay View Gallery Night.

The Gallery
Just a peek! Photo by Ian Johnson
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In addition to experiencing the local artists’ work, the debut will feature live music from Sean Williamson, tarot card readings by Mandy, beaded body installations by Rhamzie, and wine tasting by AVA Wine & Spirits. 

The Gallery will be open to the public during Sage’s regular hours. It will double as a private event space, which is available for events upon request.

Guests can also take a peek at The Green Room, an artisan shop featuring plants, vintage goods, prints, and organic beauty products.

Patio vibes

Sage will also host a grand opening for their idyllic garden patio on June 14-15 from 5 to 10 p.m.

During the patio season kick-off, guests can enjoy live music in the garden, “rosé all day” wine tastings with AVA Wine & Spirits, an all-new botanically themed cocktail and mocktail list and yoga directed by General Manager Michelle Schultz.

From there, the patio will be open for the summer offering guests an opportunity to enjoy Sage’s new summer menu which incorporates plants and herbs from the onsite garden, products from local purveyors and farm fresh produce.

Porchetta
Tender porchetta at Sage shines thanks to the addition of fresh herbs.
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Sage’s operating hours are  Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to midnight and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Lunch is served beginning at 11 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday and brunch is offered Sundays beginning at 10 a.m.  

Walk-ins are always welcome, but reservations can be made online or by phone at (414) 897-0495. Parking is available on the street or in the lot adjacent to The White House on the south.

Lori Fredrich Senior Food Writer, Dining Editor, Podcast Host

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 each and every dish. She’s had the privilege of chronicling these tales via numerous media, including OnMilwaukee and in her book “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 recording the FoodCrush podcast, 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.