Truth Lounge is the tentative name of a new venue slated to replace the Nordic-themed Valhalla at 1111 N. Old World Third St.
Owner Tino Bates says that plans are still in the works for the new venue, however he says the goal is to create a spot with a "chill atmosphere where you can come hang out, have a couple of drinks and just have a really good time."
While details surrounding the concept are still evolving, he says changes to the space will be mostly cosmetic, but the plan is to give the venue a more lounge-like vibe, including couches and a new color scheme.
In addition to a full bar, Truth Lounge will feature a menu showcasing familiar items like wings, nachos and pizza, he says. Once open, the venue will also host happy hour events as well as live music.
Watch OnMilwaukee for additional details about Truth Lounge as they develop.
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.