Waking Daisy is the name of a brand new restaurant coming to the former Here Chicky Chicky space at The Corners of Brookfield which will feature scratch-made, locally sourced dishes for breakfast, brunch and lunch.
Offerings will range from classics like fluffy pancakes and eggs benedict to rotating seasonal offerings ranging to a wide range of tastes. The restaurant will also showcase a selection of health-conscious options as well as a grab-and-go section featuring breakfast sandwiches and handhelds. Meanwhile, Waking Daisy’s full bar will feature creative cocktails including brunch favorites like specialty mimosas and bloody marys along with sparkling wines.
Behind the concept are partners Nate Arkush and Andrew Foster who own seven Freshfin locations, including the successful eatery at The Corners.
“Waking Daisy is all about embracing the joy of a delicious brunch in a space that’s both lively and comforting,” notes Arkush. “We’ve created a menu that celebrates bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and the simple pleasure of gathering around the table. We can’t wait to share this experience with the Town of Brookfield community and beyond.”
In terms of its aesthetic, Waking Daisy will blend retro charm and modern sophistication to create a cozy, unique atmosphere that will be ideal for leisurely mornings, weekend brunches and everything in between.
“We are thrilled to welcome Waking Daisy to The Corners,” notes Robert Gould, CEO of Brookfield Corners LLC. “Nate has been an excellent partner, and we are looking forward to welcoming his newest restaurant concept to the town center. Waking Daisy will bring a unique dining experience to our community, offering a dynamic menu and a warm, inviting ambiance that perfectly aligns with our vibrant town center.”
Waking Daisy is currently under construction in the 3,050 square foot space on Lord Street between Freshfin and Sweetgreen. If all goes well, the eatery is slated to open in June. Hours will kick off at 7 a.m. seven days a week.
While the restaurant will initially debut breakfast, brunch and lunch menus, it has plans to offer select dinner hours in the future.
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.