An A-Z visitors guide to Milwaukee Wisconsin. Sponsored by Key Magazine Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/106587
Key RESTAURANT OF THE MONTH THE PACKING HOUSE A Milwaukee original updates interior, menu for next 40 years THE RECIPE that made The Packing House one of Milwaukee's most successful family-owned restaurants for nearly 40 years is being tweaked to meet the needs of 21st century customers. "Like other restaurants, we went through some hard times with the economic downturn," explains Chris Wiken, whose mother and father founded the South Side restaurant in 1974. "We put as much funding aside as we could, and late last year began a major renovation project that is nearing completion." Located on the north side of Mitchell International Airport, The Packing House is well known as a classic Milwaukee supper club and steakhouse. Its drive-through Friday Fish Fry is a Milwaukee original, as are weekend entertainment in the lounge and menu specialties like Garlic Stuffed Filet, Steak au Poivre, bar-b-que ribs, lobster and seafood. 58 It's also one of few restaurants in the area open every day of the year, including holidays. Surprisingly, that seven-days-a-week tradition continued through the 2012 holiday period. After the last diner departed each night, contractors installed new carpeting, arranged new tables and (sublimely comfortable) new chairs and repainted the dining area in sophisticated taupe shades. Some elements of the major renovation are still underway, but all will be completed in April when The Packing House begins its 40th year in business. In addition to the sleek new look, Wiken hired a new chef who is in the process of tuning up the menu. "We're keeping our classic steakhouse specialties, but we're adding items to update our dining options." Chef Kevin Shagen, who joined The Packing