restaurant of the month - june 2008

Palms Bistro & Bar brings "global fusion" to Third Ward

PALMS BISTRO & Bar, located in Milwaukee's Historic Third Ward at 221 Broadway, defines the fun yet upscale essence of the neighborhood. Within walking distance of downtown, "The Ward" boasts historic buildings with Cream City brick interiors, beamed ceilings and hardwood floors.

At Palms, artwork on the walls changes regularly and is supplied by local galleries. Sports fans can keep up with their favorite teams during crucial games, thanks to two 42" flat screen HD TVs in the bar area. With the advent of warm weather, diners enjoy the popular outdoor sidewalk patio area, as well as large windows at the front of the restaurant that slide open to catch lake breezes.

Palms combines this friendly but upscale atmosphere with reasonably priced menu offerings described as "global fusion" cuisine. Although born and raised in Wausau, Wis., Head Chef Dean Brazaitis has a broad range of experience and training as a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, with honors. His trademark is bringing together the world's sauces and spices, "the best of what's out there," to create new dishes. You'll find many of your favorites here, but with an interesting twist.

For example, during a recent lunchtime, the menu featured sandwiches that included a Reuben with Guinness-braised corned beef, Bali barbecued salmon or a Black Angus Brie burger. Pastas offered a creative global tour with Tiger Shrimp on penne with avocado, grape tomatoes, sweet basil and citrus cr�me; spicy peanut sauce on linguine with Asian vegetables and cashews; tomato gnocchi with blue cheese cream sauce, asparagus and walnut; and Chipotle mac and cheese with smoked chicken, grape tomatoes and fresh cilantro.

At dinner, entrees reveal the influence of the Pacific Rim, Caribbean, Mexico and France. Choices include rum- and pepper-painted Atlantic salmon with mango rice, tostones (fried plantains) and grilled sweet peppers; ginger roasted chicken plus edamame, lychee cashew relish and soy caramel; and filet mignon with golden chanterelles, asparagus and balsamic beurre noisette.

The recently launched brunch menu is served tableside and offers breakfast items, lunch sandwiches and salads, and smoothies. The drink list includes refreshing options such as the kiwi-mango mint and the Firefly. For the more adventurous Palms offers some unique Bloody Marys such as the Thai chili and lemongrass infused and the lemon chipotle each with its very own creative garnish.

For that unforgettable special event, the second floor venue features antique fireplaces and skylights, plus a full bar, music space and a dance floor. This is a great spot for business dinners, presentations, cocktail mixers and parties.

Food is available at Palms 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Tues.-Thurs. and 11 a.m.-midnight Fri. and Sat. Sunday brunch is served 10 a.m. Ð3 p.m. The bar is open from 11 a.m.-midnight Tues.-Thurs and 11 a.m. - after midnight Fri. and Sat. For more information, phone 414-298-3000 or visit www.palmsbistrobar.com.