by Jack Roman

In the weeks since the last Empress Envy Night and the end of the electronic Kamasutra there has been a tight-lipped group working on delivering the second coming to North Avenue. With the close of Mantra, an electronic music Mecca, this diverse group of people have fully revamped the location and brought a slick new concept.

With construction under a fair bit of secrecy, the rumors about what’s next for the underground spot have bounded from a “Water Street ” sports bar concept, to strip club, to talk about some new “clubby” place coming to the underground spot. To dispel some rumors and get a sneak peak, The Milwaukee Scene was invited for unprecedented access to a club still under construction.

From the designers computer generated renderings the first impression is that the space is huge, sleek and stylized. Designer and project manager Scott Genke, who’s work can be experienced at Yaffa Lounge, Redroom, and Mantra has really pushed the envelope on what you can expect in a club environment. “It’s nice to start work in a gutted space,” says Scott as he shows us the renderings of a space with three bars, two DJ booths, two entrances and two distinct layouts.

What you can expect from the staff and management is superior service. “This is a completely VIP club,” says D. Bowie entrepreneur and partner in the new hot spot. “We have really expanded the ideas about what a club experience should be.” Partners in the venture include the afore mentioned D. Bowie, Drew Deuster and JJ Kovacovich all 3 established night life regulars. Drew brings club knowledge and experience that stretches from his young day’s bartending in Florida to the present as VIP and Event Manager at CO2 Ultralounge. JJ Kovacovich has been a staple in the industry and is best known for his work at Hi Hat as well as soft-core inspired Sunday nights at Redlight.

When guests enter through the North Avenue doorway they will be greeted by a hotel concierge inspired desk area. Then as they move into the club, the left side will be known as DeepBar and will offer a warm feel to its customers. Complete with plasma screens, a billiards table and its own DJ booth, DeepBar is designed to deliver atmospheric effects as well as multi media providing the place with versatility and comfort. As Bowie describes how we were standing at the dividing line of two different spaces, he says, “So often you have a place that is a club, or a place that is a bar. This place will be both and will pull it off with exceptional confidence.” The vibe on this side will be all about being a bar seven days a week.

For the weekend scene, guests will enter on North Avenue and walk through a glass door on the right and into a space called Decibel that is comfortable, yet high energy. With a booming state-of-the-art sound system, a sophisticated lighting and visual display system, a DJ booth, two bars and a dedicated VIP lounge Decibel is where a lot of action will be. VIP’s get a raised and spacious area nestled behind the DJ booth; a great location to watch the night life from. There is also a bar, the third in the club, dedicated to VIP patrons. The second entrance on Kenilworth will continue to be VIP access and leads directly into Decibel’s VIP lounge.

Other interesting features of the club will be a few new bathrooms that will service the DeepBar area as well as the elegant geometry of the bars, DJ booths and dance floor. The original capacity of the space was in the vicinity of 320 but with the restructuring of the space and addition of more bathrooms the capacity is expected to be greater than that of Mantra. LCDs, projectors, vivid colors and fabrics selection and media art will be a big part of the environment. According to the team, guests can expect to experience a fully multimedia capable lounge and club where anything is possible.

So what about Mantra Lounge? Who gets the neon sign outside? The group is not sure yet. Perhaps a party will decide its fate. What about the artifacts and details that delivered much of Mantra’s charm? Some those mementos will be used to decorate the back office. Decibel won’t remind you of anything else in the city we’re assured. Everyone involved has taken great care to provide a unique identity to the new project. Will any of the familiar employees be returning to staff Decibel? Drew recognizes that part of Mantras success was due to an excellent staff and will be the first to be considered for opportunities when the doors open.

Oh ya – when will the doors open? In April, Deuster says will a smile.

The team says they want to lead the next generation of nightlife in Milwaukee and we agree they can from the glimpse we’ve seen of Decibel. Best Wishes.

Stay up to date and find out more at The Milwaukee Scene and at:

http://www.decibelmke.com
http://myspace.com/decibelmke

by: Jack Roman

Old Blue Eyes got it right when he said, “A simple I love you means more than money.” And that’s what Valentine’s Day is all about, creative ways to say I love you with out getting caught up in the over hyped commercialism of it all. For this first edition of The Blue Print I sat down with Ben Christiansen of Waterford Wine Company, and Danielle Gray and Libby Mast of Miss Groove and Miss Groove Intimates to offer up some low maintenance ideas that will make your valentine’s heart melt.

Day-time Romance

Many women say that anticipation is the most essential part of having a romantic night. Even in 2007 nothing will make a woman anticipate seeing you like getting fresh flowers at work. It’s not just the gesture, or the fact that women love gifts, but also because the other women in the office will talk about what a great guy you must be. While red roses are the traditional for love, try a different color, white or yellow ones are just as stunning. Or ask your florist to come up with a custom arrangement, something that includes your woman’s favorite flowers.

Pre-Dinner Romance

It’s time to have a few moments before you rush out to that romantic dinner. A perfect way to unwind is with some champagne and some chocolate. Ben Christiansen, an expert sommelier, says that nothing that can relax you and inspire candle light romance like champagne. He suggests a Rene Geoffroy Selectionee, describing it as, “A floral, rich and rounded wine. Like a million simple pleasures or a slight kiss in a glass.” A little champagne will definitely do the trick in getting your heart in the mood, he says. When she comes home from work meet her at the door with a glass of bubbly, some quality dark chocolate and a neck massage. Just a few intimate moments early on will go a long way later in the night.

Romantic Dinner

Even for food lovers, this is sometimes the most mundane part of Valentine’s Day. It’s expected that you will make reservations for “the best table in the house” at the swankiest restaurant in town. But that does not have to be the case. Instead, try a restaurant that she wouldn’t expect on a special occasion. For romance, some of the favorites were a back table at Good Life, an oversized booth in the bar of The Knick, or the incredible downtown view that Roots Cellar offers. What’s important is to think differently about needing to have to go to the busiest, newest, or most expensive place in town, just because it is Valentine’s Day.

Evening Romance

Everyone agrees that waiting until after the night has wound down to exchange gifts is a great way to keep her excited throughout the night. When you get back home she will be anticipating some things. Libby and Danielle say that lingerie should certainly be on that list of “some things.” “Maybe a comfortable two piece boy short and top is a good start,” says Danielle, “Or the I Love You Bag, which has panties that say those magic words in seven different languages.”

Either way she says that women love lingerie and getting her something that is sexy, flirty or fun is a good way to go.

Guys, no matter how you handle Valentine’s Day it is important to remember that it is a special day to recognize and appreciate your most meaningful relationships. Libby sums it up best as, “The best way to celebrate Valentine’s Day is expressing your love in an unexpected way. I think that’s what every girl wants.”

Adam the Tree is the Midwest’s best kept secret. Straight from the Northwoods, Adam has become not only an inspiring DJ, but also an originally creative producer. His original track selection, flawless sets and smooth blend of tribal and progressive sounds keep the body moving. Adam’s own sound has grown along with him over the years and his original tracks have an indescribable uniqueness to them that grabs your attention and doesn’t let go.

Since he first heard those pulsating beats radiating from the speakers, electronic music has become his life, his love, his obsession. Because of that rising passion Adam started DJing in 2001 and has since played hundreds of shows across the Midwest.

In 2006 Adam released this first original EP, The Seed EP This EP included five of Adam’s originally produced tracks. Since promotion began for this release he has received amazing great feedback on the EP. The first track on the album, Slow Seduction was nominated for a Madison Area Music Award in 2006 for the category of best electronic song. This same track was also added the Belladonna Records Summer Compilation Album.

2007 will prove to be a busy year for Adam the Tree. Recently married, Adam became a daddy to the “Little Tree.” This new life changed Adam’s musical career as he spends most of his free time in his newly formed studio producing track after track. Later this year he will be releasing another track on Ambersound Records. He also will be spinning at the next StudioGangsta event in Stevens Point on Saturday February 24.

This is a brief look into the life of Adam the Tree.

For any more information, music or video clips visit him at:

http://www.adamthetree.com
http://myspace.com/adamthetree

By Jack Roman

When you look through John Knappe’s book, In Between the Sheets Vol. 1, you see things exactly for what they are. You get raw urban photography. There is the myriad of human experience; soul, sex, violence, love, humor, music, movement, innocence and humility. In the faces you see scenes of, hunger, reconstruction, renaissance, power and redemption. The most interesting thing, perhaps what makes it art, is that just looking at the photos, simply by examining them from wherever you are, you feel like a crucial element of the scene.

I have met John Knappe many times and the thing I remember most is that he is cool to it all. He was forthcoming about offering advice for the novice photographer, “It’s the heart that you put into the photograph that counts, not the equipment.”
With no hype at all, he’ll tell you he’s just a regular guy who will dive head first into a plate of chicken wings. He also talks about finding his roots everywhere from the streetscapes of Milwaukee, to the sun kissed states west of the Rockies, to the sweltering heat south of the Mason-Dixon Line. How does he sum up all that traveling? “I live in a culturally diverse atmosphere. I love it for the experiences I gained.”

The one thing Knappe doesn’t have a cool response to is his work. He says that what some people call simple pictures is his one true love; his addiction even. This is evident by the feverishly hand-written five page manuscript that is the answer to the questions I sent him prior to our meeting.

John Knappe is a photographer and is best summed up like his life’s work. As a truthful snapshot of all things just the way they are.

Here is John Knappe’s take on his life’s work.

Q: So you just finished up a show at Moct, and you are highlighted at CO2 right now with your work on display, plus gallery night is coming up. What do you think about all that; just doing shows and “being” John Knappe the artist?

A: “I’ve done about 20-some shows and they usually turn out pretty well. You just have to stay on top of your business when it comes to dealing with promoters and stuff. Most are pretty cool, but some are shady. I’ve been lucky to have good relationships throughout almost all of my shows. But there are a couple horror stories.”

Q: Why do you choose the people you highlight in your book? What do you look for in a subject?

A: “A lot of people will hate me for saying this, but everyday clients bring to the table a reality that trained models have lost. I enjoy the challenge. I enjoy someone who doesn’t think they always know what is best, but who can still offer ideas.”

Q: What do you love about being a photographer?

A: “I love being able to portray people as they can’t see themselves, or bringing out the things that they hide from other people. The honesty that can come through in a photo can last forever. That’s what I do this for, to make photos that people look at later and say, “You know that photo…”

Q: What is the motivation for your work?

A: “The motivation for my work comes from the reactions I get from it. When
someone is in awe from seeing a vision they didn’t think could exist, it lights me
up.”

Q: Who are your inspirations as an artist?

A: “I thumb through books of people I won’t mention. I don’t want to emulate anyone else, or look at their work long enough to subconsciously consider doing it. My real inspiration are living working small business owners who work for and
earn their respect. [They] swallow their pride to do what they love for a living.”

Q: Where do you think you fit into Milwaukee’s art scene?

A: “Not to sound like I don’t care, but be yourself and if people still like you [regardless] of what other [artists] think about you then that’s cool.”

“I feel like once I concern myself with the “arts scene” I pigeon hole myself into what others think I should be. If you do what you want, how you want, and people like it, you will persevere through a scene because you will be able to create work that people like. Artists are disposable. People want what they want, and they hire you or buy your work because it is what they want.”

Q: What about your education. Did you go to school for photography?

A: “I declined a scholarship. I have immersed myself in this art for 13 years. I pretty much breathe it. Love what you do, learn what you can and fine tune it. Ambition is better than any school.”

Q: Do you feel like you are an influence on people?

A: “I feel like once a person looks at himself like an influence he begins to decline. I feel honored to be here and to have turned a lot of people on to photography, but I can’t be arrogant to say that I am some kind of a huge influence, especially on the world.”

Q: Any big plans on the horizon.

A: “Always. I just don’t talk about them.”

You can talk to Knappe himself and see his work on display at CO2 Ultralounge.

http://www.myspace.com/johnknappedotcom

by Jack Roman

To help make you a legend for throwing your first New Year’s Eve cocktail party, here is a “professional” board of experts. The combined knowledge here includes Jack, with 13 years specializing in event planning and hosting, Dan who has spent over 10 years preparing some of the best dishes at top restaurants, and a 23 year old harlot, Kristen, who loves to party and has the photos to prove it. The only way to blow this shindig is if you don’t make it to the club by 12 midnight; but you can handle that on your own, right?

The Drinks

As a group we decided that any legendary party is a classy party, so you will want to focus on the basics. Get a couple of premium vodkas, like Kettle One, Stolichnaya or Grey Goose. A premium gin, like Bombay goes very well with New Year’s cheer. And lastly, one highly coveted bottle of Scotch, something like the Glenmorangie. There are better scotches out there, but this one is bad enough for everyone to like.

If you’re expecting wine drinkers, you should have at least one bottle of Fat Bastard Red, a Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio and several bottles of Martini and Rossi champagne on hand. If you expect Diddy or Fiddy Cent to show up, you will have to drop the $275 on the Louis Roederer Cristal from East Point Pick n’ Save. However, all your going to find in Milwaukee is 1998-2000, the ones preferred by your average hip-hop mogul date back to 1997 and 1995, so expect some disappointment there.

When it comes to mixers, rely heavily on anything that will turn your drink some shade of rose. Namely, cranberry juice. Remember the Cosmopolitan, with the help of four chics from New York, kick started the American martini revolution. Also keep tonic, pineapple juice, club soda, cola and a selection of Press Cocktail Sodas on hand. These will make your guests think that you’ve done this before. Have OJ and white cranberry juice cocktail out of the refrigerator and in a decanter and they’ll know you’re a pro.

The Food

If you’re going to liquor them up in a classy way you have to keep them fed in the same manner. Chef Dan says to ditch the potluck idea, and go over to Metro Mart. “For 10-15 people invest a Grant, $50 for you people who don’t see them too often, in a cheese and vegetable platter, sausage platter and shrimp cocktail platter. Now wrench another fifty out of your wallet and drop it on chicken satay skewers, a vegetarian pasta salad, some cheesy spinach dip and French bread.” These are the basics and really all you need to have.

Want to make it special? Dan says to get couple pounds of beef tenderloin, some charcoal and some cooking skills. Then prepare a spread of medium-rare grilled filet topped with Gruyere cheese and a balsamic reduction dipping sauce. Serve them cut into small squares with beef under cheese and use black plastic picks stuck through them as the handle. “You just know these wont last long, but it’s only the late comers who will suffer the consequence.” Which ever way you go with food, don’t forget a fresh holiday cake, German chocolate should suffice.

The Scene

“Women love parties. Men just love to drink.” Keep that in mind, Kristen says, when you start inviting people. “You want to tilt the percentages toward more ladies than men and at least as many singles as couples. This will ensure every one has fun and that they keep telling stories about your party throughout the year.”

We all agreed on a dress code. After all, it is New Year’s Eve! While prom dresses should have been burned years ago, an evening dress for ladies and a button down, clean shoes, slacks and a tie for guys and creates a good look for those late night photos. Otherwise, don the latest in fashion forward gear including a velvet jacket, aviator sunglasses at night, and/or 80’s inspired garb.

Kristen also says to focus on decoration. “If it’s a New Year’s party, make it festive; get the black plates and plastic cocktail glasses; some flowers and make creative use of tinsel. And to round it out, low lights and good music.” Also, make sure you have plenty of disposable cameras laying around, in addition to the host’s digital camera. There’s no better invite for next years party then some photographic reminders of the debauchery of the previous year’s event.

-Jack Roman

Make no mistake about it - Mel Gibson’s Apocalypto is a snuff flick from beginning to end. The movie begins with the brutal hunt and slaying of a wild pig and continues the blood letting up until the very end. With that said, Mel Gibson does a great job, just as he did with Passion of the Christ, of creating realistic cinema about ancient times, ancient cultures and distant lands. No one does it better.

Mel Gibsons fixation with over-the-top expressions of brutality are no less evident in this film as they were in The Passion but just as in The Passion the entire story comes off entirely realistic and believable. Truth be told, Mel probably overplays the ‘joy’ and underplays the brutality, but I’m not sure most will appreciate his efforts to make the story palatable.

Fundamentally Apocalypto is the best “Rocky” movie you will ever see. Its the story of a small tribe of indigenous south americans who are over-run by a “modern”, organized military machine (remind you of any one?) and then sold into slavery and sacraficed at the alter.

Essentially one character (our hero/Jesus figure) after being injured, manages to make it into the forest where a hunting party chases him on his way back to help his wife and child who he has hidden. This is where the story gets interesting but unfortunately its only in the last 3rd of the movie do things go from chillingly grotesque to exciting.

I give this movie 3 out of 4 stars - mainly because Mel does such a great job of recreating a setting and his hero is truly admirable. There are lots of socio-political overtones in this movie that are valid even today but I’m sure I will have to see it one or two more times to grasp them all.

If you have a stomach for Mel Gibsons sense of reality and mythology then I think you will find this movie engaging and entertaining. If you are, however, looking for a pleasant Saturday afternoon at the movies, you may want to choose something different.

Read Slate’s Review Here:

http://www.slate.com/id/2155107/fr/rss/

Put Some Style on Your Christmas Wish List

With just a few weeks to go before Christmas I’m sure you are finding yourself dressing up more and more for the many Holiday parties and family events going on. To add to the shopping time crunch, it’s coming down to the wire in terms of last minutes gifts.

With a mega mall on the west side and newly constructed outdoor behemoth on the east there is certainly no shortage of places to blow your cash on a gift of fashion for yourself or others. However the real question is just how special a fashion gift are you looking for?

The Fashion Experience

To help you answer that question, I spent some quality time with Chris Corley, general manager, of MP/Two Urban Fashion Experience on North Jefferson Street. MP/Two specializes in men’s fine fashions, sportwear, accessories and other fashion forward garments for men and women.

If you are even thinking about comparing mall stores to a boutique like MP/Two, STOP! Chris will tell you that the distinctive selection, quality, experience and relationship you build at a boutique is more valuable than what you can get at a mall. “I have a list of clients that includes NBA players, bartenders and office workers alike and they all love it here,” says Chris. “We have fashion for everybody, and a great attitude about helping people express their personal style.”

When it comes to looking good for Holiday events, MP/Two is the place to go. Chris has spent over 10 years honing his fashion skills as a personal shopper and store manager in the upscale department stores and fashion boutiques of Minneapolis. His love for dressing people is evident. I watch in amazement as he whips together outfits that go from the front of the office to back of the club as quick as you can punch the clock. Being well dressed, Chris says, is in the details. Not only do you need the jeans, shirt, blazer and the shoes, but he points out that the belt, socks and tie are what really make the clothes match the man.

Chris’s skills don’t stop there. He is not only a professional in men’s wear, but he outfits Milwaukee’s beautiful ladies as well. MP/Two offers a full line of women’s wear. Boasting designer brands like 575, Splendid, Parasuco and Joe’s Jeans in the women’s department, MP/Two leaves no curve unfitted or nape un-collared. “Women’s clothes is where fashion really shines,” says Chris. “We have custom selections of top brands that really accentuate a woman’s features. And really, the clothes are all about accenting what your body already does well.”

What’s Hot This Season

So we know Chris Corley is the man to see, so let’s talk about some must-haves and great gifts for the holiday season.

The number one hot thing right now for ladies, according to Chris, is the 80’s inspired “cigarette jean.” This is a pair of jeans that are cut very skinny and has a straight leg. To keep the 80’s look going, Chris says to pair them with a long blouse, a waist belt and some heels. “Don’t be afraid of color, right now reds, yellows, bright blues, stripes and light fade denims are in, even though it is winter.”

For men, good fitting denim is always in. Chris says put your man in a good pair of jeans and a classic striped shirt. And then make him tuck it in. If you’re going for a more sophisticated look, then go with slacks, brown or black, a cashmere V-neck with shirt and tie underneath. Good Looking, clean shoes are the key to sophistication. This is a very good look for those semi formal office parties and family dinners.

Some other hot items for men are anything from the Jhane Barnes’ collection. “Jhane’s clothes are so funky and cool,” says Chris, “They really embody what urban fashion is.” Another good item is a new wallet. Get him to ditch that thick tri-fold card and cash holder for something a little more avantguard. The Leather Island brand is retro Rock & Roll and offers paper-thin no fold wallets that are hand designed by Bill Lavin. All Leather Island items feature one of a kind colorful artistic impressions.

Also, Chris says, consider an embroidered fitted Tee as a gift. “This is the kind of item a guy who wants to be noticed will wear. It is very much what the beautiful people want,” he says jokingly. MP/Two carries an embroidered long sleeve Tee from Dulce Leche that makes you never want to wear anything else.

Gifts for Others

To round out your gift shopping needs, MP/Two also has a wide selection of cufflinks, ties, bow ties, socks, belts, watches and sunglasses all starting around $50. There is even an awesome all-inclusive shaving kit for men called About Face. It comes in a military inspired carrying case and it rings in under $50.

In my opinion, one of the best items in the store is the Canali cologne. It smells like a blend of perfection and sexy.

50 ml’s is $45 and 100ml’s goes for $60, both are almost a five-finger-discount type deal when it comes to cologne prices these days.

Stop into MP/Two and see Chris anytime, he is a joy to talk to and when you leave the store you will be looking good. Ladies (and single guys) make sure you check out MP/Two’s Ladies Night on December 15 from 5-10pm, ladies will receive 15% off your purchases and in true downtown style, there are cocktails available for guests 21 and over. The night also features the Uneek Jewelry collection.

MP/Two
825 N. Jefferson Street
http://www.myspace.com/mptwoexperience

Written by Jack Roman

Complete Photo Gallery

It was a freezing cold night on December 2^nd as my wife and I walked into the Mad Planet in Milwaukee. The headliner was Marcella, a group we’d seen before and enjoyed greatly. I hadn’t checked on the openers to find out what to expect, but I’m glad I didn’t, because my expectations were completely blown away.

The night started with an incredible band from Appleton called Sunday Flood. This band is heavy, passionate, and intense. Sunday Flood has the rhythmic complexity of Tool, with odd time signatures and intricate drumming, but with a melodic sound all their own. From the very first song, I was hooked. My foot was tapping, my head was bopping, and my lips were smiling. Each member brought incredible talent and voice to the band. The singer part sang and part screamed, giving emotional intensity to the already physically intense riffs. The bass player had the gain cranked, while still retaining both melodic and rhythmic importance in the band. The guitars drove the songs forward in a roller-coaster ride of dynamic hard rock.

Find out More About Sunday Flood and Listen to Tracks at:

http://myspace.com/sundayflood

The second band was another one for complex musical tastes. Self-Evident, from Minneapolis, was as intense and rhythmically complicated as Sunday Flood, but in a different way. As a jazz enthusiast, I can always spot a metal band that has dabbled in the genre, and Self-Evident definitely has a jazz flair to their music. They use intricate rhythms and staccato riffs filled with full jazz chords and dissonance that would get Thelonious Monk bopping his head and spinning, while still retaining a rock and roll edge to the music, making the band completely unique and original.

Find out More about Self Evident and Listen to Tracks at:

http://myspace.com/selfevident
http://www.self-evident.net

The final band was Marcella, which rounded out the evening very nicely, giving us a laid back sound that felt calming at the end of the night. Marcella is a female fronted rock group with dynamic tunes and tight musicianship. The singer/pianist gives the music a sultry, playful edge that commands the attention of the audience, while the guitarist on the other side of the stage dabbles in different effects and ways of playing that gives the music more atmosphere and modernity. The rhythm section creates a swinging bluesy feel that lures in everyone else who hasn’t already succumbed to the music.

This was one of the best local concerts I’ve been to in quite a while. It was one of those rare nights where each band left me wanting more. You can check out all three bands on their Myspace pages.

Find out More About Marcella and Listen to Tracks at:

http://www.myspace.com/marcellamusic
http://www.marcellamusic.com

Written by Andy Zupke
http://www.myspace.com/bigandybassplayer

Monsoon’s rich and detailed atmosphere is what my guests and I first noticed when we stepped inside. It is a bit surprising to find a place like Monsoon in the Cathedral Square area. Sure there is some ethnic flavor nearby but most tend to have an ‘Americana’ feel to them. Not Monsoon. I immediately felt like I was transported to a different country and it was a nice sensation.

The next thing I noticed was the attention to detail which I find is often overlooked in many other places I frequent. The wall hangings, the statues and wood all add to the deep, rich, Asian atmosphere.

My guests and I tried several delicious appetizers including the Chicken Lettuce Wrap ($8) and the Calimari ($9) and we weren’t left disappointed. The Chicken Lettuce Wrap immediately became my favorite. It’s marinated in a sweet hoisan sauce and is presented with leaves from a head of lettuce - I loved it and have returned since to order it again.

Calimari at many places is simply calimari. I’m sure you’ve tried it and know what I’m talking about, but at Monsoon I think you’ll find it to be a different experience. First, it’s seasoned with salt and pepper which really sets off the Calimari. It is then presented with a spicy Thai sauce that adds to an already great taste. It’s better here than anywhere else that I’ve had it. Definitely worth giving it a try.

A word of advice - The portions of the appetizers are very generous so plan your dining experience accordingly. You can surely order a few appetizers and share them among friends and feel satisfied.

Dinners range between $13 and $19. We ordered the Cashew Chicken, the Kung Pao Chicken and the Teriyaki Tenderloin (pictured below). I ordered the tenderloin to be cooked medium and that’s exactly how it came out - medium. I’m always a bit skeptical if the chef can get it right but fortunately I wasn’t let down.

My favorite dish so far is the Kung Pao Chicken which is incredibly flavorful. Monsoon’s ‘fusion’ displays itself in the sauces they use to complement each meal. Sweet, spicy, thick and rich, each of the dishes has a distinct flair to it which made the experience vastly different from standard Asia fare.

The Cashew Chicken (pictured below) came off a bit spicy for my taste and I think in the future I will ask them to tone this dish down a bit.

The last item we tasted was the Crunchy Tuna Roll. Sushi? Chinese? Asian? I was surprised to see an extensive maki menu at Monsoon and wanted to give it a try. The maki didnt arrive with soy, wasabi, and ginger as I would have preferred but upon request they promptly delivered my training wheels and the sushi rivaled even the most focused of sushi establishments. The only unfortunate part of the experience was that by this time I was so incredibly stuffed that I pretty much had to go home and sleep it off.

I don’t recommend gorging yourself the way my party did, however, if you intend to go out and eat some great food with a tasty pizazz I highly recommend the food and the atmosphere at Monsoon.

– Edit –

Since the writing of this review the Cathedral Square location has been closed but is still serving at their Brookfield location:

BROOKFIELD, WI
17800 W. Bluemound Road
Phone: 262-782-SAKE Fax: 262-782-8844 (Wok-side)
Located between Calhoun Road & Brookfield Road.
Sunday - Thursday: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm
Friday - Saturday: 11:00 am - 11:00 pm