Grand Avenue Mall Getting Makeover, 6 New Stores Named

MILWAUKEE, WI -- New plans were unveiled to transform the former Shops of the Grand Avenue into an array of re-imagined spaces from a new food hall to new and refurbished offices. The project will re-name the downtown shopping destination "The Avenue," developers say.

Developers say the project's heart will be 3rd Street Market Hall, a meandering street-level 35,000-square-foot food hall. Spearheaded by well-known Milwaukee restaurateur, Omar Shaikh, the food hall will feature more than 20 vendors reflecting the cultural and ethnic diversity of the region.

“This is much more than just another food hall,” said Shaikh. “And I’m incredibly grateful to the owners for having the patience and guts to do this in a way deserving of this historic location.”

Six of the initial vendors were unveiled:

• Stone Creek. A pioneer craft coffee roaster founded in 1993 in Milwaukee that employs an army of coffee geeks committed to building lasting relationships with its producer-partners around the world, an ambition summarized in its “Farm to Cup” ethos.
• Milk Can. A start up concept by Milwaukee chef Kurt Fogle and the team behind Muskego’s Bass Bay Brewhouse. With Wisconsin roots the partners are linked by a common passion: Hometown classics—like burgers, cheese curds & custard reimagined and made better from scratch.
• Funky Fresh. Funky Fresh Spring Rolls are handcrafted spring rolls made with fresh and local (when available) ingredients and never deep fried but grilled in healthier oils. Founder Trueman McGee strives to bring not only delicious meals but nutritious options to his customers.
• Donut Monster. Chef Jackie Woods along with his wife Sara will open a permanent Donut Monster pop-up at 3rd Street Market Hall. Made daily from scratch with the best available ingredients, these donuts are beloved for their natural tastes of quality fruit in pursuit of the elusive “guiltless” treat.
• Char’d. The non-traditional menu is rooted in familiar Korean flavors while showcasing Chef Yosub Yoon’s remarkable creativity featuring everything from super rice bowl dishes to quick bites like Korean fried chicken wings.
• Waterford Wine & Spirits. Offering a unique curational tasting and purchasing experience, Waterford’s authoritative collection is unmatched in the region. Founder Ben Christiansen makes available the opportunity to appreciate every drop.

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