restaurant of the month - february 2010

Dream Dance Steak meets highest expectations

MILWAUKEE’S Potawatomi Bingo Casino tells visitors the fare at its fine dining restaurant “features delicious, bold flavors and glorious regional ingredients, proudly inspired by the culinary history and traditions of a Wisconsin steakhouse.”

Surprisingly, the description is an understatement.

Under Chef Jason Gorman, Dream Dance Steak has emerged as one of the nation’s leading restaurants, earning four-star, four-diamond and awards of excellence from all corners of the culinary world.

Opened in December 2000 on the casino’s second floor, Dream Dance moved in 2008 into a larger location on the first floor of the Casino.

Renamed Dream Dance Steak during the summer of 2009, the restaurant remains in the forefront of dining trends, while maintaining the features that make it unique:

• The restaurant was among the first to feature the best of Wisconsin and Midwestern farms. The amiable Gorman, who enjoys reading old Wisconsin cookbooks, creates what he calls “New Wisconsin Cuisine,” featuring unique dishes like “Lobsterwurst,” Alaskan King Crab Golabki, Strauss Veal Bierochen and Sprecher Root Beer Venison.

• Dream Dance was one of the first restaurants in the state to introduce a retail-priced wine list, offering more than 750 wines. Bottles from throughout the world are now affordable for more than special occasions.

• Dream Dance Steak’s menu now emphasizes renewable, sustainable foods, an important consideration at a time when many delicacies are becoming harder to find.

Gorman, who likes “comfort food” as much as gourmet preparations, is well aware of the difficult economy and its effect on dining habits. His three-course Valentine’s Menu, available Feb. 12, 13 and 14, offers three courses, with the choice of entrée determining the price point ($50, $60 or $75). Dream Dance Steak also regularly offers economically priced three-course specials related to events at the Casino, as well as shared plates and small-plate selections.

The service and the décor of Dream Dance Steak are equal to the cuisine. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable (without being pompous) and courteously attentive—never interrupting conversations or the enjoyment of the dining experience. The décor of soft beiges, taupes and browns is elegant, with an oval main dining room that features upholstered banquettes as well as tables.

The bar area is set off from the dining room, appealing to customers who just want to stop in for a drink, a glass of wine or dessert. In addition, the new layout of Dream Dance Steak includes a private dining room and an area that can be used for large parties.

For a spontaneous evening out, romantic dinner for two or unforgettable special event, Dream Dance Steak is always a winning choice!

Dream Dance Steak is open from 5-9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 5-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.