restaurant of the month - may 2010

New look on Old World 3rd

THE RED ACCORDION PUB & EATERY

CONVENIENTLY LOCATED at 1137 N. Old World 3rd St. in one of Milwaukee’s favorite downtown entertainment areas, the Red Accordion offers two distinct dining areas and a small-plate menu that is sure to please.

The front bar is a casual spot to enjoy a drink, keep track of your favorite team on small screens in booths or flat screen TVs over the bar.

Venture back beyond the open kitchen and find a spacious dining room featuring high ceilings, cozy banquette seating and a sophisticated ambience.

Another seating option at The Red Accordion are the private booths in both the bar area and the hallway between the two sections. The booths seat four and offer individual TV screens with private remote controls. There also are tables in the front window area, designed for prime people watching.

Warm, brick red painted walls link the various spaces. A fun touch are the antique red accordions on display in the bar area.

Owner Russ Davis explains that this historic building originally housed a musical instrument business. Locals remember renting and buying instruments, as well taking music lessons there. Even KEY Milwaukee’s Roger Stafford, like many parents, consecutively rented (and returned) instruments for his children’s short-lived musical “careers.”

Restaurateur Davis’s own grandfather purchased a number of accordions at the site, making “The Red Accordion” name a natural fit.

Frequent visitors to Milwaukee will recognize the location as the former Café Vecchio Mondo. When Davis re-launched the restaurant, he designed a venue that welcomes both those looking for a quick bite and a beer as well as those seeking a leisurely evening on the town. His new “small plates” menu fits both audiences as well.

Diners can choose from meat, seafood and veggie offerings, all less than $10. Included is a “slider” section, with creative versions of everybody’s favorite. Three to an order, the sliders also include a generous portion of hand-cut French fries. We loved the Cajun Chicken edition, with provolone cheese, chipotle sauce, fried onions and roasted red peppers – luscious AND filling. Other options include the “classic,” Reuben, brat patty, ground lamb and spicy bean.

Other small-plate choices are unique, but the knowledgeable staff helps with recommendations. Possibilities include spicy veggie spring rolls, seared scallops topped with baked crab or braised short ribs smothered in BBQ sauce over beer cheese tortellini. Desserts provide a sweet ending to your visit.

The private back dining area is the perfect location for a party. The Red Accordion is open daily for lunch and dinner, and until bar close. For more information about The Red Accordion or other locations operated by Davis, phone 414-273-5700 or visit www.theredaccordion.com.