Its been 8 months at the time of this writing since Chubby’s Cheesesteaks opens its doors on North Avenues east side but I finally got a chance to stop down and enjoy one of my favorite sandwiches.

One surprising thing about downtown Milwaukee is how few cheesesteaks are available in a city that loves to eat and specifically eat anything with cheese in it!

A couple other shops exist outside downtown proper but if you want a convenient cheesesteak for lunch or after hours Chubby’s is the sweet spot.

The menu selection is incredibly vast. Perhaps i was naive about the evolution of the Philly Cheesesteak but it was surprising to find that the cheesesteak can be delivered with steak, chicken or even vegetarian! I’m going to have to stop back and try each of those selections. As for the Philly itself at Chubby’s I found it incredibly tasty!

Red and Green Peppers, fried onions, steak and cheese all prepared at ordering time make for a warm, fresh meal. The bread was soft and tasty but held together perfectly as I chowed down my meal.

One thing you HAVE to try when you make it to Chubby’s are the fries! They are both seasoned and breaded which makes for a unique french fry experience that I have had no where else. I would put them up against Saz’s fries any day.

Like all of my favorite places to frequent, Chubby’s is locally owned and operated. This isn’t terribly suprising in downtown Milwaukee, however this kind of fast, tasty food being conceived and delivered by long time Milwaukeeans adds extra meaning to the experience.

They deliver and they’re open late. Theres no reason not to get a tasty meal at Chubby’s Cheesesteak.

Chubby’s Cheesesteaks
2232 N. Oakland Avenue
Milwaukee, WI
414.287.9999
http://www.chubbyscheesesteaks.com

Join our Cheesesteak Discussion Thread:
http://www.themilwaukeescene.com/forum/index.php?topic=7589.0

Bootleggers, located at 1023 N. Old World 3rd St, is the latest entrant to the up and coming Old World 3rd Street scene. Long a staple for destinations such as Buck Bradley’s, Have a Nice Day Cafe, Buckhead Saloon and Cafe Vecchio Mondo; the recent addition of Bootleggers and its neighbor Tutto are sure to continue to add to the excitement of the street.

Two floors of indoor entertainment in addition to a third rooftop floor make for a great space to tip a few beers or throw massive weekend parties. Amongst the vast amount of party space and flat screen TV’s Bottleggers features a DJ Booth, a stage for live acts, pool tables, dart boards and sofa lounges - all certain to provide a wide array of entertainment possibilities.

Without much fan fare Bootleggers showcased its capabilities on the weekend of Riversplash 2008 treating customers to a friendly and social staff that seemed willing to socialize and accommodate our requests for tall drinks, information and photographs.

A beautifully designed space, Bootleggers is sure to please a wide audience so be sure to stop by and hang out.

Bootleggers
1023 N. Old World 3rd St
http://bootleggersmke.com/
http://www.myspace.com/bootleggersmke

With the smell of paint still fresh in the air Apartment 720 became the latest nightlife destination to add itself to Milwaukee’s lineup. Deep black walls with paisley white accents provide the backdrop for the high contrast club. One part night club, one part underground cellar, the multipurpose venue seems to be positioned to invite a wide variety of nightlife entertainment. If the acts lined up to christen the venue are any indication I’m sure that is exactly what is ahead.

DJ Delicious opened the night followed by guests of honor Dave Navarro and DJ Scribble. Exciting, high energy sets provided an intense focal point for the evening.

Staff wore traditional black outfits along with face paint. It wasnt clear (to me) what the costumes and makeup were supposed to represent but it certainly added to the special event feeling of the night.

Its difficult to tell from the pictures but one thing that really struck me besides the wall design was the excellent lighting. Very design oriented and creative - it added a great deal to the ambiance for me. It’s an element I think is overlooked at many venues.

Short (but strong) drinks were around $7.00 for top shelf mixers.

Be sure to check out this latest Milwaukee hot spot.

Apartment 720 is located at 720 N. Milwaukee Street between Wisconsin Avenue and Mason Street.

On the spur of a moment we decided to catch The Golden Compass on opening weekend.

I didn’t know much about the plot or premise of the movie beyond the blip or two I had seen on commercials, however being a news junkie I was aware of some of the buzz coming from some religious voices calling for followers to boycott the movie. Needless to say this only served to further pique my curiosity so I was anxious to check it out for myself.

The Golden Compass is very much a story in the vein of Harry Potter or The Lord of the Rings in the sense that the plot centers on a special child with a special destiny coupled with an epic journey. It was refreshing to see our hero cast as a girl but not a common stereotype of a girl but an actual person acting and behaving in gender neutral way.

The female actresses in this film are excellent and definitely take center stage. Both Nicole Kidman (Marisa Coulter) and Dakota Blue Richards, who plays the hero Lyra Belacqua, put completely believable performances. Again, the raw and human portrayal of Lyra was a refreshing change from the typical roles boys and girls too often play in movies.

I was skeptical of the overtures made in the news by the Catholic League and others but their concerns are certainly understandable after viewing the film. Of course as in any good versus bad epic such as Star Wars there is a group that encompasses and institutionalizes the evil. In the case of Star Wars it is the Empire and in the case of The Golden Compass it is the Magisterium where conformity and order and the spreading of doctrine are of the highest priority. It is difficult to avoid the overt similarities between The Magisterium and institutionalized religion. From their attire to their doctrine the references are too many to ignore. Modern mythologies all too many times make guarded and artistic references but it was refreshing to see this story being told unabashedly.

The final component of the film that I wish to describe are the ancillary characters that help draw the film together. The Polar Bears which you have undoubtedly seen are awesome. The characters are well placed, well conceived and useful to the plot. There are not too many names, places or people to keep track of which make the film easy to understand and follow although for some may make it a bit childish at times.

Part Epic Fantasy, part social commentary I found The Golden Compass to be a sometimes simple, easy to understand yet entertaining voyage.

We had some wonderful food at Milwaukee’s latest Turkish / Mediterranean restaurant Tulip. While the address indicates its at 117 N Jefferson St we found the entrance to actually be on the corner of Milwaukee St and Erie St in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward but it wasnt too hard to find and when we did it was worth it.

Our group decided to entertain 5 different dishes between us as well as try a sampler appetizer platter which included any 4 items.

Each of us found at least one of the appetizers to be our favorite with mine being the yogurt based dip. We also tried the hummus, the dolmeh and a spicy tomato based dip shown below. Only complaint here is the appetizers didnt arrive with bread so we had to drool for several minutes while they delivered some more bread to the table.

The atmosphere was very consistent with what my imagination was expecting to find at a Turkish restaurant. Deep woods furnished the establishment with bright windows delivering light and airy contrast. The walls were a bit sparse with ethnic artwork, however I expect that details may be filled in or altered as the establishment gets its footing. There was also a nice patio outside that is conveniently positioned right on the corner of the street for ample scenery.

Several dark leather couches surround a fireplace in the middle of the restaurant providing a cozy, relaxing feel to the establishment. A nice, unique touch in my opinion which sets a pleasant atmosphere.

We ended our evening by dining on several delicious dishes. I ordered the lamb shank which was covered in cooked eggplant and served in a dish of sweet tomatoe sauce. We also tried the spicy meatball plate, the lamb shoulder and the apricot chicken. Their specialty dish, Iskender, is pictured below and is served with a side of yogurt that brings out the many wonderful flavors in the dish.

The chicken with apricot was exceptional as well. I intend to have the two dishes pictured when I return next time.

Of course no Turkish dinner is complete without a Turkish coffee so make sure you give this strong potion a try after your done eating. Entree’s were priced between $14 and $17 for the most part. Our tab including drinks for 6 came to $149.00 without tip so that averaged about $35.00 per person with tip (and cocktails) for what we all would consider an excellent and unique meal.

For more photographs and discussion about Tulip, join us on our Discussion Boards.

Complete Photo Shoot: http://www.themilwaukeescene.com/photos/tulip-071707

Discuss: http://www.themilwaukeescene.com/forum/index.php/topic,3317.0.html

117 N Jefferson St
Milwaukee, WI 53202
(414) 273-5253

by Jack Roman

Just a little bit south of the bright lights of downtown, on K.K. near Logan Street in Bay View, there is a little shop with a big reputation. The shop is Fashion Ninja boutique, and its reputation is growing as the heart of the independent fashion design community in Milwaukee.

“If I had a microphone and the world’s attention I would tell everyone about the power to make a difference in their community by buying local products,” preaches Areka Ikeler, owner and “Sensei” of Fashion Ninja boutique and the Fashion Ninja School of Sewing and Design. Her boutique and school sells the original designs from the brightest of her 500 plus total students.

Helping to spread the message of purchasing from your local community is www.FashionFlat.com, a website that exclusively features independent fashion designers. While FashionFlat is locally based, it is also larger than just the Fashion Ninja. Currently there are five designers featured on the site which serves as a unifying force amongst fashionistas both locally and nationally. In addition to Areka, of Fashion Ninja, there is Kristy Schomburg of Bill Label, Stevie of ICEBARK and Rochelle Nason of LACKA; all four from Milwaukee, and all four sell their clothes in the Fashion Ninja store. The website also features Sue Havens of Cozy Hoods, who is a designer and artist working out of Brooklyn, NY.

The name FashionFlat is actually a play on words. “The idea behind FashionFlat.com is exactly that, a flat where independent fashion lives,” says website founder Kristy Schomburg, who spends considerable time at the Fashion Ninja store and school. Through the website the ladies offer not only their individual fashion styles, but it is also a “home” for a strong community of independent designers.

Building a community of independent designers is what the website, the school and the store are all about. Areka, who has loved fashion her entire life and studied at the Mt. Mary College Fashion Design program, says there is a real passion in her students to learn and try new things. She also stresses the importance of supporting local fashion scene. “All the small shops make Milwaukee bright. Just one shop is not fun, but 40 shops make it an interesting place to shop,” says Areka. And the designers all agree.

LACKA designer, Rochelle, says small stores and websites give her the opportunity to talk to customers about why it is important to support local business as well as showcase her work. “I think it is perfect for independent designers to get their collections out there.” Rochelle got her start in fashion from a sewing machine handed down from her late grandmother. Mostly self-taught, with a few classes from Areka, Rochelle draws inspiration for LACKA from the hours she spent honing her craft.

Another former student and designer Stevie whose label ICEBARK features hand painted garments, says she likes when someone can appreciate the sweat equity it takes to make a garment. That is why she enjoys being a part of the community. “I have always been artistic, so I decided to teach myself to do design. I design and sell things that I like, thinking that if I like it maybe other people do to.”

Bill Label designer Kristy has different motivations for getting involved in fashion. She relishes the excitement of having something truly different. “It is very fun to meet these designers from all around and it’s a great way to show off what great design work is coming out of Milwaukee.” Kristy’s fashion aspirations started when she was five. She was very good at illustrating fashion, but when it came to sewing, that was a different story. With aggressive encouragement from the Areka, Kristy continued learning and designing for fashion shows, gallery night events and photo shoots.

Although FashionFlat and the Fashion Ninja boutique and school are separate, they have a unique shared identity. The designers know that there is more than just a dollar value involved. There is the value of living in, working in and supporting a community and that is what inspires them to build a place, online and in Bay View, where fashion can truly live.

Support your local designers at:
www.FashionFlat.com
www.FashionNinja.com

By Andy Zupke

Photography by: Jessica Turnbull

Upon walking into the BBC Upper Level on February 17^th, my wife and I were immediately greeted and hugged by Jayme Dawicki, who thanked us for coming, which showed us a gratitude and appreciation that is sadly uncommon among musicians.

The night started out with a folk-rock group from Madison called The Sharp and Harkins Band. It’s hard to say anything about this band, as they seemed to be “just there”. None of the band members really seemed to be enjoying performing their music, especially the bass player who kept playing octaves as if he’d recently discovered them. The band didn’t get into the music until they started playing covers. A Johnny Cash tune got a lethargic audience somewhat worked-up enough to be ready for the next band.

Jayme Dawicki Band went on next. Plagued by technical problems, the show threatened to go down-hill quickly. Luckily, Jayme Dawicki and her accompanists are true performers, and the show went on with the fun and friendly atmosphere that they’re known for. Jayme’s compositions are varied and interesting, each song changing feel and mood. Her lyrics are sometimes fun and playful, sometimes wistful. She shows influences from the great female storytellers like Joni Mitchell and Joan Baez, especially in songs like, “Jokin’ Joe, Miss Kitty, and Me” and “72 and ½ Toyota Truck”.

Her accompanists- Jordan Roepke, Dylan Brown, and Jeff Brueggeman- all shined through the set. Jordan, a mere 20 years old, is one of the most impressive guitar players in this city, and any band would be lucky to have him. The Jayme Dawicki Band creates a welcoming environment that is sure to keep the listeners coming.

The final band was Neverstatic, a reinvigorated band with a new line-up. They’re an acoustic-rock band that features two cello players giving the band a deep and dark ambience, although the sound guy didn’t really find a niche for them in the mix until the third song.

Jordan again shows his talents, this time on electric bass, with his fellow Downrazor bandmate Heath playing 12-string acoustic guitar. Their new singer Amanda has excellent stage presence, playful and bordering on flirty, with a voice to match. She blends with the band well, despite little slips into a style that may be too soulful (think Christina Aguilera). Neverstatic was highly entertaining and could definitely be placed in the “up and coming” category.

On our way out, Jayme Dawicki once again gave us a smile and thanked us for coming. It’s always nice to see musicians who understand the value of their fans, and how crucial it is for them to go home feeling like they’re part of something. This is the incredible value of local music. By supporting it, you can really feel like you’re supporting something unique that most people don’t know about, but you’ll feel good if a few more do because of you.

For more information on the Bands, Venue or Big Andy’s Milwaukee Music Support:

The Sharp and Harkins Band - http://www.myspace.com/harksharp
Jayme Dawicki Band - http://www.myspace.com/jaymedawicki
Neverstatic - http://www.myspace.com/neverstaticband
Upper Level - http://myspace.com/upperlevel
Big Andy - http://www.myspace.com/bigandybassplayer

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