Morel in Milwaukee, Wisconsin is a modern American, farm-to-table restaurant dedicated to source consciousness, drawing inspiration from Chef Jonathan Manyo’s Wisconsin roots.
Unique Aspects and History
- Commitment to Local Sourcing: What makes Morel unique is its dedication to using locally grown, raised, and produced food. For five years, the restaurant focused on a menu comprised of nearly 100% Wisconsin-sourced ingredients. In the fall of 2019, the menu expanded to include special offerings from across the country, such as fresh seafood, to broaden the experience while maintaining a passion for humanely sourced ingredients.
- The Name and Philosophy: The name “Morel” refers to the wild morel mushroom, which marks the start of a new growing season and is a reward for those who forage in Wisconsin woods. Chef Manyo enjoys the “adventure of finding and preparing” locally sourced food, mirroring the hunt for morels.
- Atmosphere and Ambiance: Described as having a rustic charm and being romantic, the space features a farmhouse-repurposed, open-concept design with Edison bulbs and wood accents. A unique feature is that many patrons have a view of the open kitchen, offering a “rings-side view” of the chefs at work. The restaurant also features a “cute little outdoor patio” with sustainable green infrastructure.
- Location: Morel is located in Milwaukee’s Walker’s Point neighborhood.
Menu Highlights
Morel’s menu is seasonal and changes based on local availability, exploring natural flavors, colors, and textures. Highlight items that have been featured include:
- Boards: Charcuterie Board, Cheese Board, and a 1/2 & 1/2 Board (two cheeses and two charcuterie).
- Starters: Smoked Pork Belly with apple butter, glazed parsnip, and pork jus; Lamb Carpaccio; House Smoked Ham with short dough biscuit; and Herbed Flat Bread with burrata, heirloom tomato, and balsamic vinegar.
- Mains: Rabbit Ragout with pappardelle; Pork Shoulder with chorizo, haricot verts, and mashed potato; Beef Cheek with bacon and celery root; Hanger Steak with buttermilk blue cheese butter and frites; and Ricotta Cavatelli.
- Desserts: Cherry Goat Cheese Cheesecake and Chocolate Chip Cookie Sandwich with Bourbon Ice Cream.
Significant Events
- Morel Mushroom Dinner: The restaurant is known for its annual Morel Mushroom Dinner. While one source mentions a similar dinner at a different Bartolotta restaurant, the Wisconsin Mycological Society has advertised an event specifically at Morel Restaurant in the past.
- MMSD Green Luminary® Award: Morel was recognized for its sustainable food patio and commitment to water-conscious practices, which includes native plantings, large rain barrels for irrigation, and porous pavers that direct runoff to an underground cistern. This recognition highlights the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability beyond its food sourcing.
Customer Feedback
Customer feedback often praises the restaurant for the quality of the food and the ambiance:
- The dining experience has been described as a “gem of a space” with vibrant conversation and low lighting.
- The food is noted as being “thoughtfully composed and full flavored,” with dishes like pheasant terrine, duck confit, and sautéed mushrooms over polenta being highlighted.
- The waitstaff is described as having “just the right touch of friendliness and distance.”
- Chef Manyo is noted for excelling “both as a culinarian and in sourcing freshly grown, seasonal ingredients.”
- The atmosphere is often cited as a perfect spot for a date night.
Contact Information and Links
- Address: 430 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI 53204, United States
- Phone Number: +1 414-897-0747
- Website:
https://morelmke.com/
