225 So. Soooooo Good!

I shared with all of you my first experience at 225 So. – Mia Famiglia and I gave it rave reviews back then.

I returned last month with some co-workers for Happy Hour and enjoyed some wine, appetizers, and flatbread. We stayed well past Happy Hour talking about everything except work (like you should) and loved that the owner kept coming over and checking on us. He even told us to throw something at him if we needed anything. I love his fun spirit and smile that I see – such joy in his business.

Last week, I introduced my friend Tiffany to 225 So. She knew the business from the Waukesha Farmer’s Market but just hadn’t had the opportunity to check it out yet. The place had a decent crowd for a Thursday night and the aroma from the kitchen was heavenly.

I walked Tiffany a bit through the menu before our server came over and explained to her what I have already tried and loved. The server then went a bit more in depth for Tiffany explaining that the chef was classically trained in Sicily and so some of the items might have a bit more spice. But also that everything on the menu except the handmade ravioli can be prepared gluten-free. This is awesome news to those that have a hard time finding restaurants that can provide this sort of catering on their menu.

We pursued a bit longer and selected a pasta entree each and I told her that we must have the bruschetta. It came out really quickly and looked scrumptious. I couldn’t wait for her to try it. The balsamic is out of this world good!

I ordered the Whole Wheat Pappardelle with braised beef, pearl onions, mushrooms, and capers in a light cream sauce. It was PHENOMENAL. I was hesitant on the capers as I haven’t been much of a fan from past experiences, but this dish pulled everything together and it was delicious. I paired it with a glass (or two) of Chianti and it took it to an even higher level.

Tiffany order the gnocchi and she loved it. Again she tried something unique and we both took home leftovers with excitement of when we get to eat it next.

We didn’t save any room for dessert, but next time we must. I have heard so much about their Tiramisu that I have to try it. We didn’t hurry out after our meal, but instead enjoyed the ambiance and chitty-chatted while finishing our drinks. It’s a very warm and inviting space. I can’t wait to go back again and definitely need to introduce my guy to this place soon!

There are so many amazing things happening for 225 So. and I hope that although it’s off the beaten path, that it becomes a local favorite for others like it is for me! They have been granted some land from the city of Waukesha for an urban garden. I don’t know much more about this at this time, but it’s going to be by the river and then they can have “extremely” local produce!

They also have a great Happy Hour from 4 – 6 on Tuesday – Thursdays. Great drink specials, 1/2 price appetizers and $2 off the flatbreads. The Duck Confit flatbread gives Bernie’s Tap Room some stiff competition. Luckily each are unique enough that I don’t have to pick a favorite! And finally, you can purchase their sauces and ravioli at the restaurant and at the Farmer’s Markets. See their recent interview on Fox 6.