Maureen Wallenfang
Appleton Post-Crescent
Published 11:20 p.m. UTC Jun 22, 2018
Two chefs opening the new Author’s Kitchen + Bar this weekend admit to some pre-opening jitters.
But when it’s “go time,” they know they’ll be ready.
“Once we get going, we’re in our world again,” said co-owner Josh Sickler.
He and co-owner Matias Whittingslow leased the former Il Angolo space at 201 N. Appleton St. in Appleton after Il Angolo moved to College Avenue. They toned down its bright walls with neutral beige and gray tones and abstract art. Tablecloths are gone in favor of casual, rustic wooden tables. Vintage books are centerpieces, in keeping with the name.
They’re not actually authors, but liked the name and figured it was appropriate as they write their own story.
Here, while they’re both veteran chefs, they’re also first-time restaurant owners. They’ve invested time and all of their personal savings in the place. They know they’ll sink or swim based on their own efforts.
“A lot we have to figure out as we go,” said Whittingslow. “The food might take a little longer for the first few weeks as we learn the kitchen.”
“You have to break a few eggs before you make a perfect omelet,” said Sickler.
This weekend, the restaurant opens to the public with Saturday and Sunday brunch. Starting Tuesday, it begins its dinner service.
Before it opened, the restaurant hosted a private party.
“The food was delicious,” posted event organizer, Meg Edgin, on Author’s Facebook page. “Empanadas and shrimp are definite must haves. The staff was attentive and went above and beyond to make sure our guests had a great time. Cannot wait to try the brunch and hang out in the lounge for happy hour.”
The restaurant hired more than a dozen employees, most of whom had worked with the two chefs in the past.
“One guy came to the door and said ‘I want to work with you guys.’ He didn’t ask how much we were going to pay,” said Whittingslow.
Because they’re self-financed, they’ve been careful to research and compare prices. They found out, for example, that a food supplier charged $15 for a dozen avocados, but Meijer had them two for a dollar. Until they can spring for a new one, the large table that seats eight in the back is from Whittingslow’s own dining room.
Sicker said they tried to hit the “middle ground” with prices. Brunch omelets, French toast, eggs benedict and huevos rancheros run $9 to $14. Salads are $11 to $12. Pastas made from scratch go $15 to $16. Meat and seafood entrees average $18 to $24, with a few items higher, like the tenderloin. The restaurant has a beer and wine license. See menus at authorskitchenandbar.com.
More info: Facebook or 920-358-7207. Hours: Brunch served 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday; dinner served 4 to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 4 to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Reservations are not taken.
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