I'd imagine that Wednesday evening isn't the night most Milwaukeeans hit the bars, even in thirsty Bay View. But if I didn't know better, I would've thought last night was a Saturday at the grand opening of Sugar Maple, 441 E. Lincoln Ave.

I dropped in last night after bowling, and despite the fact that the sign was still unlit, I recognized tons of people at the impressively crowded bar's first night. I knew at least 50 percent of the people there by face, and I think I talked to a dozen people I knew by name -- who weren't even there together.

Think about that. More than 12 people at a bar on a Wednesday night, not connected, that you know well enough to strike up a conversation. That strikes me as pretty cool. From business owners to bar flies, from bartenders to musicians, I felt like Bay View came out in force to support Bruno Johnson's new endeavor.

I also ran into Mike Sherwood, the guy who designed the bar. He was really beaming, and he had every right to be, since his work was very impressive. I thought the lighting was a little bright, and while the non-smoking policy was great, it still smelled like paint -- but considering I was in the bar two weeks ago to interview Bruno, the place has come a long way very quickly. It will surely find its legs in months to come.

Opening a new bar with 60 taps of microbrew, then filling it with tons of neighbors on its first night is an impressive feat. Congratulations, Bruno. I look forward to dropping in again soon.