By Lori Fredrich Senior Food Writer, Dining Editor, Podcast Host Published Apr 25, 2016 at 7:45 AM

There’s a new chef on the way at Black Sheep, 216 S. 2nd St. Chef Christian Schroeder will take the reins of the Black Sheep kitchen, effective Monday, May 16.

Currently executive chef of Buckley’s Restaurant and Bar, Schroeder says he’s looking forward to sharing his talent for melding flavors from different cultures with local, seasonal ingredients.

"I love giving guests an experience they’ll remember," he says. "I’m looking forward to bringing that passion and guest experience to Black Sheep."

As Schroeder takes the reins, former Black Sheep Chef Justice Neal will be moving on to a position which will offer him more time to spend with his wife and 2-year-old daughter.

According to a release announcing the changeover, Black Sheep’s food and beverage program will not undergo major changes under Schroeder’s leadership. The emphasis will remain on local, seasonal ingredients and creative takes on traditional dishes.

An open house is planned for Wednesday, May 18 to welcome Schroeder, who will debut his first menu in June. 

"Mike [Sorge] and I couldn’t be happier to welcome Christian to our team," notes co-owner Wes Shaver. "We’ve made incredible strides in advancing Black Sheep’s programming and guest experience. We’ve worked very hard to re-connect with guests as well as introducing new ones to the restaurant. We couldn’t be more excited for this next chapter for our team and can’t wait to show Milwaukee the best Black Sheep yet!"

Black Sheep is open Monday through Saturday beginning at 4 p.m. with brunch on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Lori Fredrich Senior Food Writer, Dining Editor, Podcast Host

Lori is an avid cook whose accrual of condiments and spices is rivaled only by her cookbook collection. Her passion for the culinary industry was birthed while balancing A&W root beer mugs as a teenage carhop, fed by insatiable curiosity and fueled by the people whose stories entwine with each and every dish. She’s had the privilege of chronicling these tales via numerous media, including OnMilwaukee and in her book “Milwaukee Food.” Her work has garnered journalism awards from entities including the Milwaukee Press Club. 

When she’s not eating, photographing food, writing or recording the FoodCrush podcast, you’ll find Lori seeking out adventures with her husband Paul, traveling, cooking, reading, learning, snuggling with her cats and looking for ways to make a difference.