A new restaurant and bar is planned for the space at 8028 W. National Ave.

The space, which housed the Painted Parrot, a Caribbean themed restaurant with one of Milwaukee’s better fish fries, more recently housed Monkey’s Caribbean Grill, a Caribbean themed sports bar.

But, Caribbean isn’t the theme this time around. The spot, which will be called Jack Rabbit Slims (after the famed restaurant in the movie, "Pulp Fiction"), will feature southern and Cajun fare, along with live country rock music.

Christopher Surges, owner of Rumor Upbeat Lounge at 161 W. Pittsburgh Ave., says the restaurant – which is undergoing a full remodel – is on target for an early September grand opening.

Improvements include removal of the center wall, opening up the restaurant and eliminating the separation between bar and restaurant, as well as the addition of a stage, which can be viewed from just about anywhere in the restaurant. The bar, which has been moved to the center of the restaurant will serve as a focal point

"We really wanted to open the space up, make it accessible for everyone, including families during the day, but we’ll also have live music, DJs and dancing," says Surges. "We’re really taking our time with it, making sure that every detail is right,"

Surges says they’ll cater to sports fans with flat screen TV’s and shuttle service to games and events around town.  He also hopes to expand on the existing outdoor patio as the restaurant moves forward.

Surges has brought in Bill Deuberry, formerly of Yield Bar, to act as general manager; and Lisa Keefer, former chef and owner of Puddle Jumpers in West Allis, will head up the kitchen.

Keefer says the menu will include Puddle Jumpers’ favorites like corn bread, smoked brisket, and pulled pork. Smoked prime rib, a crowd favorite, may also be featured as a special.

The restaurant will also feature cajun specialties like boudin sausage, oyster and catfish po’ boys, etouffee, and stuffed and smoked oysters.

"Ultimately, we’ll be trying some things out and listening to what customers want and move forward from there," says Surges.

Keefer says she’s currently working with local farmers to ensure that the restaurant sources as  much farm to table product as possible. And, along with the food, service will be the name of the game at Jack Rabbit Slims.

"I’m really excited to work with Chris and his partners." she notes. "They is really into the service aspect, and that makes me happy. After all, if the service stinks at a restaurant, no one is coming back to eat."

Keefer, who is a lifetime resident of West Allis, says she’s excited about the new project.

"There are already some really nice places here [in West Allis]," she notes. "But, but we’re drawing some new blood into the neighborhood. And, on some level, we’re helping to revive the area. That feels really good."