Executive Chef David Anthony Knepper, a native Milwaukeean, has returned to Milwaukee to join Riverwalk Bistro, 223 N. Water St.

A graduate of Milwaukee Area Technical College with an associate degree in Culinary Arts Knepper has worked at Marquette University as the chef for men's and women's basketball, Albanese's, and Camille's in Cedarburg.

"I got my start in the food business when I was 14," Knepper said. "I worked at a friend of the family's restaurant called Klemmer's Williamsburg Inn. They showed me the way of the dishwasher -- the foundation of any successful restaurant. Nothing happens in the biz with out a good dishwasher."

After graduation, Knepper moved Arizona for a few years to get some hardcore restaurant training and experience by opening a high-end custard and burger restaurant called Scouts. After years in the heat, Knepper decided to move back home to be closer to his family.

"I really am impressed how Milwaukee has become the 'New Food Mecca' for the Midwest. I love the all the action going on at the Milwaukee Public Market where I get my fresh fish from St. Paul Fish Co. and bread from Piacentine's Bread Co. I feel very blessed as a Chef to have such fresh foodstuffs two blocks away from Riverwalk Bistro."

As a youngster, Knepper's parents created The Milwaukee Gourmet Club, where couples would gather once a month and share the food of a specific region. Today, he's eager to begin sharing his creations and experience with Milwaukee diners.

"I can't wait to start my new fall menu which right now I want to focus on 'high end peasant food' or some like to say 'hip comfort food.' The region I want to focus on is the Mediterranean, which includes an ever-expanding array of countries for its variety of whole foods, spices and basic preparations. Some say one of the healthiest diets known because their use of fresh fish, nuts, dried fruits and olive oil," Knepper said.

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