The evolution of Milwaukee’s East Side – particularly North Avenue and surrounding streets – is a torrid topic these days. From Von Trier announcing a change and then denouncing the change to the addition of many new restaurants and zero new straight-up bars, it’s not surprising that The Eastsider, 1732 E. North Ave., might morph, too.
Recently, Alex Sperry applied for a liquor license for a business named Baccanera that, if approved, will take over The Eastsider space. OnMilwaukee contacted current owner Jason Growel who says it’s a possibility ownership and concept could change, but there were a few hurdles to hop first.
Growel purchased The Eastsider – which has been a tavern since the post-Prohibition days – about a decade ago. He remodeled the space in late 2009 / early 2010.
What do you think about the developments in the North Avenue area and its diminishing bars and taverns? Ramen restaurants, indoor mini-golf and sports bars with solid pub fare – is this the right direction for the neighborhood?
Molly Snyder started writing and publishing her work at the age 10, when her community newspaper printed her poem, "The Unicorn.” Since then, she's expanded beyond the subject of mythical creatures and written in many different mediums but, nearest and dearest to her heart, thousands of articles for OnMilwaukee.
Molly is a regular contributor to FOX6 News and numerous radio stations as well as the co-host of "Dandelions: A Podcast For Women.” She's received five Milwaukee Press Club Awards, served as the Pfister Narrator and is the Wisconsin State Fair’s Celebrity Cream Puff Eating Champion of 2019.
