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| 7/9/2010 3:08:00 PM | Email this article • Print this article |
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| Hundreds flocked to the newly-opened Ryan Braun’s Tavern and Grill in Lake Geneva June 24, when the Milwaukee Brewers’ left-fielder, dubbed “The Hebrew Hammer,” made an appearance at the restaurant’s grand-opening to greet guests and sign autographs. (Vanessa Lenz photo) |
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Ryan Braun stops in at new Lake Geneva eatery
VANESSA LENZ
East Troy Times Editor
A lucky few Milwaukee Brewers' fans got a chance to meet Ryan Braun in Lake Geneva June 24 at opening day of the second restaurant in Southeastern Wisconsin bearing the famed left-fielder's name.
Owner Tom Romano unveiled Ryan Braun's Tavern and Grill at the former Cactus Club restaurant, located at 430 N. Broad St., at the grand opening event. The venue, which seats 270 people, will feature Italian-American cuisine.
For Romano, who grew up in Lake Geneva, the business is a return to his roots.
Romano bought the facility in 2006 and ran the Cactus Club until July of 2008. He also owns other restaurants in Wisconsin and Illinois, including the Sly Fox and several Dairy Queens, according to Kris Horgan, PR/ business manager for Ryan Braun's Tavern and Grill.
Horgan said the 100-year old building underwent a big renovation since it closed.
She described the new look as "casual with a touch of sophistication." Interior Drama of Lake Geneva, designed the restaurant "to appeal to all of the senses," said Horgan.
Romano initially planned to lease the building to two investors who were looking to open a Ryan Braun restaurant, according to Horgan. She said they decided to move the operation to Milwaukee at the last minute. This prompted Romano to seek a licensing agreement for his own restaurant using the celebrity's name, under the business LG Hospitality Group.
Horgan said they strongly believed the business should carry on in Lake Geneva so they flew to California and met with Braun and his agent Nez Balelo to negotiate an agreement.
"Ryan chose this location as he often visits Lake Geneva in his off time," said Horgan. "He has truly embraced Wisconsin and all our great state has to offer."
Horgan said Braun, 26, has played an active role as an investor in the business. She said he was involved in developing the menu, image, as well as interior design of the restaurant.
The space features a wood burning oven, three season outdoor seating area, all natural wood throughout, and the Ryan Braun room, which can be rented out for private parties.
"He's more than just a one dimensional baseball player and Wisconsin is home away from home," said Horgan of the California native.
The Milwaukee slugger is also involved in several other businesses.
Braun has interest in Ryan Braun's Waterfront, which opened April 5 at 102 N. Water St. in Milwaukee's Third Ward. He also has invested in T-shirt line, Remetree, and endorses a protein drink.
Horgan said the community has been very supportive of their efforts.
"We've had an incredibly positive response. Lake Geneva and the surrounding area is thrilled to have the all-star hitter open a business in their beautiful community," she said. "We hope that it'll mean longevity for the business."
She said the menu features "common dishes with a twist" such as crab cakes, beef short rib Osso-Bucco, Insalata Caprese and Black and Blue Filet with most entrees ranging from $12-18.
For more information, call (262) 248-0888 or visit ryanbraunstavernandgrill.com.
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