Drawing on Sicilian heritage, Semolina MKE owner makes pasta and teaches classes in Bay View

Kristine M. Kierzek Special to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Kristine M. Kierzek Special to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Just outside the entrance of Semolina MKE, 2474 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., you’re greeted by an edible herb garden featuring nasturtiums, basil and rosemary. Every item makes its way into pastas and products made in-house by owner Petra Orlowski. 

She spent years working in some of Milwaukee’s most well-known restaurants, from Sanford to Mistral and Blue’s Egg. When restaurants shut down during the pandemic, she perfected pasta recipes. Then people started asking to buy her pastas.

The Bay View native opened Semolina MKE in October 2021. Now with a reason to explore her Sicilian roots more deeply, earlier this year she visited Italy. She filled up on food, took cooking classes and visited farms and wineries producing products she carries in her shop. Every item is made or hand-picked by Orlowski, from the pastas, sauces and meatballs to marinated olives, capers, cheeses, olive oils and cannoli.