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

Written By Jason Gierl

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. 

Jason Gierl

With over 20 years of experience in art direction, branding, advertising design, project management, web development, and team leadership, Jason brings a creative and strategic touch to every project.


As Art Director/Head of Design for Milwaukee’s Pabst Theater Group, he helped promote thousands of national touring acts, playing a key role in shaping the city’s arts and entertainment scene. Most recently, he led design efforts for the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA), where he helped develop the branding—and played a part in securing billions in federal grants for venues hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Jason continues his work with NIVA to this day.


From designing stunning marquees for historic theaters to crafting brand identities for beloved local businesses and creating eye-catching promo art for national tours, Jason’s work blends creativity with impact.

Jason lives in Milwaukee, Wisconsin with his two small(ish) humans, beautiful wife Heather, and their two dogs Willow (Smith) and (John)Reis. He enjoys a tasty beverage, exceptional food (especially Bavarian Potato salad) and is a music enthusiast.

…and as always, Go Brewers!

https://staticeye.com
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