The Ultimate LGBTQ+ Travel Guide to Milwaukee

Written By Jason Gierl

What to Do

Semolina Pasta Making Class

You don’t have to go all the way to Italy to learn how to make great pasta—just take a class at Semolina in Milwaukee. Founded by restaurant industry veteran Petra Orlowski, whose mother is Sicilian and whose father is Mexican, the small pasta shop is adorned with a large herb garden. In addition to the handmade pasta and sauces that Orlowski makes and sells, the shop is stocked with the best imported Italian ingredients. A couple of times a month, Orlowski holds a small pasta-making class. You’ll have personal attention from a talented pasta maker as you learn how to mix, roll and shape your pasta. In the kitchen, Orlowski will walk you through making a simple puttanesca sauce before you enjoy the freshly made pasta and simple yet packed with flavor sauce.

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!

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A look at the foods and flavors of Semolina MKE