Semolina MKE to bring handcrafted pasta and deli items to Bay View storefront

Written By Jason Gierl

Things are about to get even more delicious in Bay View. In addition to the flurry of recent restaurant openings, the neighborhood is on the verge of getting a dedicated pasta shop. The new business, Semolina MKE, is going to open at 2474 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., a retail space that most recently was home to Terrazas Cakes And Pastries.

Semolina MKE is owned and operated by Petra Orlowski, who has amassed a wide range of service industry experience over the last 20 years, including positions at Sanford Restaurant, Blue’s Egg in Shorewood, Puddler’s Hall, Sheridan’s Restaurant, and her current position as manager of both Avalon Theater and the theater’s adjoining Mistral Restaurant.

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