It was August when the news broke that Chicago-based Pilot Project Brewing would be establishing a second incubator-based brewery in the space which formerly housed Milwaukee Brewing Company and Bottlehouse 42 restaurant at 1128 N. 9th St.

The project, which is aiming for a mid-November opening, is no small affair. After all, it will include a new brewhouse, tap room, event space and – over time – a fully activated outdoor beer garden and rooftop patio. But it will also include a restaurant.

In fact, in their most recent release of information, Pilot Project shared that they have partnered with Chef Tony Quartaro’s Gemma Foods to create a one-of-a-kind restaurant collaboration in the space formerly home to Bottle House 42.

Gemma Foods, which Quartaro launched during the pandemic, made a name for itself with fresh hand-made pastas and sauces, which could be ordered online for pick-up or delivery. The first Gemma pasta shop opened in January of 2022, with a stall in TimeOut Market following this summer.

But it will take a very different approach at its Milwaukee location, which will operate as a full-service restaurant featuring a menu of shareable, brewery-worthy dishes which Quataro describes as “memorable, thoughtful and bold” with a focus on flavor.

Some items diners can expect to see at the new restaurant include garlic pretzel bread served with fonduta for dipping, along with a large selection of housemade flatbreads, many of which will feature seasonal toppings.

Sandwiches are likely to include chicken parmigiana, as well as specialties like porchetta, the classic slow-roasted, rolled Italian pork roast.

"Having witnessed Pilot Project’s mission come to life over the last few years has been nothing short of inspiring,” said Quartaro, who is a family friend of Pilot Project co-owner Dan Abel.

“They champion up-and-coming brands and create opportunities for them to flourish—something they’ve now given to us.”