Linda Falkenstein
The former Stamm House Restaurant is located at 6625 Century Ave. in Middleton.
Weary Traveler bartender Brian Hamilton and his wife, Alicia, plan on opening a bistro in the former Stamm House Restaurant space, 6625 Century Ave. in Middleton. Previously, it had been reported that the two were working on a concept on Williamson Street headed for a building in front of the Broom Street Theater.
Hamilton says they are partnering with Troy Rost, the same landlord they were working with on Williamson, for the new venture. "We were going to be responsible for the build-out at the Williamson space," explains Hamilton. "When the Stamm House became available, it presented a better opportunity. The arrangement changed accordingly."
Hamilton says Rost received approval from the Middleton Landmark Commission to remove the red paneling covering outside portions of the once-popular fish-fry destination, which is a designated Middleton landmark.
The structure, built in 1847, was originally an inn and a "provision center for the travelers of the federal military road," according to the building's landmark dedication plaque. The stonework -- local limestone -- inside of the building is also being restored. Other work includes removing layers of drop ceilings to reveal original rafters. "It is gorgeous," adds Hamilton.
The building comes with ample parking as well as room for an outdoor kitchen garden and patio. "The basement has a walk-out and it may have been part of the Underground Railroad," says Hamilton, and it may also have provided access to the nearby Pheasant Branch creek. "We're going to restore [the space] into a wine cave and chef's table."
James Beard-nominated chef Nick Johnson will be the chef at the as-yet unnamed restaurant. Johnson made his mark in Madison at the now-defunct Restaurant Magnus and 43 North, and has since been teaching at MATC as well as working with Gotham Bagels.
Hamilton says the menu will be classics with a twist, including a fish fry. "Of course, with Johnson, it will be a step up from your typical Friday fish fry," says Hamilton.
Landlord Troy Rost has decided to not pursue a restaurant at the Williamson location, and is instead restoring the building's existing apartments.
