Linda Falkenstein
Greek food in Westport is coming, temporarily, from a truck.
Opening
The Breakwater, 6308 Metropolitan Lane, is serving farm-to-table pub fare and craft cocktails in Monona on the banks of the Yahara River. Brandon Reid, former chef for Heritage Tavern and Coopers Tavern, is a co-owner and the executive chef.
Transitions
The Trader Gus gas station, 5420 Willow Rd., in Westport, is currently closed, but Athens Gyros (the food stand located within the former Shell station) lives on! Athens Gyros is now serving homemade Greek cuisine next to the filling station from a truck. Several patio tables are available for “dining in.” A brick-and-mortar Greek restaurant is being built nearby.
Eric Tadsen
If you’re hoping to stop by Sophia’s Bakery & Cafe, 831 E. Johnson St., before owner Sophia Barbas retires, you still have time. It was announced last month that the weekend-only breakfast hot spot is seeking a new owner after two decades in business. Becky Parmentier, Barbas’ daughter, who is often found behind the register, says there is no definite timeline for closing, and they intend to take their time finding the right new proprietor.
A-OK Sunshine & Spirits, 829 E. Washington Ave., is getting a new name and new operators. Gwen and Kyle Johnson, who also own Johnson Public House, are parting ways with the building’s owner, Jon Reske. The coffeehouse will be renamed and become more food-focused. The Johnsons are looking for a new location for A-OK but have no definitive plans yet.
Closed
Dale Beck has closed The Bayou, 117 S. Butler St., to spend more time on his latest project: Lagartos, 802 Atlas Ave. The Latin American restaurant hosts DJs, dance nights and other entertainment.
