In an era of celebrity chefs, fast casual chains, and meal delivery services available at the touch of a button, it may be hard to imagine a state where people drive out of town to go to a pyramid-shaped restaurant to enjoy a nice brandy-based cocktail, a relish tray, fried fish, and prime rib. Where the host lets you linger at a bar for hours before even thinking of being seated for dinner. Where you might know everyone in the restaurant, including the owners. And you may be back in a few days to dine at the same place all over again.
But this magical state does exist, my friends. It exists at the Wisconsin supper club.
This week, we’re learning about the forgotten women that helped shape America’s beer industry in the 19th century. Dr. Jennifer Jordan, a professor at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, has spent the last few years researching and writing about the forgotten hop industry and specifically the women who were often at the forefront of hop harvesting in states like Wisconsin and California.