Gastropub in the works in West Allis

A gastropub serving upscale pub fare, craft beer and wine is planned for 5835 W. National Ave. in West Allis.

The site is across S. 59th St. from Kegel's Inn, the longtime German beer hall and restaurant.

Building owner Christopher Kuranz is planning the restaurant along with several business partners, including operating partner John Clark. A name for the pub is expected to be finalized in the next week or so, Kuranz said.

Plans, which call for 48 seats, were backed by the West Allis Common Council, which this week approved a special use permit.

The 1926 building previously housed retail shops on its first floor, including a jewelry shop and cell phone store, according to city documents. 

Kuranz expects the pub would open no sooner than October. It likely would serve lunch and dinner Tuesday to Friday, dinner on Saturday and brunch on Sunday.

"We're excited about it," he said. "The feedback's been phenomenal."

Besides Kuranz and Clark, the other gastropub partners are William Brashier and Walter Kirchhoff.