Ryan Braun's Waterfront will replace Fratello's

Brett Favre's Steakhouse is long gone, but this summer Ryan Braun's Waterfront will replace Fratello's Waterfront Restaurant, 102 N. Water St., in the Third Ward. Adam McCalvy first reported the story on MLB.com.

Rumors about Fratello's, which opened in April 2008, were flowing last week and several people told me that it was closing. I stopped in tonight to find many people at the bar and general manager Scott Roekle smiling at the front desk.

Roekle told me that investors, including the Brewers' Ryan Braun, have looked at the space. He said a "Sweeney" was involved in the deal. McCalvy reported that "Sweeney" as Madison attorney Patrick Sweeney.

For me, Fratello's was always a bit stuck in the middle. It was nice and maybe a bit too nice for its casual food concept. I loved the patio but always felt like the inside could have been a bit more comfortable. Amy Schubert's 2008 review agrees.

I have a message into Jay P. Supple, CEO of the Supple Restaurant Group. In 2007 he and his company -- that own four other Fratello's locations and other restaurants -- were very excited about the Riverwalk location and opportunity in Milwaukee.

With an amazing location and the star power of Braun, Ryan Braun's Waterfront could be a big home run for the Third Ward. Sorry, I had to say it. But honestly, Milwaukee could use a celebrity restaurant and Braun's about as big as they get in today's Milwaukee.

The new restaurant, again according to MLB.com, may be open by opening day, April 5. As of today, Fratello's is still open.

Braun also is opening Ryan Braun's Tavern and Grill in Lake Geneva around the same time. He also is involved in a clothing company, Remetee.

Update: Ryan Braun's Waterfront opens Mon., April 5 at 4:30 p.m. It will be open daily 4:30 p.m. -1:30 a.m., but beginning April 12 will open for lunch at 11 a.m.