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New soul food, barbecue restaurant coming to Washington Heights

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/10/09 .. cue-restaurant-coming-to-washington-heights.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, October 9th 2025 at 17:16 GMT by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
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Milwaukee’s newest soul‑food barbecue spot is set to light up Washington Heights
(Source: JSONline, “New Milwaukee soul‑food barbecue spot coming to Washington Heights,” 9 Oct 2025)

The Milwaukee neighborhood of Washington Heights is about to get a fresh taste of the South. A new restaurant, tentatively called Soul‑Fire BBQ & Kitchen, will open its doors at 5 N 8th St. in the heart of the community on October 24 , 2025. The establishment promises to blend the smoky traditions of Kansas City–style barbecue with the comforting, family‑style dishes that have long defined soul food. In a city that has only recently begun to appreciate the depth of Southern cuisine, the venture is poised to become a cultural touchstone for both longtime residents and newcomers alike.

From the South to the Midwest

The brainchild behind Soul‑Fire is chef‑turned‑entrepreneur Kofi Owusu‑Abena. A native of Accra, Ghana, Kofi moved to the United States at 17 and fell in love with the culinary arts after spending a summer interning at a renowned barbecue pit in Memphis. He worked in several of the region’s top kitchens—including a stint at Memphis’ The South‑Side Grill—before eventually returning to Milwaukee in 2017 to start his own food cart, “Soul‑Sizzler.” That venture quickly became a local favorite, and in 2023, the owners of Soul‑Fire decided to take the next step by opening a brick‑and‑mortar space.

“We want to bring people together over food,” Kofi told JSONline in a video interview linked in the article. “Soul food is about community, comfort, and celebration. That’s what we’re doing here—one dish, one story, one table.”

The Menu: A Blend of Classics and Creativity

Kofi’s menu is a thoughtfully curated selection of Southern staples, all with a Midwest twist. Highlight dishes include:

The restaurant also offers a weekly “Soul‑Sundae” featuring a homemade peach cobbler and a scoop of locally‑produced vanilla ice cream.

In addition to the savory menu, Soul‑Fire will feature a small bar serving craft beers, local wines, and signature cocktails such as the Cedar Swamp (bourbon, elderflower liqueur, and a splash of grapefruit juice). For coffee lovers, the café will brew its own blends, emphasizing single‑origin beans sourced from small farms in Central America.

Atmosphere and Community Engagement

Unlike many high‑end dining spots, Soul‑Fire is designed to feel like a communal backyard gathering. The interior incorporates exposed brick, reclaimed wood, and a low‑key open kitchen that lets diners watch their food being prepared. The seating arrangement includes a long communal table that seats up to 12 people, encouraging conversation and shared plates.

The owners have a strong community focus. “We want to be a place where people can gather for birthday parties, graduation celebrations, or just a Friday night meal,” says co‑owner Lila Chen. “We also plan to host cooking classes every month so people can learn how to make their own soul food at home.”

In partnership with the Washington Heights Neighborhood Association, Soul‑Fire will open a “Community Kitchen” each Saturday where residents can sign up for a cooking workshop. A portion of the proceeds from these workshops will support the local food‑bank initiative in the area.

Local Buzz and Anticipated Impact

The opening of Soul‑Fire has already sparked excitement among residents and food enthusiasts. The JSONline article quoted several locals who have tried Kofi’s earlier food‑cart creations. One regular, Jamal Robinson, said, “Soul‑Fire feels like home. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you belong. I’ve been waiting for a spot like this for years.”

Culinary critics are also paying close attention. The Milwaukee Magazine’s upcoming issue will feature a profile on Kofi’s culinary journey. In an early interview, the magazine’s food writer, Sarah Patel, noted, “Kofi’s approach to blending traditional soul food with the unique flavors of the Midwest is fresh and exciting.”

Opening Day Details

• Date: October 24, 2025
• Time: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
• Location: 5 N 8th St., Washington Heights
• Dress Code: Casual (no white tablecloths, just good vibes)

Early reservations will be accepted through the restaurant’s website. The JSONline article links to the site, where guests can also preview the full menu, check out the staff bios, and sign up for a newsletter that will share weekly specials and event updates.

The opening day will feature a live acoustic set by local musician Maya Hayes, who has previously performed at nearby venues. For a limited time, the first 50 guests will receive a complimentary Soul‑Fire Sampler platter—an appetizer menu featuring mini versions of the brisket, ribs, and collard greens.

Why Washington Heights?

Washington Heights is a vibrant, growing community with a mix of student populations from the University of Wisconsin‑Milwaukee, local families, and a burgeoning arts scene. The neighborhood has seen a steady influx of new businesses in recent years, many of which focus on diverse culinary offerings. Soul‑Fire’s presence will add a unique flavor to the area, reinforcing Washington Heights’ reputation as a hub for innovation and cultural exchange.

The restaurant’s owners have emphasized their commitment to sourcing ingredients locally. They partner with the Milwaukee Fresh Farm Collective to procure fresh produce and dairy products, thereby supporting the city’s local agriculture. This synergy not only ensures freshness but also reduces the restaurant’s carbon footprint.

Final Thoughts

Soul‑Fire BBQ & Kitchen isn’t just another addition to Milwaukee’s food scene; it’s a celebration of heritage, community, and culinary craftsmanship. With its mouth‑watering menu, inclusive atmosphere, and community‑focused ethos, the restaurant promises to become a beloved staple in Washington Heights. Whether you’re a soul‑food aficionado or simply craving a hearty, comforting meal, the upcoming opening of Soul‑Fire is a culinary event you won’t want to miss.

For more details, visit the original article on JSONline: https://www.jsonline.com/story/entertainment/dining/2025/10/09/new-milwaukee-soul-food-barbecue-spot-coming-to-washington-heights/86602179007/