Saffron, a new upscale Indian cuisine restaurant, is planned in the Third Ward this summer

Jordyn Noennig, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
·1 min read
Saffron, an upscale Indian cuisine restaurant, is coming to 223 N. Water St. in the Third Ward
Saffron, an upscale Indian cuisine restaurant, is coming to 223 N. Water St. in the Third Ward

A new Indian cuisine restaurant, with a modern and upscale twist, is planned for the Third Ward in Milwaukee this summer.

Saffron, with indoor and outdoor dining on the Milwaukee Riverwalk, will be owned by husband and wife Hanish and Fatima Kumar.

"What were trying to do is bring a new mindset of Indian cuisine," Fatima said. "It doesn't have to be your basic food. We're trying to bring a new upscale concept with something for our generation; more farm-to-table, organic, vegan, gluten free, that's what we're trying to add."

The couple, both in their 30s, have applied for licenses with the City of Milwaukee and plan to open in June.

"We have a lot of work as far as remodeling is concerned," Hanish said.

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The site of the restaurant, at 223 N. Water St., was briefly Rivalry, which closed in 2017, and Rustico before that.

When the Kumars found the site near the corner of Water and Buffalo streets, they hopped on the opportunity.

"The Third Ward is our favorite location in the city. That's where I feel like our generation goes out for restaurants," Fatima said. "The vibe is really upbeat. This location in particular is right off the water. There are so many 'yeses' to it."

More details about Saffron will become available closer to its opening.

Jordyn Noennig covers Wisconsin culture and lifestyle. Follow her on Instagram @JordynTaylor_n. Find her on Twitter @JordynTNoennig. Call her at 262-446-6601 or email Jordyn.Noennig@jrn.com.

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This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: New Milwaukee restaurant Saffron to bring Indian cuisine to Third Ward