Nō Studios announced on April 27 that it would be opening of Skyline Bar + Lounge in the heart of Milwaukee’s Brewery District.

Situated on the top floor of Nō Studios, Skyline features a stunning glass enclosed bar and lounge with unobstructed views of the city, in addition to two outdoor rooftop patios. Unique in Milwaukee, Skyline will offer a curated sake collection.

“There’s really nothing like this in Milwaukee,” said John Ridley, Nō Studios founder and CEO. “The panoramic views offer a different, must-see perspective of the city which can be enjoyed from inside or the outdoor patio areas.”

Skyline’s décor includes lounge couches, high top cocktail tables and professional lighting to set the mood. In addition to a full bar beverage selection, Skyline will focus on sake, a traditional Japanese alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice. The menu includes a wide range of sakes, sake flights and sake cocktails.

“By design, Nō Studios has always reflected the influence of East Asian culture,” said Ridley. “The word Nō, or 能, is the sino-Japanese word for skill or talent, and an East Asian influence is evident in our building’s interior aesthetic as well. With Skyline Bar + Lounge, we’re hoping to extend that cultural influence through the introduction of a curated selection of sakes.”

To introduce the sake experience to Milwaukee, Skyline is hosting a series of tastings, discussions and events with experts and admirers of the beverage both in Milwaukee and across the country. As part of that effort, Milwaukee’s own Tarik Moody has partnered with the organization as Nō Studios’ resident sake scholar and enthusiast.

“I have always been fascinated by sake since I first tasted it during college at Howard University,” said Moody. “Last year I decided I wanted to learn more about the culture of sake, so I took a Sake Professional Course, and now I’m a certified sake professional. This is the beginning of a three-year journey to learn all I can and hopefully one day brew my own sake. I’m excited to partner with Nō Studios to share my passion with others.”

Upcoming events will cover the rich history of sake and include sampling of its many varieties and pairing possibilities, including Japanese inspired tapas. Skyline will feature a different sake each month and offer unique specials. Sake bottles to-go are also available for purchase online. Skyline is open to the public Thursday through Saturday from 5 to 11 p.m. and members have additional access.

© Photo

Nō Studios