Ann Christenson

1 week ago | milwaukeemag.com | Ann Christenson

That treasure of the candy-making world, the chocolate Easter bunny, is a true Wikipedia page-bearing celeb. While his background is a bit fuzzy, he was likely first made by German chocolatiers (those folks are known for their adorable tin molds). And as for his popularity in the States, a trendsetting late-1800s drugstore owner in Pennsylvania is said to have given the rabbit a pop culture boost by displaying a dapper, 5-inch choco version as an Easter advertisement.

1 week ago | milwaukeemag.com | Ann Christenson

Many Asian cultures revere the dumpling. In parts of China, it’s formed to resemble a sycee, a boat-shaped ancient gold currency, to represent prosperity and wealth. Practically speaking, a dumpling is a flexible culinary creation: The wrapper can be made from a thin or thick dough, stuffed with any kind of meat or vegetable, and cooked in a variety of ways – steamed, boiled, pan-fried, deep-fried. No way is better than another; just different.

1 week ago | milwaukeemag.com | Ann Christenson

Bronzeville’s new Kinship Café (in ThriveOn King, 2153 N. Martin Luther King Dr.) is soul-feeding in more ways than one. An extension of Kinship Community Food Center, the cafe implements the center’s mission of providing healthy food and serving as a training ground for people reentering the workforce. It’s also just a great place to grab a bite and hang out for a bit.

1 week ago | milwaukeemag.com | Ann Christenson

When Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church (9400 W. Congress St., Wauwatosa) was completed in 1961, the design challenged convention – some have likened its unique look to a flying saucer. Architect Frank Lloyd Wright, who was inspired by the Byzantine-era Hagia Sophia temple in Istanbul, said he wanted congregants to feel “cupped in the hands of God,” hence the circular form that dominates the design.

2 weeks ago | milwaukeemag.com | Ann Christenson

Monday is traditionally restaurants’ hardest day of the week to fill tables, which is why many are closed. Sometimes we need a little incentive to go out. These spots know how to sweeten the deal with their can’t-lose, Monday-only food specials. Architects, interior designers, renovation experts and landscapers – we want to see your best work!1. Camino434 S. SECOND ST. | 7211 W.