Fusion Cuisine, Casual Atmosphere At Peppermill Grill

Wisconsin State Journal:

The space last occupied by T.G.I. Friday’s across from West Towne Mall has become the Peppermill Grill & Bar. The faux collectibles d cor of Friday’s has been replaced by a sleek contemporary look in ’spice colors’ like ‘red pepper, nutmeg, mustard and basil.’

The new restaurant’s described by its public relations staff as ‘polished casual’ with an ‘international menu’ that offers ‘bold flavors.’

The catering arm of Peppermill Grill is Culinary Concepts of Madison, which became the interim caterer for Overture Center after its previous caterer, Premier, went out of business. Peppermill Grill is being launched by Madison-based Country Kitchen Restaurants as a franchise opportunity that, it hopes, will be the prototype for another national chain, and it hopes to open at least 3 more Peppermills in 2007 and has secured franchise rights for about 40 states. Unlike Country Kitchen, Peppermill Grill has a full bar and 50 wines by the glass.

The idea is to catch the market just above the overcrowded casual dining segment of the restaurant industry by introducing more sophisticated fusion cuisine emphasizing the influences of barbecue as well as Asian, Mediterranean, Jamaican and Cajun cuisine. Read more.