Milwaukee food lovers and restaurant-goers got a big helping of tough news over Thanksgiving weekend, as Justin Carlisle announced that Ardent will close at the end of December. As our hosts are both lovers of food and goers of restaurants, they couldn’t really start this episode anywhere else.

Ann connected with Carlisle for a Milwaukee Magazine article that sounded a few somewhat-hopeful notes. For one, Ardent’s chef/owner exceeded his own expectations for the business, saying that it was “never expected to last that long” but also that “[it] doesn’t mean it’s over. This chapter’s over.”

It turns out that’s true on a couple fronts. Carlisle’s personal next chapter will involve consulting and enjoying some time off. As for the space at 1751 N. Farwell Ave., we have one of those rare “breaking news” moments on this episode, which includes some information you won’t find in Ann’s article. On top of that, we have these bits and pieces from around the area:

• Three Black-owned food businesses in Wisconsin were awarded grants from the Heinz Black Kitchen Initiative.
• Food critic Keith Lee named Milwaukee as one of the most underrated food cities in the country.
• Just in time for the holidays, Ann has brought back her list of the best new books for foodies.
• Ann also made a recent trip to Brisa Do Mar and shared her thoughts about the Mediterranean menu.
• Milwaukee’s far northwest side will get a taste of Hmong cuisine from a new restaurant slated to open late this year or early next.