Three Outstanding Greendale Businesses Nominated as 2021 Business of the Year
Each year the Greendale Chamber of Commerce nominates three Chamber businesses for Greendale Business of the Year. The winner is chosen based on its involvement with the organization, as well as its contributions to the community. The Chamber has been selecting a Business of the Year for more than 10 years. The Chamber will vote at its November meeting, after which the winner will be announced.
The three nominees for 2020 Business of the Year are Ricardo’s, J&J Contractors I LLC and The Explorium BrewPub. All three are outstanding Greendale businesses, well regarded by their customers and great assets to Greendale. As everyone can agree, this year has been an extraordinarily difficult one for any business. These three businesses continue to thrive during these challenging times, due to smart planning, flexibility and the ongoing demand for the products and services each offers. They are terrific role models for other Greendale businesses.
Ricardo’s
For more than 50 years, Ricardo’s has been the anchor in Greendale’s Historic Downtown for exceptional Italian food. The business was founded in 1969 by Rick Loch (see related article on page 20). It continues to be first- choice in the Village for delicious Italian options, including its Friday fish fry, along with its signature pizza.
The restaurant first responded to the COVID pandemic when indoor dining was banned, and Ricardo’s switched up its service through the “back door” on Parking Street. Long the door to enter for pick-up/take-out, it now is the scene for curbside pick-up as well as the usual walk-in service.
As of this writing, sit-down dining service is at 25% of normal capacity. Patrons should visit the website for menu offerings, as the menu may have been altered to make for smoother, easier service, and compliance with health and cleanliness standards of COVID health regulations.
We thank Ricardo’s for their 50 years of service and support of all things that make Greendale so special.
Ricardo’s • 5627 Broad Street • 414.421.1980
ricardosgreendale.com
J&J Contractors I LLC
J&J was founded in 1983 by Jerry Cyborowski and is still family-owned and -operated. What started out as a small roofing company quickly grew to providing all kinds of exterior work, including siding, windows and doors. Since the mid 2000s, J&J’s services have also included everything on the interior side of remodeling. Jerry officially retired in 2017, and left ownership in the hands of his wife, Marie, and his son, Jason.
Recently, J&J relocated to the vacant/prior police and fire station, and courthouse building, on Schoolway (just across the parking lot from the Hose Tower) from its prior location on Loomis Ave. This historic building was completely refurbished and updated with redefined interior spaces to meet their business needs while bringing back the original look of the 1938 building. Remodeling took a year and a half, and was completed just as the epidemic hit, which postponed the grand opening to the public for some months. However, an outdoor event was held this past August.
Clients may see samples of various remodeling options for their homes, along with exterior finishes, windows and even garage floor finishes. One recent customer was pleased that her planned remodel of the bow window in her house was bid and completed in a timely fashion during this difficult year. J&J craftsmen were completely equipped for proper health standards, and the homeowner cited excellent workmanship throughout the process.
The unique opportunity to move into the heart of Greendale was extremely important in the expansion of the company. J&J owners and many of its employees also live in the Village. They are active in the community (e.g., Jason is a Village trustee) and are dedicated to the growth of the area.
J&J Contractors I LLC • 6600 Schoolway • 414.423.9200
jjcontractorsllc.com
The Explorium BrewPub
This locally owned, cozy pub, located at Southridge Mall (on the west side near Macy’s), offers 24 taps of house-made beer in a family-friendly restaurant. Explorium opened its doors in 2016, and has a loyal group of customers who are attracted to the comfortable environment and lovely outdoor patio – PLUS, delicious food. Diners can choose from unique appetizers, soups, salads, burgers and other sandwiches, pizza, and a variety of mouth-watering entrees and desserts.
Owners Mike and Joan Doble have wide experience in brewing and brew pubs that contributes to the excellent over-all dining experience. Brewery tours are also offered. Prices are designed to attract people who want an excellent experience without the cost of high-end specialty breweries. While conforming to COVID guidelines, Explorium also offers indoor dining, along with curbside pick-up.
Mike and Joan are proud to offer their small-batch craft beer, along with delicious food inspired by cuisines from around the world. They are also proud supporters of the community, and you can find their beers offered for sale at many of Greendale’s special events.
In addition to the Greendale location, The Explorium BrewPub has a second location in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward.
The Explorium BrewPub
5300 S. 76th St. (Southridge Shopping Center) • 414.423.1365 exploriumbrew.com
