Cloud Red

Not a 1950s communist paranoia B-movie but a new tavern taking over an old tavern space on Oakland, near Kensington, in Shorewood. Cloud Red (4488 N. Oakland Ave.) is not strictly a Mexican restaurant, and it's primarily a bar, but it seems that they may consistently serve some type of Mexican related food on their revolving menu. On my first visit I got the impression that the kitchen was inquisitive and somewhat innovative. Alas, I don't live in the heart of Milwaukee's south side Mexican restaurant paradise, but rather north of downtown, and when I walk or bike somewhere it's preferably to the north (avoiding the soul numbing parking lots and faceless offices downtown and the hellish strip of trash filled empty lots south of the Third Ward that have to be traversed to get to the south side). Unfortunately, the neighborhoods to he north, in spite of a university, are culinarily (not to mention racially) un-diverse. It's not so easy to find a taco in Shorewood, sometimes. Still, it's a beautiful area with lots of red-winged blackbirds, apparently, after which this bar is named.

Since I quit drinking, soon to follow was to quit hanging out in bars, but still I like the idea of bars as gathering places, especially when there are positive vibes and something else to do besides drink, like mini-bowling or eating. I feel like this place could be a fine hangout for someone who wants to be among people occasionally, so I may return and see what else the kitchen comes up with. I tried a hefty shrimp taco which was very good, though awkwardly priced at $6; for me, one is too little, and two maybe too much. But the real landmark decision here was the bravery I summoned (without drinking!) to order an appetizer called "Amaizeballs."

Now, I have to say... I have un-friended people just for using the expression "amaze-balls" (even once)—but in this instance, the "maize" pun, and the opportunity (with no small amount of trepidation) to order this dish by name, won me over, momentarily. The gluten-free, panko covered, deep-fried, hominy balls, while edible, were not delicious, and a bit mushy and gross, lacking a variety of texture or flavor, and that white stuff didn't help. But I ate them, I didn't hurl, and I was able to Snapchat all my friends pictures, "Look! I'm eating Amaizeballs!" It was quite a day. But, however, in the future—and I will go back to the place, no doubt—or me, yeah, tacos.