News - The Spread MKE: A New Hub for Milwaukee Sports Fans

Milwaukee's highly anticipated sports bar, The Spread MKE, opened its doors on June 25 at 1137 N. King Drive, marking a new chapter in the vibrant Deer District. Spearheaded by Aaron Ohlsson and Paresha Pesqueira, The Spread aims to offer more than just a place to watch games—it's crafted to be a quintessential gathering spot for sports enthusiasts across the city. The Spread MKE's location has a storied past, previously hosting popular venues like Local Pub and Loaded Slate. Now, under the stewardship of new owners Ohlsson and Pesqueira, it seeks to provide a nostalgic yet fresh hangout that resonates with the local community's spirit. Transforming the former Local Pub site, significant efforts were made to ensure the space reflected both its rich history and new vision. This transformation received full sanction from the City of Milwaukee Licenses Committee following an LLC transfer from former owner Edward DeShazer, who expressed confidence in Ohlsson and Pesqueira's capabilities to elevate the venue's legacy. Known for its impressive setup of 15 television screens, The Spread is situated ideally for fans attending events at Fiserv Forum and the forthcoming Landmark Credit Union Live concert venue. Its proximity to these hotspots positions it as the ideal location for pre- or post-event gatherings. What makes The Spread truly stand out is its commitment to fostering connections among Milwaukeeans. 'We want this to be a place where people's paths cross, friendships form over shared sports triumphs and defeats,' Ohlsson explains. This mission is complemented by a menu featuring creatively crafted game-day favorites and an array of spreads for sharing. Despite it being the first foray into a sports bar venture for the owners, both Ohlsson and Pesqueira bring a wealth of experience—Ohlsson previously established the Miramar Theatre, while Pesqueira runs Revel Bar in Bay View. Their shared history of event collaboration provides a strong foundation for this latest venture. Patrons can enjoy The Spread's offerings from 1 p.m. to 2 a.m. on weekdays, extending to 2:30 a.m. on weekends. As the World Cup season draws to a close, hours may shift to accommodate a different crowd flow, opening earlier on weekends to satisfy early sports fans. Nestled in a district already pulsating with entertainment, The Spread MKE promises to enrich Milwaukee's cultural tapestry. As the bar embraces its new role, eager patrons anticipate a blend of warmth, excitement, and a touch of local flair that keeps them coming back. For inquiries, contact Kelli Arseneau at (920) 213-3721 or karseneau@gannett.com. Follow her on X at @ArseneauKelli.