As the seasons shift in Milwaukee, so do the flavors at Carbon – a modern steakhouse in the heart of the East Town neighborhood that’s bringing a fresh Italian-inspired twist to its fall and winter menu. The chef behind these dishes, Matthew Molli, has spent years cultivating his culinary skills at some of Milwaukee’s most iconic spots, including 5 O’Clock Steakhouse, Dream Dance Steakhouse at Potawatomi, and McBob’s Pub & Grill. His experience and passion for flavorful ingredients have brought a unique warmth to Carbon’s menu.
Crafting a menu is an art, and for Molli, it’s about creating continuity across dishes that complement one another. “If you like one dish, you can come back and have another,” he explains. By utilizing core ingredients across multiple dishes, he builds a cohesive dining experience that keeps customers coming back.
The dining experience at Carbon strikes the right balance between elegance and ease. “We’re going for fine dining without being stuffy,” said Molli. Guests can celebrate special occasions or enjoy a casual evening out without feeling out of place. “We cook for you,” he adds, noting that the staff readily accommodates special requests.
Standout Dishes
You can’t go wrong with pasta, and Carbon’s Spicy Radiatori Pasta delivers with a rich tomato cream sauce and Calabrian chilis that add a subtle, warming heat – perfect for chilly nights. As Molli describes, “Calabrian chilis are hot, but not ridiculous, habanero burning hot,” making them approachable for anyone seeking a flavorful kick.
For something truly unique, diners can indulge in a caviar flight or try a “bump” for a smaller, yet decadent taste of caviar – a rare offering in Milwaukee that reflects Carbon’s commitment to introducing bold, luxurious flavors.
Perhaps the showstopper is the Roasted Seafood Tower, a signature dish served hot rather than the traditional chilled presentation. It features snow crab, scallops, shrimp, lobster tails, and mussels all topped with a rich chili butter – a must-try for seafood lovers and a statement piece for the table.
This season, treat yourself to Carbon’s fresh Italian-inspired twist on classic steakhouse fare. Visit Carbon’s website to learn more and access the full menu.
Carbon’s Hours
- Tuesday – Thursday: 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.
- Friday – Saturday: 5:00 – 10:00 p.m.
- Sunday – Monday: Closed
