Sophie Bolich

Vegan Restaurant Exits Milwaukee Public Market

Owner Emily Ware is 'no longer in the restaurant business.'

By - Feb 3rd, 2025 05:35 pm
On the Bus. Photo courtesy of the Milwaukee Public Market.

On the Bus. Photo courtesy of the Milwaukee Public Market.

After more than seven years of serving its all-vegan menu from behind the wheel of a 1971 Volkswagen, On the Bus has permanently closed its vendor stall at Milwaukee Public Market.

Owner Emily Ware confirmed the news to Urban Milwaukee on Monday afternoon, noting that she is no longer in the restaurant business. She also left a parting message for customers at the market, 400 N. Water St.

“It is with a heavy heart that I have made the decision, effective immediately, to permanently close On the Bus and cease operations,” says a note displayed on the counter of the former restaurant. “I am thankful beyond words to the staff, customers and the Milwaukee Public Market for their years of support. It’s been an incredible ride filled with ups and downs, unforgettable memories and many delicious meals. Here’s to an amazing future.”

Opened in 2017, On the Bus was — at the time — one of the only exclusively plant-based eateries in the Historic Third Ward. Its menu went beyond smoothies and salads, also featuring burgers and sandwiches, acai bowls and non-dairy ice cream.

Along with its made-to-order offerings, On the Bus had a grab-and-go cooler filled with prepared foods, drinks, ice cream pints and more.

On Monday, Milwaukee Public Market Executive Director Paul Schwartz said that he was “recently informed” of the closure and shared the following statement via email:

“We want to take a moment to express our sincere appreciation for what On The Bus brought to the Market and Milwaukee since they began operating in 2017. After a record-breaking year for total vendor sales at the Market, we remain committed to fostering a vibrant and diverse culinary destination and look forward to welcoming a new vendor to serve our community and the millions of patrons who visit the Market each year.”

Schwartz also encouraged diners to follow the market on social media and sign up for its email newsletter to receive future updates.

On the Bus’s departure coincides with the arrival of two new vendors. David Alan Alan’s Smokehouse, serving barbecued meats, sides and cocktails, joined the Public Market in early January. Forage Kitchen, a Madison-based restaurant offering salads, grain bowls, soups, wraps and fresh-pressed juices, opened on Feb. 1.

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Categories: Food & Drink

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