Exploring the Pizza Scene in Milwaukee: An Interview with Andrew Miller of Flowerchild Pizza
Milwaukee, often overshadowed by its larger neighbor Chicago, has a burgeoning food scene that is making waves. Among the notable contributors is Andrew Miller, a chef and restaurateur with a passion for pizza and an eye for innovation. In a recent podcast interview, Andrew shared insights into his journey, the challenges of running a pizzeria, and the evolving landscape of food delivery and marketing. Here’s a deep dive into the highlights of the conversation.
A Culinary Journey to Milwaukee
Andrew Miller’s love for pizza began in his early years, having worked in various restaurants since he was 14. His culinary adventures took him to New York, Chicago, and New Orleans before he eventually settled in Milwaukee. The decision to move to Milwaukee was strategic, driven by the city’s untapped potential and affordable real estate. The city’s vibrant summer scene and the opportunity for growth made it an ideal location for Andrew and his partners to establish their restaurants.
The Birth of Flowerchild Pizza
Flower Child Pizza, one of Andrew’s three restaurants in Milwaukee, was born out of a desire to create something unique. Initially inspired by Detroit-style pizza, Andrew and his team developed a hybrid style incorporating elements from Chicago and New Haven pizzas. The result is a high-hydration, long-fermented dough cooked in thin black steel pans, offering a distinctive and delicious pizza experience.
Navigating the Frozen Pizza Market
The pandemic forced many businesses to pivot, and Flower Child Pizza was no exception. They ventured into the frozen pizza market, a move that garnered significant attention when Barstool Sports reviewed their pizza positively. This unexpected publicity led to a surge in orders and a crash course in logistics for Andrew and his team. Despite the challenges, this venture opened new avenues, eventually leading to retail opportunities and expansion plans beyond Wisconsin.
Embracing Delivery and Digital Marketing
Operating in downtown Milwaukee, Flower Child Pizza had to adapt to the logistical constraints of urban locations. Instead of managing their own delivery fleet, they opted for third-party delivery services. This choice allowed them to focus on their core operations while reaching a broader customer base.
Andrew also highlighted the importance of digital marketing, particularly the power of video content. With platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube dominating social media, creating engaging video content has become crucial. Flower Child Pizza has seen significant growth by showcasing their food preparation processes and collaborating with local producers and other restaurants. Andrew’s strategy involves not just short-form content but also long-form videos on YouTube, offering a more in-depth look at their culinary creations.
Future Ventures and Innovations
Looking ahead, Andrew is considering establishing an internal agency to handle video production for their restaurants. This would streamline content creation and potentially offer services to other local businesses. By leveraging their expertise in the food industry, they aim to help other restaurants enhance their digital presence and reach more customers.
Links:
Subscribe
Online Restaurant Management Solution
Restaurant Owners: Run your independent restaurant like a franchise/chain without paying a 7% monthly royalty.
The FREE limited version of SPM available to anyone in the pizza industry.
- Network with fellow pizzeria owners
- Share your favorite pizza tips, recipes, and experiences
- Gain valuable insights and knowledge on running and growing your pizzeria
- Ask questions, seek advice, and collaborate with like-minded individuals
Whether you're a seasoned pizza operator or just starting, the SPM Community is your go-to hub for all things pizza.
Resources
- Wook.AI : WookAI Supplier Management System has got you covered! Our user-friendly system provides an easy way to audit your contract terms, which can lead to significant savings from recovered profits. Don’t miss this opportunity to optimize your restaurant’s financial health. Try WookAI Supplier Management System today!
- SPM Community: Whether you’re a seasoned pizza operator or just starting, the SPM Community is your go-to hub for all things pizza.