3RD ST MARKET HALL WELCOMES NUM PANG, BRINGING BOLD SOUTHEAST ASIAN-AMERICAN FLAVORS TO DOWNTOWN MILWAUKEE
Milwaukee, WI – March 6, 2026 – 3rd Street Market Hall is proud to announce the addition of Num Pang, a vibrant new restaurant concept celebrating Southeast Asian-American flavors, to its growing lineup of culinary vendors. The concept is led by husband-and-wife team Nikki and Brian Podgorski, passionate chefs and entrepreneurs whose story blends family heritage, resilience, and a deep love for community through food. Num Pang is slated to open this April.
Num Pang was born from a familiar but powerful inspiration: honoring the flavors passed down from family. For owner Nikki, a first-generation Cambodian-American, that inspiration came from her grandmother.
“Growing up, I realized my love for cooking stemmed from my grandma,” said Nikki. “She taught me everything I know and helped shape who I am today. My upbringing allowed me to see a blend of cultures, and that helped me create dishes I truly love.”
At Num Pang, guests can expect bold, unapologetically spiced flavors balanced with sweet and sour notes, rooted in Southeast Asian traditions and expressed through creative sandwiches and fresh ingredients. A signature element of the concept is Nikki’s commitment to bread making; each baguette will be baked fresh every morning, ensuring every sandwich starts with the perfect foundation.
Nikki operates Num Pang alongside her husband and business partner Brian, a self-taught chef and entrepreneur whose journey into cooking was driven by a desire to connect with his community.
“My life path has led me to my greatest joy, which is cooking for and serving my community,” said Brian. “Food creates a shared space at any table for anyone in this world. Regardless of background, food can establish a connection that can be universally understood.”
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