While the layout of the restaurant and bar will remain basically the same, that’s about all that the former Jake’s location and The River will share in common. The River, with a maximum capacity of 50, also is a stark comparison to the business owners’ Blue Mountain Brewery which seats 650.

“When I took over Jake’s, I knew I wasn’t going to keep it Jake’s, even though I wanted to do a burger bar,” Smack said. “I always knew that I wanted to do something small and concentrate on a smaller menu where we do everything really well and have amazing customer service.”

The River’s menu will be just that — centered on a classic burger, but offering specialty items with the Wisconsin-natives flare. Smack herself is a vegetarian and plans to include both vegetarian and vegan menu options.

Smack also plans to carry local beers, although she cannot carry beer from any of the breweries she owns because of ABC restrictions.

In addition to a revamped menu and local brews, the new space will have a modern industrial look. The walls have been stripped to the original brick, and the floors have been stripped down to the subflooring level for necessary repairs. While the space is currently gutted through the demoing phase, The River will feature all new furniture upon opening.