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Lament for The Berghoff
January 23, 2006
This past summer, Christa and I had the pleasure of dining at The Berghoff in Chicago. It was her first time and, sadly, probably the last for both of us. This is because this amazing restaurant, in business for 107 years, is set to close this February.
I found this out because I was curious why so many people had been hitting this website by searching for “Berghoff.” Sadly, my own search led me to a site that indicated that the restaurant will close.
This really grinds me. I mean, I’m pissed. Just ask Christa about my reaction.
Supposedly, the business is closing because the building owner bought out the lease so that the building can be converted into condos. MIXED-USE people! MIXED-USE! You need a good restaurant/cafe downstairs! How could someone ignore a business’ traditional vitality and historic value like that? It’s not like the business is in bad shape either. Christa and I visited on a non-descript day in May, and when we were done with lunch (we ate early), there was a line out-the-door.
Uggh. I need to go cool off.
Posted by paul at January 23, 2006 09:26 PM
Comments
christa said on January 24, 2006 08:00 AMIm really upset about it as well. I was hoping to eat there atleast one more time.
I dont understand why the daughter feels that a private banquet room is necessary over their traditional restaurant. Obviously I dont live in Chicago and I dont know if theres a need for a private room in the downtown area but why not lease an open space when one comes along rather than pulling out a resturant thats been there since before 1900? Is their cafe doing so well that it can stay? Why not just leave them both? Use the building for mixed-use, that doesnt mean you have to remove whats there, its a large building. Also, all the older men, are they losing their jobs?
Mom said on January 24, 2006 01:41 PMHey, this is Brian (I didn't want to change mom's setting, because then she would post as me iin the future and get all upset)
Anyways, I saw that it was closing in the paper the other day. sad. Does Chicago need more condos? I mean, come on, does it really? a new trump tower, more buildings else where, I'm sure there are good enough buildings that could sustain a liveable situation for most people. Its been so long since I've been to the Berghoff, but I shall miss it. :weep: