Brady Street neighborhood mainstay Balzac announced on Monday that it will close its doors after service on Wednesday, November 18. The wine bar and restaurant opened just off of Brady, at 1716 N. Arlington Pl., in 2005.
“Full of bittersweet memories, we announce today that Balzac will be closing after 18 years,” reads a social media post. “We know that so many of you have had first dates, 30th dates, girls night out, and many celebrations here over the years. We thank you for your years of support and camaraderie. We will be open until Wednesday November 22 to allow our fans to come in, raise a glass and celebrate almost two decades of being a part of the Milwaukee wine scene. Thank you again Milwaukee—to so many wonderful moments!”
In another statement, co-owner Leslie Montemurro explains the reason for the closure:
What can I say, closing a restaurant is never easy…but this one is extremely difficult. The truth is—and I know you’ve heard it before—but since the pandemic, everything has changed. The perpetual obstacles of labor shortages, increasing costs, slower than expected sales numbers, and supply chain issues are just too much of a hindrance to business. It’s time to pause and re-evaluate.
Montemurro owns/owned Balzac with Scott Johnson. Urban Milwaukee notes that the pair have co-owned many Milwaukee restaurants in the past (Comet, Fuel on Center, more), and are still majority owners of Hi-Hat Lounge and Hi-Hat Garage.
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