MENOMONEE FALLS — A Menomonee Falls fish fry staple is ending after more than 30 years.
The Schwabenhofis serving its final fish fry Friday after one final day of service. In a Facebook post, the German restaurant said it has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and labor shortages.
"We sincerely appreciate all your loyalty, friendship, and gemütlichkeit over the years. It is through our great team and loyal guests that we have had such a tremendous run," the Schwabenhof said in its Facebook post.
Former President of the United Donaushwaben of Milwaukee, Mary Ann MacGillis shared that inflation played a huge role in the board's decision.
"Fish prices went up, potatoes prices went up, all supplies, paper, oil, every supply that is put into creating a fish fry, that all went up. And that has to get passed onto the consumer, and it comes to a point where you can't pass it on anymore," said MacGillis.
The part-time restaurant had also been facing staffing shortages.
"At this time we have three people running the fish fry, three years ago there were 10 at least and that's just in the kitchen. We were doing carryout, that worked for a while, but again three people running a fish fry is just not feasible," said MacGillis.
According to the post, the Schwabenhof's facilities will still be available for rentals and the company will still host German Cultural Club and United Donauschwaben of Milwaukee events, including the seasonal Biergarten and Oktoberfest. The organization has plans to shift its focus on sharing its culture with the community.
"At the end of the day, we are first and foremost an ethnic organization, a cultural organization, and that's where we're going to be putting our emphasis," said MacGillis.
"Thank you all for your patronage and understanding," the post said. You can read their announcement here:
