MILWAUKEE — A beloved Milwaukee restaurant known for its signature hot dogs and comfort food will soon close its doors after nearly five decades of serving the community.
Martino's, located at 13th Street and Layton Avenue, announced Tuesday it will close on Dec. 19, 2025, ending a nearly 48-year run in the neighborhood.
Watch: Martino’s to close in December after nearly 48 years in business in Milwaukee
"As we close this chapter, we do so with immense appreciation for every customer, employee and friend who has been a part of the Martino's story," the owners, TJ & Cathy Anderson, wrote in a release.
Watch previous coverage of Martino's here:
The restaurant has been a staple in the Milwaukee dining scene, drawing customers with its signature hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and comfort food offerings. The owners said that they are ready to retire and want to spend more time with their family.
"My wife and I are going to be grandparents for the first time, and family is everything to us," TJ Anderson said.
He also mentioned that he and Kathy finally want to give their bodies a rest. Kathy has had two knee surgeries, and TJ has an upcoming surgery in December. While the restaurant business has not been easy the past five years, TJ said financial difficulties were not the reason for closing.
"Its been a rough ride for a while, but that's not the reason why," TJ said.
For longtime customers, seeing such a community staple leave is difficult. Martino's has been part of many people's lives for decades.
"I used to come as a small child and say I'd work for food and call out the numbers and do fun things like that," Ben Kaminski, a longtime customer, said.
Many customers packed the restaurant because they saw the post announcing the closure.
"One of my favorite places, so many memories along with the great food," Guadalupe Wise said.
The restaurant will close on Dec. 19, but that doesn't necessarily mean the end of Martino's altogether.
"Does it mean Martino's is done? No, Martino's is not done. This location will be don, but Martino's itself will continue on. We have a lot of things stoking in the fire right now," TJ said.
However, those plans remain a secret. He and Kathy are keeping those plans concealed for the next four to six months before revealing the future of the Martino's brand.
You can read their full release below.
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