Old Chicago's Minnetonka Location Will Close Sept. 14
Staff say they were shocked to learn of the news.
The Old Chicago location in Minnetonka at the intersection of Hwy. 7 and Co. Rd. 101 will close at 10 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 14.
The restaurant will close after 16 years of business.
The landlord decided not to renew Old Chicago's lease, but Kitchen Manager Scott Pashina said he couldn't explain why. "That I cannot say, because I do not know," he said. "I'm not at liberty to say."
Many of the 40 staff members will be transferring to other Old Chicago locations, primarily in Eden Prairie and Plymouth.
"We have made some great friends over the years, and we are hopeful that you will continue to think of Old Chicago when you are in the vicinity of one of our other locations," staff wrote on Old Chicago's Minnetonka web page.
As for what will take Old Chicago's place, a source said staff are being told Wild Bill's has begun preparations to take over the building.
However, Hurricane Grill & Wings announced it will be taking the spot. With the first Minnesota location opening in Burnsville in October, the island-infused menu and beach themed, family-friendly atmosphere will also be coming to Minnetonka in February.
Hurricane Grill & Wings, whose trademark is "Live with Flavor," is known for its uniquely savory chicken wings, offered in five categories with a choice of more than 32 signature sauces. Other menu options range from salads to Certified Angus Burgers and Grilled Mahi-Mahi along with a full line-up of craft beers and wine.
Pat Carpenter
7:32 am on Wednesday, September 5, 2012
The closeing of OC is terrible news. This is a family restaurant that serves and is needed in Minnetonka. I see our community as growing more mature, we do not need a cowboy bar. The "stop for red light" signs at the intersetion of Hwys 7 and 101 will truly be needed. Not to mention late nite area traffic and the problems that go with it.
C Smith
12:50 pm on Wednesday, September 5, 2012
It is amazing that you are taking the comments a "source" without checking out the facts. Poor and lazy jouralism. Way to taint the new business.
I am thrilled that Wild Bill's is coming to Minnetonka. We enjoy the one in Maple Grove and look forward to having one close by. We need more good restaurants in Minnetonka.
Jay Corn
12:58 pm on Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Hi. C Smith. Is there a fact that is wrong or unreported? If so, please share, and we'd be more than happy to include and/or update. The source spoke on condition of anonymity out of fear of being terminated. We respected their wishes. Thanks!
T
1:49 pm on Wednesday, September 5, 2012
This is very disappointing to me. Minnetonka doesn't have much to boast about in terms of places to eat... at least Old Chicago had some healthy options and was family friendly.
Becky Glander
2:59 pm on Wednesday, September 5, 2012
To soften the blow, you could check out the new Ike's Food & Cocktails that will open Sept. 18 just across Hwy 7 from Old Chicago: http://minnetonka.patch.com/articles/ike-s-food-cocktails-opens-sept-18-in-minnetonka
Oscar Falls
4:35 pm on Wednesday, September 5, 2012
If Old Chi is healthy, then let's put ketchup back on the list of veggies.
Karen Stotts
11:20 am on Thursday, September 6, 2012
I personally welcome both changes - IKE's & Hurricane Grill & Wings sound like some fantastic options! Woo hoo!!!
Iamthe portlyman
10:43 am on Friday, September 7, 2012
I agree Pat Carpenter " we do not need a cowboy bar". Everybody is selling wings with the exception of the coffee shops and bagel stores ( what are they waiting for? ).
Cgram
9:47 pm on Saturday, September 8, 2012
Nothing will beat Old Chicago Minnetonka. That was a prime location for a sports bar. The best place to watch sports and have decent food with a great staff. It's unfortunate the property has to force out a great company. There is plenty of other areas that Hurricane Grill & Wings can go. They don't need to force out a great business that's been there for 16 years.
gina
11:03 pm on Sunday, March 24, 2013
Cgram, I read that the owner of old chicago decided not to renew his lease