Riverwalk Bistro, 223 N. Water St. in the Third Ward, quietly closed its doors yesterday.

A voice mail message confirms the closing, says that "they've met many great people" and thanks diners for "their patronage" during the restaurant's four years of business. The same message, oddly, encourages callers to visit the restaurant's Web site.

With such a prime location and great patio, expect another operator to take over the space in the near future.

The following is text from an e-mail sent by the owners:

It is with mixed emotions that I write this, my final newsletter to you. After four years, we have closed Riverwalk Bistro. As you know, the restaurant business is tough and a very competitive downtown market has made it even more challenging. We have decided to close it now before the start of a very long winter.

I speak for myself, my husband and my partner when I say that although it was a business decision, it was tough deciding to close because we knew how much we would truly miss seeing so many wonderful people. The best part about the restaurant business has always been special customers; seeing you walk through the door, getting a warm hug and seeing your bright smile, was always a high for me. You've become a special part of my life and I will miss each of you. So not only do I thank you for your support and patronage, I thank you for your friendship and the joy you brought into our restaurant. I hope that our paths will cross again and that you will keep in touch!!

I'm not certain where my future will lead me, but I expect that I will get back into corporate America. I'm looking forward to exploring opportunities outside of the restaurant business and I am leaving my options open. With my now even more diverse background, from healthcare practice management to business management, who knows where I will next see you - in your physician's office, at your investment firm, doing marketing and promotions for another company, or just out enjoying one of Milwaukee's other great restaurants. Either way, I really do hope that I will see you again, soon and often. (My contact information is below.)

Wishing you every happiness this Holiday Season and prosperity in the New Year. Thank you for being one of my valued and treasured customers. All the best to you and your family.

Warmest Regards,

Terrie & Joe Zanotti, Phil Lehner
Riverwalk Bistro