The impacts of a tough two-year stretch are still playing out, as restaurants continue to struggle with rising costs and staffing difficulties.
Among the latest fatalities is Bonobo American Bistro, 4518 N. Oakland Ave., which officially closed its doors this past weekend.
A sign on the door of the restaurant confirms the news, stating:
“Bonobo American Bistro has officially closed. We are currently looking for a new restaurant to occupy this space ASAP.
“We cannot thank this community enough for all the support these past few years. If you have any comments, questions or concerns, please email me at Spencer@bonobomke.com. Thank you, Spencer Stewart.”
The former North Star Bistro, which was sold to Stewart in late 2019, was rebirthed as Bonobo American Bistro, an upscale, yet family friendly concept which aimed to build on the foundations of its predecessor by providing a friendly neighborhood gathering place.
Stewart did not respond to our request for a comment on the closure. However, judging solely based on the brand’s most recent Facebook posts, the eatery was – as so many other restaurants – struggling to attract employees.
As a passionate champion of the local dining scene, Lori has reimagined the restaurant critic's role into that of a trusted dining concierge, guiding food lovers to delightful culinary discoveries and memorable experiences.
Lori is an avid cook whose accrual of condiments and spices is rivaled only by her cookbook collection. Her passion for the culinary industry was birthed while balancing A&W root beer mugs as a teenage carhop, fed by insatiable curiosity and fueled by the people whose stories entwine with every dish. Lori is the author of two books: the "Wisconsin Field to Fork" cookbook and "Milwaukee Food". Her work has garnered journalism awards from entities including the Milwaukee Press Club. In 2024, Lori was honored with a "Top 20 Women in Hospitality to Watch" award by the Wisconsin Restaurant Association.
When she’s not eating, photographing food, writing or planning for TV and radio spots, you’ll find Lori seeking out adventures with her husband Paul, traveling, cooking, reading, learning, snuggling with her cats and looking for ways to make a difference.
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