After a year and a half in business, The Winchester – named after a reference from the film "Shaun of the Dead" – shuttered for good last week. In August of 2015, OnMilwaukee first reported the bar and restaurant opened in the former Two Bucks space, 2321 N. Murray Ave. 

"When the Winchester took over the location, we knew that it would be a challenge. But with our combined experience and a great concept, we thought we could make it work," says owner Steve Gilbertson, who co-owned the business with Jay Stamates until February 2016.

"However, a combination of the location difficulty – plus having to work through some issues with key personnel – just proved to be too much. So, after many months of blood, sweat and tears, we've decided to move on."

Gilbertson, who also owns The Standard and Jim's Time Out, says at this point he is going to focus on his other businesses and feels grateful for the many people who contributed to the Winchester concept.

"We'd like to thank all of our dedicated employees and customers – we wish the outcome would have been different. Each of us who were involved with the Winchester are looking forward to our new endeavors and maintaining the successes of our other tavern locations in Milwaukee," says Gilbertson.