Back in mid-December of 2019, Der Rathskeller restaurant permanently closed their doors after nearly 90 years of business and broke hearts all over Rockford.

Just when we thought the grief and cravings for delicious sausages and German-inspired food would never cease, we get served up a heaping portion of good news...Der Rathskeller is reopening in Rockford by the end of July 2020!!!

The nearly 90-year-old German restaurant was purchased in April for $135,000 by Jon Reese, 58, of Loves Park and Jonathan Griffin, 43, of Rockford from previous owner Michael DuPre, according to the Winnebago County recorder of deeds.

Their partnership is called Ja Ja Ja Hospitality, an allusion to the eatery’s familiar advertising jingle that aired for decades on local radio and television.

Der Rathskeller's new owners says the German-inspired dishes and sausages that kept Rockfordians coming back for years will still be on the menu, but they will also be offering more farm-to-table menu options and will use as much local produce and farm products as possible.

The Rockford Register Star also reports that the new owners are also planning to add an espresso bar which will feature pastries and new breakfast and lunch options.

If all goes according to plan, Der Rathskeller will reopen by the end of July/beginning of August, and we cannot wait to welcome them back to Rockford!

Catch Lil Zim on ‘Q98.5 Mornings with Lil Zim & JB’ on Q98.5 from 6:00 a.m. to 10 a.m. Follow her on TwitterInstagram, and Facebook

 

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