February 15, 2006

Loosing a bit of Chicago history

For a long time, THE restaurant in Chicago was Berghoff's. Family owned for over 107 years, the third generation Berhgoffs (he is 70, his wife is 68) decided it's time to close the doors. A bit of history from their website:
THE EARLY YEARS (1887-1930)
The restaurant's founder, Herman Joseph Berghoff, an immigrant to America in 1870 from Dortmund, Germany, began brewing Berghoff Beer in Fort Wayne, Indiana, in 1887 as a family enterprise with his three brothers, Henry, Hubert and Gustav. A promoter by nature known for his sparkling blue eyes and determination, Herman dreamed of expanding the market for his beer beyond Indiana. The Chicago World's Fair of 1893 proved to be a perfect introduction when he sold the beer to fair-goers on the now-famous Midway.

Inspired by the wide public acclaim the beer received at the fair, Herman opened the Berghoff Cafe in 1898 to showcase his celebrated Dortmunder-style beer. Originally located at the corner of State and Adams streets, one door down from its present location, the bar sold beer for a nickel and offered sandwiches for free.

"We'll give the Dutchman six months," said Herman's critics. He proved them wrong, and the bar prospered even during Prohibition (1918-1933) when it served near beer and Bergo Soda Pop. Unable to rely on beer sales alone, the bar expanded into a full-service restaurant, which earned its own strong reputation by Prohibition's end.
Here is Herman holding the first liquor license issued in Chicago after the repeal of Prohibition:
Berghoff-license.jpg
I never lived in Chicago but have traveled through and Berghoff's was always a great place to stop for dinner. Posted by DaveH at February 15, 2006 8:29 PM