MADISON, Wis. (WFRV) – A well-known Wisconsin brewery is closing one of its long-running pubs.
The Great Dane Pub & Brewing Company announced it will permanently close its Hilldale location on Nov. 8, citing changing retail trends and declining revenues.
“This was an incredibly difficult decision,” said Eliot Butler, founder and president. “Hilldale has been part of our story for 19 years, and the community means so much to all of us. We’re forever grateful to the team and the guests who made it special. Ultimately, the financial challenges were too much for us to continue operating at Hilldale. While difficult, we’ll focus our energy on two things: helping our Hilldale staff move forward and strengthening our three other Madison-area pubs.”
The Great Dane will continue to operate its Downtown (flagship), Fitchburg, and East Madison locations. Brewing operations will remain at the Downtown and Fitchburg pubs, with Great Dane beer also served at the East Side location.
Until its last day, the Hilldale location will aim to maintain normal hours and a full menu. Guests with events scheduled at Hilldale will be contacted to relocate their gatherings to another Great Dane pub.
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“We’ve always believed in creating meaningful moments for our community,” Butler said. “That doesn’t change. We’re excited to welcome Hilldale guests to our other pubs and keep doing what we do best: great beer, great food, and genuine hospitality.”
The company noted that gift cards will remain valid at all Madison-area pubs and do not expire.
