Iconic St. Peter restaurant is closing, saying there's 'just no more money'
The dining scene in southeastern Minnesota has been dealt a blow, as the popular Whiskey River restaurant in St. Peter is closing its doors.
After more than three decades in business, the restaurant made the announcement on its website and Facebook page Monday afternoon. The next day it posted a message saying, "There is just no more money!"
Tuesday will be its last night of business, the eatery confirmed, adding: "We want to thank everyone for keeping us in business for over 35 years!"
The St. Peter Herald reports the eatery is known for its Sunday brunch and picturesque setting alongside the Minnesota River, with diners able to watch deer, wild turkey and birds from the windows as they eat.
"Whiskey River has been such a mainstay, such a fixture," St. Peter Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Ed Lee told the newspaper, which reported that the restaurant's manager was only told of the closure at 2 p.m. Monday.
The news was met with dismay among the restaurant's fans, who commented on the decision in the hundreds.
Marcus Benjamin wrote: "This restaurant has been a special meeting place for our Family for years. Watching the birds has been the most fun and unique experience ... not having Whiskey River is like losing another member of the family."
Beth Merrill Hoo said: "What a shame. The Sunday brunch was fabulous. We always ate there when passing through town. Thanks for the great food and animal/bird watching."
This video shows the view out of the rear windows.