Fire Destroys Historic Breitbach Restaurant
By
Kurt Sempf
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Click here for a feed of raw video from the scene
Click here for an interview with the owner, Mike Breitbach
Click here to find out one of the many reasons this restaurant was popular
Sunday, Jan 20 at 11:37 PM Marie and Ed Soyka wrote ...
Such a terrible tragedy. We learned of Breitbachs some 11 years ago while on the Wisconsin Convertible Tour and have been back there at least once a year since and the latest was last summer while staying in Dubuque with the convertible tour. Will miss our visits there. This was a great loss to the area. We had a planned visit with others for August of 2008. What a great place it was!!!
Flag for moderationSunday, Jan 20 at 4:18 PM Frank and Enola Neff wrote ...
Balltown and the restuarant was a place we visited when we could. We live in SE Iowa, Packwood, and the restuarant was recommended to us by a neighbor. We truly enjoyed the experience of eating at the restuarant and the drive to and from it. Hoping to see a new one in its place. Thank you for a wonderful dining experience..
Flag for moderationFriday, Jan 18 at 6:00 PM Pete & Kathy(the Wis rural mail carriers) wrote ...
How saddened we are today to find that our favorite place is gone..but...the old will live in our memories and the new will be better than ever because of the Breitbach family and employees. You are all in our thoughts and prayers...see you soon
Flag for moderationSunday, Jan 13 at 4:07 PM Maria G. Ruiz- Austin Texas wrote ...
My outmost feelings of sorrow for the loss of this awesome family restaurant. I will forever cherish the memories of enjoying beautiful family moments with the love of my life and her family, who offered me the wonderful experience of dinning at Breitbach restaurant. I will miss it greatly as I miss my Iowa family.....MGR - Austin, Texas
Flag for moderationThursday, Jan 10 at 7:28 PM Joel wrote ...
Will really miss eating there, Mike always stopped by to ask how things were, A rare and unique eatery, We ride our motorcycle over there several times a year, and ALWAYS stop to eat. I hope that Mike and the family can rebuild and keep the tradition going
Flag for moderationMonday, Jan 7 at 11:10 PM Friend wrote ...
Your restaurant has brought so much joy to so many people. Balltown lost a treasure that day. I will be there when you re open.
Flag for moderationSunday, Jan 6 at 9:43 PM Vern & Mary Breitbach c/o Ann wrote ...
So sorry about the loss of your great restraunt. Your food, wine and your company was great! We enjoyed dining there with our families for many years. Our prayers are with you!
Flag for moderationSaturday, Jan 5 at 9:40 AM Maggie wrote ...
So sorry about your loss of the restaurant..My brother (the guy with the Sundrop) told us about you so we had to check it out..We so enjoyed the history and home town feeling of your place, not to mention the great food. Our hearts go out to your whole family as you rebuild your history and carry on..We cant wait to come back and enjoy your new found place from the heart..
Flag for moderationThursday, Jan 3 at 12:11 PM Glenn and Terry Jenkins wrote ...
Sad yes but breitbachs will be back and we had a great time new years eve at the wine shed love you guys
Flag for moderationTuesday, Jan 1 at 10:29 PM The Grants, Cedar Rapids, Ia wrote ...
Mike and Cindy: Our prayers go out to your family and your employees. I am a native of Balltown and have been to your restuarant many many times. I even worked there will in high school. You are both great people who have served wonderful food all these years. I have no doubt you will not rebuild. Mike and Cindy you have always been there for our family, if you need any help I am sure our family will be there to help you out. Take Care and God Bless.
Flag for moderationSaturday, Dec 29 at 9:48 PM Anonymous wrote ...
This restaurant and bar has been special to my family for so many years. We all had so many good times there. Rebuild and we will come back. We will allway be thinking of you and your family.
Flag for moderationSaturday, Dec 29 at 9:37 PM Friend wrote ...
Iowa and the city of Balltown. Truly lost a treasure.
Flag for moderationSaturday, Dec 29 at 2:05 PM A Friend wrote ...
My condolences to all the Breitbachs and the community of Balltown. Our condolences to the family who kept this tradition going for so many years
Flag for moderationSaturday, Dec 29 at 8:57 AM Karin, Wolfgang and Matthew from Hamburg / Germany wrote ...
Chatting on christmas eve with our friend Jerry of Dubuque, he told us about this tragedy that made us very sad. Since we met our friend Jerry in 1998, we have been to Mike Breitbach every time visiting Jerry. Mike is such a nice guy and he treated us as real VIP's. He made us feel like at home. For us it is -a must- to be at Breitbachs and see Mike every time when we are in Dubuque. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mike and his family. We’ll be back for sure no matter if the restaurant is rebu
Flag for moderationThursday, Dec 27 at 9:35 PM Richard wrote ...
I learned from a friend of this tragedy. I ate there often while a student at Wartburg Seminary in Dubuque. Mike was an excellent host. My condolences to all the Breitbachs and the community of Balltown. A great history went up in smoke but the memories will live on in all the hearts of all who worked there or ate there. May God give you strength and courage now and in the future. Rebuild and I/we they will come. Thanks for the memories
Flag for moderationThursday, Dec 27 at 11:03 AM Anonymous wrote ...
Iowa truly lost a treasure. Rebuild and we will come back!
Flag for moderationThursday, Dec 27 at 4:58 AM A Friend wrote ...
You have our thoughts and Prayers with you. You are a wonderful family. Can't wait to savor your fantastic prime rib or Saturday night buffet. Best Wishes with all the cleanup and rebuilding. See you soon.
Flag for moderationWednesday, Dec 26 at 10:58 PM Anonymous wrote ...
I am all ready missing the great Homemade pies.
Flag for moderationWednesday, Dec 26 at 10:51 PM Breitbach Lover. wrote ...
Our hearts go out to the whole Breitbach family. We will keep you and your community in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless!
Flag for moderationWednesday, Dec 26 at 5:12 PM Anonymous wrote ...
It will be ok. I am so sorry. You are all great people. All you need to do is look to the lord he will help you.
Flag for moderationWednesday, Dec 26 at 11:46 AM Westhoff Family wrote ...
Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. Balltown is a wonderful community and the Breitbach resturant played a big part in that. I know you will rebuild and enjoy success again. God Bless.
Flag for moderationWednesday, Dec 26 at 8:40 AM Lover of Food wrote ...
I am very sadden by this loss, my husband proposed to me at Breitbachs almost eight years ago! Hope you rebuild soon.
Flag for moderationWednesday, Dec 26 at 8:06 AM LeAnn Montezuma,IA wrote ...
Sad, I visited Breitbach with my friend Brian,Mike called us the lap landers. At that time Mike did not have t-shirts in stock, left my address and within two weeks Mike sent me two. What a place and staff. Thoughts are with all.
Flag for moderationWednesday, Dec 26 at 7:59 AM Scanny KPMCWI wrote ...
What a loss! Such a great place with great people! Rebuild and we will be there! I am all ready missing the great pies!!
Flag for moderationWednesday, Dec 26 at 3:50 AM Brandon Breitbach wrote ...
Don't worry guys. Breitbach's will be back!
Flag for moderationWednesday, Dec 26 at 1:50 AM The Callahans ex Sherrill, Iowa wrote ...
Breitbach clan and workers. Be proud. You had the greatest 'hands on', family own restaurant. Sitting on the highest most scenic spot in Iowa. Rebuild and we will come.
Flag for moderationWednesday, Dec 26 at 12:35 AM Cory wrote ...
My family and i have come up here for the past 45 years to eat. I am also a firefighter and know that there was nothing they could have done or they would have done it! this was a priceless place!
Flag for moderationTuesday, Dec 25 at 10:56 PM Adam Cummer. wrote ...
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Breitbach's. It was such a wonderful place. It was in my family for so many years. It was first owned by my G G Grandparents Jacob and Philomena. And there were so many family Heirlooms that can not be replaced
Flag for moderationTuesday, Dec 25 at 10:54 PM Sarah L. wrote ...
As a Balltown native my entire life, it will take a while to come to accept the fact that my favorite restaurant is gone. It looks so strange driving into town and not seeing the historic landmark. Balltown is a strong community that'll help rebuild.
Flag for moderationTuesday, Dec 25 at 10:46 PM Loras Link Family wrote ...
We are all still in shock after losing the heart of Balltown. It put Balltown on the map. I'm sure everyone is looking forward to your reopening. Our help is always available. Our thoughts and prayers go out to our wonderful friends and neighbors.
Flag for moderationTuesday, Dec 25 at 10:33 PM Ron and Mary Benesh, Cedar Rapids wrote ...
We have visited Breitbach's many times on our motorcycles and were saddened by this devistating fire. Our hearts go out to Mike, his family and the employees. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. See you in the spring!!
Flag for moderationTuesday, Dec 25 at 8:11 PM Anonymous wrote ...
Our thoughts are with the whole Breitbach family and staff. We were always greeted with a welcome smile. We loved to stop in for a great meal and it always put a smile on my dad's face. Rebuild and we will come back!
Flag for moderationTuesday, Dec 25 at 5:18 PM Charlie & Pam -Old Crow Antiques-Harmony Mn wrote ...
It's a shame to lose such a landmark with fantastic food, staff, & service. Not to mention all the antiques. If they rebuild, we'll donate a lantern or two.
Flag for moderationTuesday, Dec 25 at 3:53 PM sharris (edgewood Iowa) wrote ...
I heard Jesse James once ate their, WOW>
Flag for moderationTuesday, Dec 25 at 3:22 PM Amy from Duehr Auto Body in Balltown wrote ...
My husband and I have known and worked for the Breitbach's most of our lives. Our heart goes out to the entire family. Tony and the guys enjoy lunch with Mike and staff every day. We have many fond memories and look forward to new ones!!!
Flag for moderationTuesday, Dec 25 at 2:55 PM TAZ wrote ...
I was really saddened by the news today about this tragic fire. Very glad everyone got out OK. Our Valkyrie Motorcycle Club from Chicago area came up here all the time as here and the area are so beutiful. The decor was awesome. Hope they rebuild it.
Flag for moderationTuesday, Dec 25 at 1:02 PM Donna wrote ...
What a tradegy, Northeast Iowa truly lost a treasure, but a new legacy begins.
Flag for moderationTuesday, Dec 25 at 10:12 AM kelsey wrote ...
this is sad, my family owns a cabin in buena vista which is about 10 miles from there, so we would visit often. hopefully they rebuild
Flag for moderationTuesday, Dec 25 at 9:54 AM Firefighters wrote ...
Let it burn itself out? Come on. Look at all the fires lately. Firefighters are as LAZY AS EVER. Let my garage burn down and say "well, its best to let these things burn themselves out." Idiots. Toss me the hose and let me do your job!
Flag for moderationTuesday, Dec 25 at 9:47 AM Barb wrote ...
So shocked to here of this loss, to a community, an a beautiful part of the state of Iowa. My son lives in Farley and this was one of our many historical stops annually or even more often. My husband is a firefighter in Keota,relate to the pain
Flag for moderationTuesday, Dec 25 at 9:34 AM Danny Jones/Valkyrie Rider wrote ...
We have been making a point of stopping at Mikes Place since 1999 when we first discovered Breitbachs. We make it there at least once or twice a year from Chicago. It will be a total loss if you don't come back. Very sad to here the news.
Flag for moderationTuesday, Dec 25 at 9:31 AM Eugene and Becky wrote ...
Between being part of the Euchre group and the families for over 30 years this event saddens our hearts. We can not wait for the rebuilding to start so we can help in any way we can. Balltown is a family community and everyone is here for you!
Flag for moderationTuesday, Dec 25 at 9:22 AM Todd from Coraville wrote ...
I sadden too hearing about the fire. I took my fiancee Janice there in Oct because of the memories of going Breitbach's with my parents who have passed away. It had been 15 years since I been there. I even sent a email to the Food Network.
Flag for moderationTuesday, Dec 25 at 8:37 AM Vicki & Betty wrote ...
My mama & I just heard about your place this past Summer & were very excited to find it! We were very pleased w/the food! We are very sorry for what has happened & our prayers go out to you all! We will come back when you rebuild! Thanks
Flag for moderationTuesday, Dec 25 at 5:14 AM Obbop wrote ...
I can get a burger for a buck at McDonalds
Flag for moderationTuesday, Dec 25 at 12:03 AM Robb in Idaho wrote ...
The historic building is gone, but the historic family is not. Rebuild, and we will come.
Flag for moderationTuesday, Dec 25 at 12:02 AM Breitbach wrote ...
My entire family is saddened by this tragedy. We have lost a part of our heritage and legacy. Mike and Cindy, our thoughts are with you. Thank God nobody was injured.
Flag for moderationMonday, Dec 24 at 11:27 PM Abby Jasper wrote ...
i was shock when i woke up to my dad fireman scaner when they called holy cross then when i found out wath was going on my aunt and uncle live right next to breitbach my wjole faMILY NEW EVERYBODY THERE LIKE MIKE THE WORKERS I WILL MISS THIS PLACE
Flag for moderationMonday, Dec 24 at 11:26 PM Paul Erickson - Cedar Rapids wrote ...
We are a group of eight golfers that Mike treated royally every time we had beakfast there. I can't tell you how shocking this is. Mike and his crew have always been great, and the food couldn't be better any where.
Flag for moderationMonday, Dec 24 at 11:17 PM Kari and Dennis from Cedar Rapids wrote ...
Our thoughts and prayer are with you.You have brought much joy to the area.No words can discribe the loss that is felt,it brings tears to our eyes for your loss.You are great people. Thanks for the memories and look forward to your future.God Bless.
Flag for moderationMonday, Dec 24 at 10:38 PM Lanae wrote ...
My family and I saw Alton Brown's "Feasting on Asphalt this last summer and went in Oct. Mike was great and showed us the kitchen and all. They were really busy and still took time out for us. Thank you so much. The food was excellent. C U soon!
Flag for moderationMonday, Dec 24 at 10:29 PM Ben wrote ...
Wow! I was shocked when I saw this! Me and my fiance ate there the night after I proposed to her a week ago. Its so sad to see such a tragedy like this happen to such a great family. We all wish them the best.
Flag for moderationMonday, Dec 24 at 10:23 PM janet k wrote ...
I can not believe the wonderfull land mark and resturant is gone, I will miss the wonderfull painting from the travling gypsy.Already looking foward to the re opening.My thoughts are to my neightbor and his family at this time.
Flag for moderationMonday, Dec 24 at 9:58 PM Patty Shannon wrote ...
It truly saddings our entire family to hear of your loss. We loved coming to the restaurant. Iowa has lost a lot of history with the loss of this restaurant. Condolences to the Breitbachs and Balltown.
Flag for moderationMonday, Dec 24 at 9:18 PM Diane Tekippe wrote ...
I really shocked that my favorite restaurants of my good friend Breitbach and sobbing. My house rent fire in Holy Cross last Feb 17th 2007. I love see ur old guns on top and pictures on wall. Keep pray you in my heart. See you when ur rebuild done.
Flag for moderationMonday, Dec 24 at 8:48 PM kyle gassman wrote ...
I hope that they do rebuild, the location will always be special. Someone will build another resturant, I feel.
Flag for moderationMonday, Dec 24 at 8:45 PM Viola wrote ...
You have rightfully earned a lot of respect for a number of years for your great food and service. I have eaten there many times & hope that you rebuild. Thank you, Mike, for carrying on the tradition of your good family has had going for years
Flag for moderationMonday, Dec 24 at 8:01 PM Mike wrote ...
Your restaurant has brought much joy to thousdands of people.I have been there many times with friends on our motorcycles.Our thoughts are with you.
Flag for moderationMonday, Dec 24 at 7:30 PM Kim Brecht wrote ...
Our hearts go out to the whole Breitbach family. We loved visiting your restaurant and the food was outstanding. You always made us feel welcome and at "home". We will keep you and your community in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless!
Flag for moderationMonday, Dec 24 at 7:14 PM Don Klotzbach wrote ...
my thoughts are with the Breitbach family I have been a customer for 15 years I hope they plan to rebuild
Flag for moderationMonday, Dec 24 at 7:03 PM Brent wrote ...
How sad. I've never been there but I've heard of it several times over the years. I hate to hear of stories like this. Thankfully everyone got out OK. Hopefully they can rebuild and get things back to as close to normal as possible.
Flag for moderationMonday, Dec 24 at 6:54 PM Maxine Bebber wrote ...
My heart goes out to all of you. I worked there a few years, and I did not work for Cindy and Mike, I worked with them. God Bless all of the family and workers. Hope to see you up and running real soon! Love you!!
Flag for moderationMonday, Dec 24 at 6:12 PM jdub wrote ...
Respectful story. Our prayers are with the community.
Flag for moderationMonday, Dec 24 at 6:11 PM another lover of this restruant wrote ...
I really liked going to this restruant My family and I allways came here when our realitives came back to see us for the holidays WOW will he rebuild another restruant so that some people can go back and have a nice time and visit the sweet owner
Flag for moderationMonday, Dec 24 at 5:47 PM s harris (edgewood ia) wrote ...
What a great place to eat! pur thoughts are with them in there time of need! Hope they rebuild soon! Why on Christmas?
Flag for moderationMonday, Dec 24 at 5:45 PM jacob wrote ...
are there plans to rebuild. it was a great place to eat
Flag for moderationMonday, Dec 24 at 5:31 PM Janet Anderegg wrote ...
I was deeply saddened to hear this news. We were planning on visiting this restaurant for Christmas dinner and have enjoyed many fine meals here. Our condolences to the family who kept this tradition going for so many years. Iowa has lost an icon.
Flag for moderationMonday, Dec 24 at 4:40 PM William Heber wrote ...
This restaurant and bar has been special to my family for five generations. My family is orginally from Balltown and have known the Breitbach's for generations. My great great grandfather use to sell chickens/meat to them, I hope they rebuild.
Flag for moderationMonday, Dec 24 at 4:24 PM Larry wrote ...
This is very sad on several levels. Family owned restaurants of this type are dying out. I learned about the restaurant in an episode of Alton Brown's "Feasting on Asphalt" this past summer and had planned on visiting the restaurant in Spring 2008.
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