Kaiser Building, 1004 Menomonie St.

A historic landmark in Eau Claire may become a “gastro pub” after a city panel changed its mind and approved the plan. On Aug. 15, the city Plan Commission voted to allow a tavern in the century-old brick structure known as the Kaiser Building, 1004 Menomonie St. In July, the same panel had voted against the proposal, citing the prevalence of existing taverns on nearby Water Street. However, the commission reversed course after passing several amendments to the conditional use permit, the Leader-Telegram reported. According to the newspaper, “The amendments call for requiring the facility to serve food such that a license is required from the Health Department, to offer at least half its seating at tables and booths, and to set its closing hours at no later than 12:30am Monday through Thursday, 1:30am Friday and Saturday and midnight on Sunday” – the hours proposed by James Rolbiecki, the building’s owner. In an email to the commission, Rolbiecki said he wants to create a “family friendly gastro pub” with a menu including burgers, wings, and pizza. The plan will require additional approvals, including receiving a liquor license from the City Council.