A heartfelt note from Lowlands Group founder and CEO Eric Wagner greets visitors to Cafe Hollander at 7677 W. State St., explaining why the beloved Wauwatosa restaurant remains closed following extensive damage from the recent 1,000-year flood.

Four feet of water in the restaurant's lower-level kitchen destroyed equipment, walk-in coolers, and dry storage, forcing a six-to-eight-week closure for major renovations.

A Message from the Heart

Wagner's letter to the community reflects both gratitude and determination:

"First, our hearts go out to the residents and businesses who have lost so much during this disaster. Many are facing challenges far beyond what insurance can cover, and some losses simply can’t be replaced. Please know we are keeping you in our thoughts," he wrote. 

"Once again, we’ve been reminded what an incredible community Tosa is. At one point, while we were removing tables and chairs from the bridge, I looked up to see our landlord and neighbors carrying them alongside us—umbrellas, too—stacking everything safely out of harm’s way. That kind of support means the world.

“We’re also so grateful for the messages of encouragement that have poured in from across the state, the country, and even the world. Every note, call, and comment has lifted our spirits.”

Rising to the Challenge

While the building's foundation remains sound, the renovation ahead is extensive. Chief Creative Officer Ileana Rivera explains the scope: "The way the water impacted the building was incredible. Outside, the steps and walkway that led to that back door were literally swept away by the river."

X

"Inside the basement kitchen, where it had found its way in, the water was four feet high, so it immediately impacted every single electrical outlet; they were all black. Our equipment was floating. Our walk-in coolers were destroyed. Everything in dry storage was a loss."

As part of the renovation, equipment will need replacement, water damage will need mitigation and elements like flooring and drywall will need to be restored.

“We’re also taking advantage of the situation and making improvements to the second and third floors to make things feel fresh for our guests.”

Despite the losses, Rivera notes that the company has successfully accommodated displaced employees (many at Buckatabon) and rescheduled most catering events. 

The hope is to be able to reopen the restaurant by September 28. And, if all goes well, the bar could open earlier for TosaFest, which kicks off on Sept. 5.

Buckatabon Steps Up

While Tosa Village’s Café Hollander location is temporarily closed, the hours for its sister restaurant, Buckatabon Tavern & Supper Club at 7700 Harwood Ave., have been expanded. 

Beginning Friday, Aug. 15, Buckatabon will serve weekday breakfast Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. and brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The changes will enable Lowlands Group to offer additional hours to staff who have been displaced from Cafe Hollander in Wauwatosa. It will also allow the Northwoods-themed restaurant to offer new customers the opportunity to enjoy breakfast, Bloody Marys and community.

To accommodate guests, the team has curated a substantial, approachable breakfast menu with a variety of plates from “Up North” specials like Blackened Perch & Eggs to hearty hashes topped with prime rib, loaded Coffee Cake French Toast and more. 

Beginning on Wednesday, August 28, Buckatabon will also debut three new specials, all of which will be available for both breakfast and lunch seven days a week. As a customer, you’ll be able to give your feedback on the new dishes with an opportunity to win a Lowlands gift card.

Maple Morning Hash will showcase Buckatabon hashbrowns topped with maple-roasted carrots, sautéed lacinato kale, citrus ginger vinaigrette, sunny-side up eggs, candied pecans and feta crumbles. 

X

A Lakehouse Brunch Plate will feature toasted rye bread topped with herb cream cheese, sliced cucumbers, smoked salmon flakes, pickled onions, and capers. The plate will be served with a side of fruit and two of Larry’s classic deviled egg halves.

X

Meanwhile, the Big Pickleback Dog consists of sizzled ring bologna served on an 8” toasted everything-seasoned bun with dijon mustard, chopped pickles, black garlic ketchup and a side of steak fries. 

X

"The Wauwatosa community's resilience and support have been nothing short of inspiring," Wagner said. "We hope that opening Buckatabon early will not only serve familiar faces, but also invite new diners to experience what an authentic Up North tavern feels like—right here in the heart of Tosa."

As Wagner concluded in his note: "If the past five years have taught us anything, it's resilience and the ability to rise to every challenge. We look forward to sharing a bier with you when we're up and running again."