How Kegel’s Inn thrived for a century through resilience and innovation

Small Business Saturday is right around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to highlight a local business that’s making a lasting impact. On today’s episode of The Small Business Show, host Jim Fitzpatrick welcomes Julian Kegel, fourth-generation owner of Kegel’s Inn, based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Kegel’s Inn opened in 1924 during the height of Prohibition. Julian’s great-grandparents, John Kegel Sr. and Anna Kegel, opened a beer hall disguised as a soda parlor. They brewed beer in the basement and installed stained-glass windows to prevent onlookers from peering inside. Wisconsin decriminalized prohibition enforcement in 1928, and the restaurant has continued to serve authentic German cuisine and beer ever since.

Proudly family-owned and operated for 100 years, Kegel’s Inn has navigated challenges across generations. The COVID-19 pandemic offered a modern test of resilience. Just 18 days after completing a two-year street renovation for a new beer garden, Milwaukee entered lockdown. Kegel quickly implemented a drive-thru service to maintain sales, particularly for their popular Friday Fish Fry, demonstrating how flexibility and innovation can keep a business afloat.

"Every time you decide to go out, try to pick a local restaurant, a local owner, or a local retailer. Those dollars go way farther in the community than giving them to a bigger corporation."

Kegel emphasizes that supporting small businesses cannot be a once-a-year gesture. Local restaurants, owners, and retailers rely on consistent patronage to keep their doors open. Every dollar spent locally stretches further and strengthens the community in ways big corporations simply cannot.

A practical way for customers to show support is to purchase gift cards from several local shops and give them to friends. This approach spreads support across multiple businesses, reduces overcrowding on Small Business Saturday and helps these small businesses thrive year-round.