Milwaukee staple McBob's changing owners after nearly 40 years
MILWAUKEE - Known for its famous corned beef and friendly atmosphere, McBob's Pub & Grill, at 4919 W North Ave, has been a Milwaukee staple for nearly 40 years.
The old space is ushering in new owners, friends Katy Klinnert and Sara McConville. It was an unexpected decision, even for them, and it has been a rocky road to reach this point.
"We can’t imagine having lived through the last few years ever thinking it would come to this," said McConville.
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For years, Klinnert and McConville baked together. They even rented space at a common kitchen in Oak Creek at one point, where a massive electrical fire scorched everything in 2022.
"We all lost absolutely everything we had. Every piece of equipment, every ingredient, everything was gone," Klinnert said.
McBobs Pub & Grill
The two eventually met the owners of McBob's who, after three decades, were looking to sell.
"It was time. Time for Steve and I to go, and time for the younger to get in," said outgoing owner Christine McRoberts. "I feel like a teenager again where I can think about what it is I want to do now for the rest of my life."
McRoberts said she feels moving forward the place will be in good hands.
"I have all the faith in the world that these guys are going to do great," she said. "They’re young, they have a lot of background for cooking food, and they’re exactly what this place needed."
The new owners are taking over the business that means so much to the community – and meant so much to McConville's late father.
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"We came here the day after his funeral, and we celebrated his life here because he loved this place," she said. "He would tell me I’m crazy, but he would be so proud of me."
For those who are wondering whether the place will still have the same feeling it's always had, the new owners said not to worry.
"It’s in the contract that we will not change the corned beef," said Klinnert.
McBob's Pub & Grill
They said the essence of the place will always stay the same.
"We just want to carry it on. We’re not looking to reinvent the wheel," said McConville.
"It is an absolute melting pot and everybody is comfortable and welcome here and that’s the most important thing to us," Klinnert said. "We love people, we love food, and we love making people happy and this is where we can do that."
The outgoing owners said they'll still stay on for now, helping the two transition. They're hoping to fully turn over the place within the next few months.