SAINT FRANICS — For 39 years, George Burzynski has worked tirelessly to bring authentic handcrafted Polish food to Milwaukee. After more than three decades of owning the only Polish restaurant in Southeastern Wisconsin, Burzynski will be closing the Polonez Restaurant's doors.
"I'm happy. I have so many nice customers that I will remember forever," said Burzynski.
The news was posted to the restaurant's Facebook page Sunday, saying the restaurant's last day will be Sept. 25. Burzynski and his wife plan to retire.
"Twelve-hour days, six days a week is just far too much for them. He's been working nonstop ever since. No vacations, nothing like that. My dad is 74, no 74-year-old should have to work as much as he does," said Burzynski's son, Peter Burzynski.
Burzynski came to the United States in 1981. In 1983, he opened the Polonez restaurant where over the years he's served popular dignitaries, politicians, religious leaders, and thousands of customers.
"At the beginning, I didn't know anything about business, I just had a love for cooking," said Burzynski.
"I am eternally grateful for them. They worked day and night nonstop. Their American dream was not necessarily for them, but for us," said Peter.
Burzynski says it wasn't an easy decision to retire and close the restaurant, but he's looking forward to spending less time in the kitchen, and more time with his family. Especially his grandchildren.
"I never had the chance to go to any of my kid's school's plays because I was workings six, seven days a week. All three of my grandchildren are my sweethearts. I want to spend more time with them," said Burzynski.
Beginning Thursday, Polonez will begin its phased closure. The Facebook post says the restaurant will serve a limited menu of buffet options with sides available in-house or to-go.
Until its closure on the 25th, Polonez will serve its Sunday brunch as usual.
The business hours will also be different leading up to the closure. Polonez will be open from 11:30 a.m. until 8 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Saturdays, and from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. on Sundays.
"I want our closing to be a celebration. I know it's a sad thing but it can be a little bit of both," said Peter.
The restaurant is located at 4016 S. Packard Avenue in Saint Francis.
