Adieu, Water Street Cafe
3 comments January 8th, 2009
Gerlinde’s Water Street Cafe, 115 N. Water St., has closed for business.
Owner Gerlinde Sampson opened her French-inspired downtown cafe six years ago and said the combination of a poor economy and decreased traffic contributed to her decision to close.
“It has gotten worse every year, especially the last year and a half,” Sampson said. “I will miss it all.”
Sampson, who grew up in Europe, has lived in the region for about 25 years. She plans to pursue catering and has had offers to open a restaurant on the city’s east side.
To contact her regarding catering, e-mail Sampson at gersampson@aol.com.
Sampson leased the cafe building, and the owners are looking to sell or lease again. Call 815-963-5125 for more information.

