Popular restaurant closes after 10 years in downtown Windsor

A popular Windsor restaurant announced on Sunday they will be closing at the end of January. Josh Fraser, owner of Rino’s Kitchen and Ale House, posted on Facebook this is the last week the restaurant will be open for regular dining service. 

“All things must pass,” wrote Fraser. “After a proud 10 year run, we’re announcing that Rino’s Kitchen will be closing its doors at the end of this month. We are truly thankful to all our loyal customers over the last decade, many who we have built lasting friendships with.”

Rino’s Kitchen was founded by Ward 3 councillor and chef Rino Bortolin back in 2010 with the goal of  “creating a food experience built around locally sourced food and drink in a quaint and comfortable environment.” Fraser took over the restaurant in 2015.

The restaurant, on the corner of Elliott and Pelissier Streets, has the unique feature of being in a residential home, complete with a backyard patio.

“The restaurant business is one with many challenges,” said Fraser in an email. “After almost 20 years in the restaurant industry, it’s time for me to move on to new and different opportunities.”

For the past few years, the restaurant has hosted the popular municipal politics podcast, Rose City Politics. The weekly podcast found a home in the attic, and in the past featured regular guests like Ward 9 councillor Kieran McKenzie, Ward 4’s Chris Holt, Jim Morrison of Ward 10, and marijuana advocate Jon Liedtke.

“We truly feel honoured to have been able to share so many wonderful moments in people’s lives,” wrote Fraser. “To see other businesses use our upstairs space as a springboard for greater success has been one of our great joys.”

Rino’s Kitchen will officially close for regular dinner service Saturday, with a final party set for Jan. 31.