Fanny Hill Going Out of Business February 22

Tom Giffey |

The Chippewa Valley will soon say farewell to Fanny Hill – and this time it will be for good. The restaurant/dinner theater/bed-and-breakfast/wedding venue will go out of business Sunday, Feb. 22, its owners announced Thursday.

“Current times do not support the overhead needed to continue the Fanny Hill operation,” the press release stated. “Last year, Fanny Hill’s production of live theater ended and the venue became available for local musicians as well as a venue for other theatre and entertainment groups to perform.” However, the press release continues, “Even the productions by third parties in the theatre have not had the attendance needed to continue the venue.”

Fanny Hill, 3919 Crescent Ave., has long been known for its beautiful location perched over the Chippewa River outside Eau Claire, its Victorian décor, and its fine dining options, including a famed Sunday brunch. Last February it pulled down the curtain on its own dinner theater productions, which for more than 30 years were overseen by Don and Lois Hodgins. Then late last year, Fanny Hill announced a new theatrical group, the South of the River Theatre Company, would stage productions at the venue; their first show, The Last Five Years, premiered just a week ago on Feb. 6. According to the press release, the show is sold out for Valentine’s Weekend.

Patrons are invited to pay one last visit to Fanny Hill before Feb. 22, although reservations are recommended and customers are reminded that menu and beverage choices may become depleted.

“We thank everyone who has supported us over the years and thank our wonderful staff for all they have and continue to do for Fanny Hill and our customers,” the press release concludes.