GOODBYE, GALLOWAY GRILLE. The bar and grill has been a go-to on Galloway Street for about 15 years. The Cranky Buzzard announced its purchase of the business on Thursday, Oct. 6.

Galloway Grille, a longtime eatery in downtown Eau Claire, has been purchased by The Cranky Buzzard. The Cranky Buzzard announced the news on social media Oct. 6, eliciting surprise from some diners, who did not know Galloway Grille (409 Galloway St.) was looking to sell. 

The Cranky Buzzard opened last spring in Eau Claire’s Banbury Place, making its home in the suite previously occupied by Lunchbox EC. It sells casual American food, with an emphasis on all things deep fried and cheesy, serving Philly cheesesteaks, fried chicken bowls, and more. 

“It is with great honor, yet bittersweet, to announce that we will be moving into a new location,” The Cranky Buzzard said on Facebook. “We have purchased Galloway Grille in downtown Eau Claire and The Cranky Buzzard officially opens on November 1 at 8am. We have some big shoes to fill. We are excited, nervous, and cannot wait to meet you and serve you. Thank you for your support thus far, and please stop in and say hello!”

Sara Matthieu, owner of The Cranky Buzzard.

The Cranky Buzzard’s owner Sara Matthieu also owns Denali Farms, an Eau Claire-based farm best known for its pasture-raised chickens and raw honey. 

One of the Galloway Grille’s managers, who did not wish to be named, said Galloway Grille will officially close after Oct. 23 and use the days leading up to Nov. 1 to transition into its new ownership. The current Galloway Grille staff will continue working at The Cranky Buzzard after the transition. 

"We have a very new, very exciting menu coming," the manager shared. They said The Cranky Buzzard's menu will likely focus on farm-to-table style dishes.

The manager said the process has been underway for some time as the owners “crossed their T’s and dotted the I’s,” and will continue releasing information in the coming month. 

Galloway Grille was named the Valley’s third favorite brunch spot in the 2022 Best of the Chippewa Valley Poll and has been a staple on Galloway Street for about 15 years. 

Visit Galloway Grille’s Facebook for updates and keep up with The Cranky Buzzard on their Facebook too.