Sales never rebounded after COVID-19 shutdowns. Now, this Wichita restaurant is closing
Before the COVID-19 pandemic hit in March, things were going well for Gabby’s Peruvian Cuisine at 1002 S. Seneca, says owner Gabby Kruskamp.
But then the shutdowns happened, and the restaurant was closed for two months. When it reopened in May, the customers didn’t return, she said.
“We didn’t have sales. We had no people,” Kruskamp said. “We’re losing a lot of money. I’m using money from my pocket.”
So Kruskamp has decided to close the restaurant for good, she said. Her last day in business will be Aug. 16.
Gabby’s first opened in early 2016 in a tiny spot at 1713 W. Douglas that had room for only four tables.
But the restaurant earned a following for its authentic Peruvian dishes like arroz con pollo, chicharron, fried tilapia and flan, and in May of 2018, Kruskamp relocated the restaurant to the bigger space, which had previously held restaurants like The Breakfast Club. The move allowed her ten times more seating than she’d had previously.
Kruskamp said she doesn’t know what’s next for her but she’ll likely try to find a different job.
She said she’ll miss the restaurant and her customers.
“I don’t want to do it, but I have to do it,” she said.
Those who want to visit before the restaurant closes will have to go during its new limited hours: noon to 7:30 p.m. Fridays through Sundays. People planning to dine in are asked to make reservations by calling 316-613-8050.
This story was originally published July 27, 2020 at 11:50 AM.
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