lakennedy, good recommendation on watching the Twins/Sox game at Legends, but I didn't like people constantly yelling "GAZETTEFAN" and asking if they can wear my sombrero.

nothing compares to seeing a show in chicago oriental theater- i saw wicked twice. it is a must see. I also enjoy armory. Seems real nice to me. I also like you dont have to leave your table and can still have wine with the show vs fireside being hauled in like cattle after you eat. I enjoy fireside too but i like the shows at armory because theyre for adults.
Not sure what somebody meant by armory repeating shows ? there hasnt been a repeat yet.

I have also been to velvet lips- very good as well!!! nice decor

monica- i agree sweeney todd was very good!!

Im on board for a CHIPOLTE too!

This is so stupid...all there is to do in Janesville is eat. And people complain about health care? wow.

Is KFC going to be housed temporarily somewhere else while they rebuild? I don't think I can go 4 or 5 months without their yummy cole slaw.

But what about Golden Corral??????

the Armory is horrible. I also reccomend the Fort Atkinson place.

armory is ok, if you enjoy an imitation fireside theatre.... it still draws in people from miles away... at least the fireside doesn't run the same shows year after year... once and a while they may repeat a show or 2 the following year, but they at least make more of an effort to switch things up for more variety and keep the crowds coming...

justsome1here-Believe me, that's what I was thinking about Sweeny Todd also.... UNTIL I WENT AND SAW IT! My parents have season tickets and my Dad is usually too busy to go, so when he can't go my Mom takes one of her daughters and it was my turn. (I'm 32, for those of you who are wondering) I don't like thrillers at all, and I thoroughly enjoyed Sweeny Todd. The Armory takes pride in their shows and does a great job. It was not gory at all. It was very tastefully done. I plan on saving up money to take my family there for A Wonderful Life next year.

Screw that, I want chipotle.

I say bring a restaurant that can bring some good soul food to Janesville. The smell of BBQ and southern favorites......... Mmmmmmmmm. Some1 should tap into that unchartered territory.

If is't not an all you can eat buffet, forget it. this town has no class. to the posters regarding a Sonic, go to Madison...off the beltline in Monona. fusion 5 closed. you want to try something new and good food...go over to Fort Atkinson. place called The Velvet Lips right next to cafe carp. upscale atmosphere, great service and excellent food. and the price is NOT upscale.

OMG! Chainsville!! That is hilarious! That is exactly what I was thinking! Why do you guys want more chains? That is all we have here..H0w about supporting local businesses for a change. Try something different...
Although, I would love to see a White Castle.
GO WHITE SOX!!!!!!!!!!!

Dave and Buster's is a sports grill/arcade for adults. It is an amazing place and being that sports are so big in the area it could be tremendously prosperous...

Rock on gazettefan. we should open are on store up. thats would be so awesome.

Bring on the sliders!!!

I vote with the people that wants a WHITE CASTLE!!!!!! its what you crave.

The armory is over priced and the food is average at best. By the way people, making it expensive does not make it good.

i'm all for rocky's, or what about a tilted kilt.

Chainsville, thats funny. We just need some newer, more sophisticated places. BW3s is a good start. Rockys would be very sophisticated! Maybe a few more "parade of pig"(buffet) places too!! No, really BW3s will be awsome!!! Anyone try the 1855 Saloon in cottage grove yet?

RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER RED LOBSTER PLEASE THANK YOU

For some reason I just can not imagine why having dinner and then seeing Sweeney Todd would be appealing. Call me crazy, but it would make me think twice about the food that I was eating.

I was so excited when I read this article. Boo to all you people who want other restaurants. Yes Panera is amazing, but Buffalo Wild Wings is awesome too! I go to school in Oshkosh and everytime I come back to Janesville I tell my parents about the BBW there, now they can experience it! Yay! :)

I have yet to go to the Armory but thanks for the update. I look forward to it. I here it draws people from miles away as well.

The Armory is NOT closing! There are more than enough peopole in the Janesville area that appreciate a good meal and show. For those of you wondering, the 2009 lineup is as follows: Always Patsy Cline- Jan. 15-March 1. Guys and Dolls- March 12- April 26. Show Boat- Sept. 10- Oct. 25. A Wonderful Life- Nov. 5- Dec. 27. I just saw Sweeny Todd and it was AWESOME! The Armory is worth every cent.

Irish, Sounds great, bowling, pool maybe even a card room and great food with several ethnic specialties cooked fresh! Let's do it. maybe one of the three lanes will be available soon?
That really would be a nice change for whole family. Maybe less folks would take kids to bars and parties for their quality time.

duecerider1976, I wish there were a nonsmoking bowling alley (that's right, bowling alley) in town. Now, couple that bowling alley with delicious, fresh, not-bar-food fare for people who love GOOD food, and I think you would have a gold mine. Families could bowl, it could be a date place, a place for friends, and the "bar" part could be kept to a minimum. I've heard of such places in larger cities and I think it sounds like a lot of fun. Probably a lot of outlay, though.

Lame

I love local restaurants. I have been working for local restaurants for 16 years. Nobody supports good locals like Roherty's and we have too many crappy ones like the Bistro, who has horrible service and I'm sure will be closing soon. My goal in life is to open a bar and grill but who says you have to serve "bar food" at a bar? But there is no way I would try to compete with "chainsville". Any suggestions?

mgmgrand: very well stated with getting out a little!

why rocky rococco's again?? they closed a while ago... that's like saying we need another pizza hut?? let's get an oriental restaurant that cooks the food right at your table?? how fresh/greasy is your meal tonight?? that or for those that like greasy, a Popeye's, LJS (again), Sonic, White Castle, or TGI Friday's...

I'm glad KFC will get a better setup. I always felt bad watching the drive-thru attendants lean so far across that window to hand me my order. (No, I guess I didn't feel bad enough to give up their yummy chicken.)

*slurp*

mgm- not sure if monteray jacks was a chain in madison but it was very good and it is gone too.

take a drive and try Sanford in milwaukee also very good.

French country Inn in cant remember lake geneva. before you get to lake geneva.

yes sorry all that think $100 for 2 w/o drinks is too much. you pay for service and good food.
I hope the armory is a rumar of closing . I like it and the shows and service is very good.

Rose bud on Taylor in Chicago is a must try as well.

mgm- yes a greek restaurant would be aweson-
We went to one in phonix called Alexis- YUMMY!!!! I agree specialty restaurants!! something unique.
Also wild ginger in Seattle YYUUUUMMMYYY!!!

Out of curiosity, looked up what it would cost to open a Long John Silvers. You have to have big bucks. Your talking around 2 or 3 million dollars and then you still have to come up with the funds to run the place, training, etc..
Would be nice to go out to a restaurant that has a tablecloth on the table.
Glad KFC is remodeling. My biggest complaint was the parking lot. Talk about pothole heaven!

there was a red lobster here once back in 70s but it didnt work then, so why would it work now

How about another auto parts store we seem to be running short on them around here. O wait a min there is another one going up where REX was.duh....

Rocky's didn't last here because the rent was too high for that building.

jtmek - you are right. Janesville will not support it. There was a polish deli on Milwaukee Street by Blackhawk bank. It only lasted about 6 months.
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WAKE UP JANESVILLE!!! There is better food out there that doesn't come from a chain restaurant.

How do we play this game? We mention a restaurant, and if it comes to town, do we win the pool or what?
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It would be a sore blow if the Armory closes. I hope that's just a wild rumor between shows. Sweeney Todd is scheduled to close Oct. 19 and then followed by Forever Plaid into the Christmas season. They have probably already sold tickets and would have to refund customers. I'm not sure when the 2009 season would be announced, but I would imagine in this economy they'll have to take a long hard look at the numbers.

mgm, I 2nd the idea of a good Indian restaurant! I doubt Janesville would support it, but it'd sure be tasty.

Here is the problem with Janesville. The people of Janesville has no taste. This is a town that likes the chain restaurants. It is evident by the comments. Bring in Red Lobster, Rocky's, Chili's, etc. Granted I like those restaurants too. But how about something different. How a bout a Greek restaurant. One that serves authentic Greek food. Not from the family restaurants. Real Greek food. We have enough Chinese and Mexican restaurants. How about something different.
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Of course one will open, but no one will patronize it, and it will close in 6 months.
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Indian (India) food is really good too. There are some good restaurants in Madison that serves that kind of food..
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People!! Go to Madison and try something different. Something new. Take the drive to enjoy something that is not the same at every single chain restaurant.

I think Janesville should get a White Castle!!!!

yes why did rococos fail? i believe ther eis one in FOrt now. and why did cinabon fail? no corn place in mail anymore either, no nut shop where have all the good places gone??

memyself- youre correct- wedge in has AWESOME cin roll and STICKY buns- but go early to be sure you get one.

If you are looking for a great Cinnamon Roll just try a local restaurant, Wedge In East, on East Milwaukee Street. It is better to support the local businesses.

mac grill closed in Madison and it wasn't even open for 2 years. The Janesville area, I'm afraid, wouldn't generate enough interest to have The Melting Pot come in either.
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It's not really a restaurant, but how about a Cinnabon again? Madison has NONE :( So, the closest are Rockford and Milwaukee.

I'd vote for a Macaroni Grill. There was one in a previous town of residence. It has atmosphere where you can dress up if you want, or wear jeans. Prices are reasonable for those with families to feed. You can bring little kids, but you can also go on a date there. Good food. No tv's though.

Better yet, can the local chamber of commerce take a more formal survey to send to franchiser's or other interested parties?

I suggest watching the Sox/Twins game at Legends...

The Melting Pot is so expensive!! My sister and husband went to celebrate their anniversary and spent $120.00...just two people. No alcoholic beverages were ordered.

I agree with getting a Rocky Rococo's. That was so long ago that we had one. It'd be great to be able to buy quality pizza by the slice. I bet it would do well over the lunch hour. And at least it's a Wisconsin-centric chain...

How about a Rocky Rococo again? And The Melting Pot would also get alot of business.

Any recommendations on where to watch the Sox/Twins game tonight?

glock...., what exactly did you hear about the Armory closing?

4 months of negotiating what? Maybe the city wanted a bank there instead? That corner is lacking banks.

After January 1st veterans can go to the old Shakey's Pizza building to be treated for the high cholesterol problems they got from eating at Shakey's!

Word is that the Armory is closing soon.
I would like to see a Chili's here

Anyone else wanna rename Janesvilles motto "City of Parks" to "City of Restaurants"? :-)

Long-time: I get tired of people always thinking G.M. people ARE just loaded.Don't you think these people invested enough in this town??plus(their lives) to a company that got scr---- by the government,just like every one else. You invest in whatever you want,Most people DON'T have money to invest!!

It seems like most new KFC restaurants are combined with Long John Silver's like the ones in Beloit and Machesney Park. Should we speculate the new store on Milton Ave will be a KFC/LJS combo?????

Ruby Tuesday or anything with a salad bar!!!!

talk talk- funny then you could price shop THREE in the same block. I dont get WHAT IS WITH ALL the auto parts stores??? Rex will be a second ORiley's.

shakeys building is going to be heath care of some kind. There was just an article on it recently.

gabby- is sonic bette rthan their commercials??? theyre so lame and weird.

woodsman - what are you referring too? Invest in what? Hate on what?

what we really need is an unemployment walk in office.

long-time: So you still got the hate going on!! Why don't YOU invest,seeing your full of it,or maybe it's just AIR 7 HATE!!

I would love to see Sonic come to Janesville. I also would not ming an In and Out but they are only out west!

jvl53547 - L'Etoile in Madison? Are you kidding? 2 people cannot eat there for less than $100. Get a cluse to where you live and the incomes and (no) job security of your neighbors.

You'd think one of those GM autoworkers who took the early retirement money would reinvest in a food franchise - Janesville may not have good paying jobs in the future, but they will always support fat peoples' eating habits.

I think we should change the name Janesville to Chainsville.
It is a shame that all we ever get is chain restaurants.
Some of the best (non-chain) restaurants are The Armory (Janesville), The Brio (Rockford), Central Coast (Fort Atkinson) and L'Etoile (Madison).

The old taco bell could be a cash advance place, we're short on those too.

50 comments so far on restaurants moving in, you wisconsin people are so cool

http://gazettextra.com/news/2008/jul/18/...
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My mistake. What's going on with the Wisconsin Turf location?

Maybe they could make the old Taco Bell on Milton Avenue a bank or an auto parts store. We don't have any of those.

The the Hardees on court was razed for the new O'Rielly Auto, and now the jiffy lube on court is empty.

Momo the old Hardee's on court st is now o'reily auto parts

crisblue: Shakey's will be a VA clinic soon.
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BW3's is growing very quickly. Qdoba, Panera or Chipotle would be nice for Janesville to have.
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There was some chatter a bit ago about the old Hardee's spot on Court Street. Any new developments or rumors?

No peanuts lots of wings, beer and tv's

hey ... people that have been to a buffalo wild wings... just looked at the menu.. im impressed.. prices are decent too...

My question.. IS THIS ANOTHER PEANUT SHELL ALL OVER THE GROUND PLACE?

my daughter is allergic to peanuts and as much as we LOVE the roadhouse we cant go there.. so I wanted to know if im gettin excited for nothing...

thanks to anyone who responds

Great for Buffalo Wild Wings. Hooters has just not been the same when they once opened. I was their last night and waiting longer to get my order in when the time was shorter to find out the Brewers won the Wild Card

I vote for anything BUT a White Castle.

I also love Sonic, it is super yummy

sounds good! should be fun! I second that for the SONIC! MMMM those commercials drive me insane! We went to Missouri a few yrs back and I saw a Sonic and finally got to try it.. course we werent there long so i wanted everything on the menu cuz it all looks so good.. but i didnt get my way! ;-)

What about the Old Shakeys building? that would be a great location for something romantic.... or something... since its off the beaten path a little.

Good luck Janesville. Mmmm Im hungry

Irishbychoice: I would appreciate a Panera, but would love an Atlanta Bread Co.!!!

Leroy, that is terrible. you are terrible. you should be completely ashamed of that statement, very racist

I think if K F C is gonna to build a new store I think it should have a buffet like the one in Beloit had it would draw more custmers and it would be a great thing for families that can not afford to go there a lot.Good Luck to the owner and I hope he puts some comment cards out for his custmers to give the opinion cause that would be a great thing.

Thank God KFC is remodeling. That place is DISGUSTING inside.

Its about time Janesville got a place like this. The one in Monona has 27 tvs, plenty to watch the Brew Crew on next year. And of course, the best wings anywhere!!!

Screemin Meemies didn't have one. But they did want to put a sports bar style restraunt in the rice bowl on 51 and no licenses were available.

WOOOOOO HOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ethnic and fried chicken should not be in the same sentence.

I had heard talk of a TGIFridays going in by Menards.

Did Screemin Meemies lose their liqour license?

All it takes to get a restaurant in town is the money, the market and the will.

If a chain sees a market they'll move in. If they think the market is too crowded they'll wait until there are changes.

If you're looking at a franchise then you should be the one to step up and take on the risk. The owners of the KFC should be applauded for sinking beaucoup bucks into their franchise. You can register that applause at the drive-through.

I thought the city was out of liquor licenses?

Two words:

Qdoba

(I realize that's one word)

Portillos bring one up from Chicago. WAY better beef and dogs than that Deli Dog House crap

Melting Pot, pricey but romantic and delicious!

I'd kinda like to see a Dave & Buster's.

"Rusty" If no one can afford to go out, why is there a wait every Friday and Saturday evening to get seated?? Maybe You can not afford to go out. Many people say how bad the economy is but the Brewers had 3 million people who would disagree.

I've never been to this place but I've heard they are awesome. I hope Sonic takes the old Taco Bell. I used to live with one right down the street from me, they are sooooo goood. And of course they play the commercials here but the closest one is two hours away. I'm glad KFC is redoing its place. It was getting kinda gross in there. Has been for a while. I wish this town would get a "romantic" restraunt for mom's and dad's that don't want to go to Madison or Rockford.

why not Chili's or Red Lobster??

Didn't the gazette report a while back that Panera was coming to Janesville and it would be built near the new Menards along with a few others?

White Castle.

Heck Ya!!!!!! Dont judge BWW until you go to one.... this place is great!!! I have never been to a place like this until I went to the one in Madison this nothing like a Hooters you get great food with tons of choices for your wings...yes its another sports bar but you cant smoke in there because its a restauraunt. I would love a Panera too so I say lets start a petion...

As if people can afford going out all that much with the economy like it is.

Yes, hoping for Chipolte or Panera!!

I, too, have been hoping for a Panera for a VERY long time. But, obviously Janesville doesn't have enough burger or taco places yet....

Oh, goody, another sports-burger-joint. Am I the only person in Janesville who would appreciate a Panera, a Baja Express, or a Chipotle?