Nell Benton is the new owner of the National Café and Takeaway in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She got the restaurant for only $100. It’s not often that a successful restaurant sells for such a small amount, but the previous owner said he choose the offer that has the most promise.
Michael Diedrick was the original owner, having started the restaurant three years ago. His goal was to introduce the neighborhood and the city to sustainable models. The business was valued at $50,000. Diedrick said that he received about 25 applications for the restaurant. Obviously, Benton was not the highest offer that Diedrick received; however, the interview sealed the deal. Benton is a 35 year old chef who was unemployed. She was working on a business plan for a catering company when she received the news that Diedrick wanted her to have the restaurant.
Diedrick also owns a internet design company, which is located just three doors away from the café. He originally opened the restaurant with the intention of selling it to the right person, but it took a bit longer than he had originally planned.
There are several conditions that Benton must follow. The staff must be kept, as well the name of the restaurant. The menu stays the same for two years. She also has to keep the restaurant where it is located for at least two years and she must prepare a meal each day for a year for Diedrick and his wife.
Benton takes possession on December 1. She said that it’s the perfect opportunity for her. She earned her degree in culinary arts in Florida, but grew up in the Green Bay area. She has been to Thailand and studying cooking there. The café only offers organic, locally grown food and has become very successful in the neighborhood.
