MILWAUKEE — After nine decades in business, Mazos Hamburgers announced on Facebook it is closing its doors. 

What You Need To Know

  • Mazos Hamburgers announced it's closing after 90 years of service on Sunday on Facebook

  • The Mazos family said they made the difficult decision due to health and well-being needs of their family

  • They thanked all of their customers for their support through the years adding it’s been a privilege to serve them

The Mazos’ family said they made the difficult decision due to health and well being needs of their family. They thanked all of their customers for their support through the years adding it’s been a privilege to serve them.

The burger joint on 27th Street is right across the street from Leon’s Frozen Custard. Gina Cocen's grandfather started the business and her father currently is the owner. She has been employed there for the past 25 years. 

“We found out they were closing and we’re all kind of teary about it,” said Cocen. “Sometimes we send our kids over on their break to get us burgers too.” 

She said it’s popular for folks to grab a burger at Mazos and walk across the street to Leon’s for dessert. 

“I’ve been going there since I was a kid,” said Cocen. “My dad used to bring me to work with him in the office. We’d go and get lunch and bring them back here.”

The Mazos burgers are known for holding memories, especially for Steve Rouze.

“I had a girlfriend who had to drag me there. Well, she didn’t have to drag me,” said Rouze. “She loved it and she introduced me to it, and I agreed with her. It was very good.”

While the establishment is nostalgic for many, it’s a new favorite for Davie Cuevas. He recently moved his business, World Class King’s Parlor, a few doors down the block. 

“The owner would take his morning stroll and we would talk,” said Cuevas. “I’d let him know the burger is like no burger I’d ever have before. You can feel the love in the burger. The fries are awesome. I just like the feel of the burger the way it tastes. It’s a good burger. It’s not a burger you’d forget.”

A bittersweet ending for many, but Cocen is thankful for getting to grow up next door to Mazos. 

“It’s been a staple here for 90 years,” said Cocen. “We’ve been here for over 80. A little piece of our heart is leaving.”

The symmetry between the two Milwaukee staples was easy to see, not only with their proximity, but they both brought customers back in time with their vibe. That is something many in the community will miss with Mazos now closed.