Lakewood’s beloved Bruno’s European Restaurant is set to close its doors this Saturday, marking the end of a 16‑year run that brought hearty German‑Polish fare to the community. The family‑owned eatery, which earned national attention after appearing on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive‑Ins and Dives in 2013, announced the decision after owners Krystyna and Bruno Tomaszewska determined they could not commit to a new five‑year lease and needed to focus on their health.
Owners cite health and lease challenges
Krystyna, now in her late 70s, and Bruno, in his late 60s, told the Tacoma News Tribune that the demanding nature of restaurant work no longer fit their personal circumstances. “We’ve loved serving this community for decades, but it’s time for us to retire and take care of ourselves,” the couple said. The decision was communicated to the roughly ten‑person staff during an Oktoberfest celebration on Sept. 26, prompting an outpouring of gratitude from longtime patrons.
Signature dishes that won national praise
Bruno’s menu featured a range of traditional European comfort foods, most famously its “hangover soup.” The broth‑rich soup, packed with meat, sausage, pork loin, potatoes, mushrooms, carrots, celery, leeks, onions, garlic, crushed tomatoes, dill pickles, and a dollop of sour cream, was highlighted by Diners, Drive‑Ins and Dives as the standout item. Other fan favorites included a beef roulade, a three‑schnitzel plate, and a decadent “death by chocolate” cake.
Family legacy continues
While Bruno’s physical location will shutter, the Tomaszewska family’s culinary legacy is set to live on. Their daughter‑in‑law, who runs a Bavarian‑themed restaurant in nearby Black Diamond, plans to continue serving European‑style dishes, ensuring that the family’s passion for authentic, home‑cooked meals remains part of the region’s dining scene.
Community response
Local residents have flocked to the restaurant in its final days, eager to savor the iconic dishes one last time. Many expressed appreciation for the warm hospitality and the sense of “grandma’s kitchen” that Bruno’s cultivated over the years. The closure underscores a broader trend of family‑run establishments facing lease pressures and the challenges of aging ownership.
What’s next for the space?
At this time, the owners have not disclosed plans for the vacant space. City officials have noted that the property will become available for new commercial tenants, and community members hope another local business will step in to fill the culinary void left by Bruno’s.
Bruno’s European Restaurant leaves a lasting imprint on Lakewood’s food landscape, reminding locals of the value of family‑run eateries that blend tradition, flavor, and community spirit.
Original reporting: KIRO 7 (Tacoma / Pierce County stories) — read the source article.
