‘I’ve been here since I was eight years old’: Madison icon Knoche’s butcher shop closing after 84 years

Taigu Chinese Restaurant to move in

MADISON, Wis. — After 84 years and three generations, Knoche’s Old Fashioned Butcher Shop will be closing its doors for good on October 15.

It was announced Tuesday that Taigu, a Chinese restaurant currently in Middleton, has purchased the shop at 5372 Old Middleton Road and will convert the butcher shop and grocery store in the coming weeks.

68-year-old Steve Knoche, who has owned the store with his wife Stephanie for 25 years, says it was time to retire.

“I’ve been here since, you know, since I was eight years old stocking shelves for Grandpa. So I’m going to turn 69 this month. So it’s been a long run, you know, and 55 years full-time,” Knoche said.

Steve’s grandfather, George, passed the business down to Steve’s father, who in turn passed it down to him. Steve’s two grown children have no interest in keeping the business, so it was time to sell it.

Long-time customers are flocking into the store now, stocking up on Knoche’s legendary ground beef and prime steaks. Knoche’s also has a wholesale business supplying meat to nearly 65 restaurants and bars. They have been working with those clients, getting help finding new suppliers.

Anyone with a store gift card should be sure to use it before the doors close for good on October 15, the Knoches said.

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