Sale of Von Trier is dead; bar reopens Wednesday

When owner Mark Eckert closed the doors to Von Trier, 2235 N. Farwell Ave., "for good" the last Monday of September, it was a well-known secret that Diablos Rojos -- owners of Cafe Hollander, Trocadero, Cafe Centraal and other Milwaukee hot spots -- was eyeing the space.

Rumor was that the plan was to clean up the place and add a kitchen, but to maintain the German character of Von Trier.

Now, a well-placed source, who asked to remain anonymous, says the deal is dead.

Eckert told OnMilwaukee.com that he plans to reopen the bar for business on Wednesday.

Last week, it seems, the deal to purchase Von Trier -- which has been a fixture on the East Side for more than 30 years -- fell apart.

According to the source, the prospective new owners hoped to open up again in time for Thanksgiving but "there was a major last-minute snafu and the deal is dead."

Another potential deal -- not involving Diablos Rojos -- is apparently being discussed.

Mike Eitel of Diablos Rojos did not immediately return requests for comment.