East side Madison’s Daisy Cafe & Cupcakery is closing on Aug. 26 after 15 years in business, the Wisconsin State Journal reports. Owners Daryl Sisson and his wife, Kathy Brooks, opened the cafe in May 2009 at 2827 Atwood Ave. They cited a recent drop in business behind the decision to close.
The restaurant saw improvement following the COVID-19 pandemic. The couple spent $17,000 to repave the parking lot early in the pandemic, as well as $3,000 on outdoor seating for 84. Outdoor business was strong enough that the business stopped serving dinner to focus on breakfast and lunch.
High food costs due to inflation and a rise in rent also contributed to the business’ closure. Daisy’s roughly 20 employees were informed on Sunday.
