October 3, 2021 – West Bend, WI – TOCHI Ramen, 705 Village Green Way, in West Bend has closed.
TOCHI executive chef and owner Gregg Desrosier opened the “modern Asian fusion restaurant” in October 2015.
The 44-seat restaurant was known for its Japanese ramens including Shio, Tonkotsu, Shōyu, and Miso and its punk-rock image.
“Yes, the rumors are true,” said Desrosier in a post on social media. “Saturday was our last night of service at the West Bend location. We are going to focus on our place in Sheboygan with a new menu but the same concept.”
Desrosier first opened a Cajun restaurant in West Bend in 2002. Muddy’s on Main, 111 S. Main Street, was in business through 2007.
Desrosier then headed south to Shorewood and later returned to West Bend in 2015 opening TOCHI in the former location of Imagine Coffee House.
TOCHI introduced a unique menu to the area and served it with artistic flair that included everything from the music to artwork to tables.
“We went to Kettle Moraine Hardwood and found this piece of black walnut and then we started thinking if we could find a tree 30-inches across we could have our tables all come from one tree,” Desrosier said.
The final product is from a 119-year-old tree that was felled in northern Wisconsin. “When all the tables are pushed together you can see the grains match up,” he said.
“This was not an easy decision by any means. Our hearts are heavy with disappointment. We, and, when I say we, our staff is included, have worked so hard to try and keep doing what we do. Keeping quality and service a priority. Our staff is the best! Ashley, Jacci, Katie, Ella, Desiree, Amy, Kaitlyn, Addie, Sarah Liam and everyone that has made this a great restaurant. Our past staff too… Thanks to all of you that have supported us! We can’t thank you enough. See you in Sheboygan! Chef Gregg and Chef Lucy”