Product Details

Mint and Unstruck Matchbook from Houlihan's in Wisconsin Houlihan’s Old Place, a pioneer in the 1970s casual dining era featuring eclectic decor, maintained several locations in Wisconsin, primarily in the Milwaukee and Madison areas. Developed by Gilbert/Robinson Inc. starting in 1972, Wisconsin sites were popular in the 80s and 90s, with notable locations formerly operating in areas like Brookfield. The chain, now part of Landry's Inc., has seen significant decline from its peak. Wisconsin History and Highlights Locations: Houlihan's was a staple in suburban Milwaukee for years, with a notable presence mentioned in the Brookfield/Glendale area during the 1980s and 90s. Context: Similar to its locations in other states, the Wisconsin sites were known as "Houlihan's Old Place" during the 70s and 80s—a name stemming from the original Kansas City location being built in an old clothing store. Themed Dining: The restaurants served as a "post-hippie" casual spot that bridged the gap between fine dining and fast food, attracting diners with burgers, cocktails, and quirky decor. Recent Status: While the brand has largely faded from Wisconsin, at one point it was a popular spot for both casual dining and late-night drinks. Many of the older, corporate-owned locations were phased out as the company went through bankruptcies and ownership changes in the 2000s and 2010s.