Sam's Place Jazz Café closes its doors after nearly 5 years in Harambee neighborhood

Updated: Feb. 20, 2026

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Sam's Place Jazz Café officially closed its doors Friday, Feb. 20, after nearly five years serving Milwaukee's Harambee neighborhood. 

The cafe made the announcement Tuesday, Feb. 17, citing economic challenges.

“While this chapter is coming to a close, what we built together will always live on, in the relationships formed with neighbors, the memories shared with patrons, and the community we were honored to serve. We remain hopeful about what’s next and grateful for the journey,” said founder and owner Sam Belton.

In a notice on their website, the cafe thanked the community, saying in part:

"This place was never just about food and the best coffee around. It was about connection, culture, and community. We are endlessly thankful to everyone who walked through our doors, shared a meal, enjoyed the best coffee in town, celebrated milestones, and made memories here. Though the doors may close, the spirit of this place lives on through every story, every relationship, and every life it touched."

Regular customers stopped in Friday morning to bid farewell to the staff.

Belton opened the business in February of 2021 after Bader Philanthropies purchased and restored the building, turning the cafe into a haven for home-roasted coffee, hot meals, and live music. 

"I have mixed feelings, but I have to do what I have to do, you know," Belton said. "I have a wife and grown children that have grandchildren, and I have good health. I want to keep my good health."

Belton plans to continue playing and teaching jazz music around the city and will continue his small batch roasting company, Abyssinia Coffee Roasters, with online sales.