Der Rheinlander announces closure, building sold to property developer

PORTLAND, Ore. -- Portland institution Der Rheinlander has announced an imminent closure, after their building was sold to a local developer.

The German restaurant, which is hard to miss as you're driving along NE Sandy Boulevard, will close some time during the first quarter of 2017.

Der Rheinlander first opened its doors in 1963, offering staples like fondue, schnitzels and spaetzle. The final sale of the building will go through on Friday, Sept. 30

According to Guten Foods CEO Suzeanne Mager, the company will offer all Der Rheinlander employees positions at other Guten Foods locations in Portland, Tigard, Clackamas, Vancouver and Keizer. A new Gustav's Bargarten is scheduled to open at Cedar Hills Crossing in late 2017.

“We have hosted three, and in some cases four generations of customers at Der Rheinlander,” Mager said. “A number of our employees met their spouses here, started families of their own and, later, some of their children grew up to work in the restaurant themselves. We’ve hosted engagements, wedding rehearsal dinners and receptions; catered anniversaries, wakes and memorials; and provided a venue for holiday parties and celebrations of all kinds— many important milestones and significant life events.”

Mager added employees in good standing will be offered raises.