Local Investors' Goal Accomplished to Preserve Local Gathering Spot
Prost!
The Busted Cup, a popular downtown Burlington, Iowa brewhouse, is venturing into Macomb, with the goal of opening April 1, in the site of the former Forgottonia Brewery on Lafayette Street.
According to Lance Murphy of Macomb, one of the partners behind LKG LLC, they decided to purchase the Forgottonia building – what once was home to the wellknown Rockin Robin’s/ Rockin Records – from its former owners because he and his colleagues are deeply rooted in the community, and felt strongly about preserving a local gathering space for years to come. Forgotonnia closed its doors Dec. 28, 2024 after a fiveplus year run.
“This brewery was created to bring people together, a place to enjoy good company in both indoor and outdoor settings. We recognized the history of this location and the energy it once held, and we were motivated to help bring that spirit back to life,” Murphy shared.
They began looking for a business, preferably a restaurant or brewery, interested in leasing the place. The Busted Cup answered that call.
“As we searched for the right business to invest in, we knew we wanted something welcoming to all ages, space where families and kids could gather during the day, and adults could enjoy a vibrant atmosphere in the evening,” he added. “Our partnership with The Busted Cup felt like perfect timing. While we were looking to revitalize the space, they were seeking an opportunity to expand beyond their Burlington, IA home base.”
Kathy and Brandon Bentz opened The Busted Cup Brewhouse in the 700 block of Jefferson Street in Burlington in September 2023. The couple also owns Poppie’s Specialty Market in the same building as their Burlington restaurant. In addition, they own and operate Fusion Tech in Roseville, which specializes in USDA-approved equipment (slicers, grinders, cutting tables and much more). As for the name of their restaurant/ brewhouse, it actually originated following an incident in Macomb, the couple told WQAD Channel 8 News in a May 2024 interview.
“It’s a family joke. We were in a movie theater in Macomb and they had just put in new plate glass windows and a guy carrying a Styrofoam cup walked right into the window, his thumb went through his cup and Coke shot out all over him,” they laughed. “When we were going through names for the restaurant, one of our daughters said busted cup.”
Ultimately, LKG’s goal has always been to keep the brewery open and thriving as a cornerstone for McDonough County.
“We’re excited to partner with a respected local business known for its inviting atmosphere, great food, friendly staff and exceptional beer,” Murphy concluded. “We can’t wait to share what’s ahead this spring.”
