Saturday, July 18, marked the last day of business for Zanzibar, the “Pan-Tropical” restaurant on 216 S. State St. known fondly since 1996 for its colorful murals, sprawling brunches, and signature cocktails.

Owing to a business environment he described as “lethal,” operating partner Dick Schubach said the cost of maintaining such a large space (Zanzibar has two floors as well as an outdoor area in the summer) finally overwhelmed sinking revenues.

“We have right now what I think is the best lunch menu we’ve ever had, but we’ve still seen a 50-percent decline in our lunchtime business in the last year,” he said.

Schubach and his partners, who also own Red Hawk Bar and Grill just down the street, explored the possibility of shrinking the restaurant’s space to save on long-term operating costs, but, he says, such a renovation would cost a lot up front and “no banks are lending to restaurants right now.”

Schubach added he and his partners were planning to open a coffee shop cum bistro by E. University and Willard, by the old Red Hot Lovers space, which is presently seeking a new home for its renowned Chicago-style hot dogs.

I confessed to Schubach it was really my fault Zanzibar was closing, as I didn’t eat there much (maybe twice in four years). But for those with fond memories of the place, here is a loving tribute from a former regular. To pay your respects, see Zanzibar’s Facebook page here.