Zins to celebrate year back from the flood

June 11 is a historic day for Zins restaurant, 227 Second Ave. SE.

In 2008, the restaurant closed its doors that day when downtown businesses were  evacuated as the Cedar River continued to rise to historic levels.

In 2009, Zins reopened its doors June 11 after a year of rebuilding from the devasting flood.

This year, Zins will mark its one-year reopening anniversary on, of course, June 11.

Zins is planning a “Back from the Flood” first anniversary celebration with specials the weekend of June 11-13.

At 4:15 p.m. June 11, there will be a ceremonial removal of the “We're Back” banner from the building.

“We're just here, not only back,” says Amy Wyss, Zins co-owner and executive chef. “It's time to get back to business for another year.”

Zins has concocted three different cocktails to simulate each day of the weekend, Wyss says.

“We tried to make drinks that look like river water, but certainly taste better,” she says.

From 4:15 to 5:15 p.m. June 11, “Evacuation Happy Hour” cocktails and free appetizers will be served at the bar. Jasmine will play live music from 6 to 9 p.m. From 7 to 8 p.m. co-owner Lee Belfield will be dressed at the Zins Grape posing for pictures.

The theme for Saturday, June 12, is “Rising Waters: 41.5 Inches.” A prix-fixe dinner for two will be served for $41.50 with “Rising Waters” cocktails.

“The Crest: A Triumphant Champagne Brunch” is the theme for Sunday, June 13, the anniversary of the day the river crested in 2008.

Wyss wanted the themes to be goofy and fun as businesses continue to recover from the flood.

“What doesn't kill you makes you stronger,” is her philosophy.

For more information about the celebration at Zins, call (319) 363-9467 or visit

http://zinsrestaurant.com/