The Loop Cafe was originally a basic Milwaukee eatery and "super bar" operated from 1947 to 1963 by former police officer Charles Kohel. After relocating across the street in 1963, the Loop became a popular pre-Stonewall destination for gay men, lesbians, and gender non-conforming queens. The café, known for horrible food, coffee, and service, was a key gathering spot for LGBTQ youth and unhoused, neither of whom had anywhere to go. The Loop closed in 1971, became The Lib Bookstore, and was demolished in 1986.