If you've heard talk lately of a delicious new restaurant in Wawota, it's true. 2nd Street Eats opened on July 15 and has been serving up fine dining at its best ever since.
Gerald and Kristine Duff, Gerald originally from Estevan and Kristine of Wawota, made the decision to open their own restaurant to be able to spend more time together, as their schedules often conflicted, and to have something of their own to work at; a very rewarding experience.
Gerald has 20 years of know-how when it comes to cooking with the last four spent at the Kenosee Inn. Kristine had been fixing computers and working as a hairdresser in Wawota, with customers now asking when they'll be expanding to service these needs as well. The two decided the time had come to look for something of their own that would make them both happy and the idea of this restaurant was born.
Calling the owner of the Wawota Village Inn they discussed the option of purchasing the restaurant and 12 room motel. The Duff's took possession on July 1, where they began to renovate their new establishment.
"It was ready for a change. We wanted it to look completely different because it is a different place," Kristine explained.
Since they were hoping to bring something different to the area Gerald discussed different menu items with a chef from Sysco Foods in Regina. Together they were able to come up with a menu, which boasts great classic meals and a wide variety of new eats including one of their most popular items, the 2nd St. Brisket Sandwich.
Another unique aspect besides the menu is the fact that for those located in Wawota, pizza delivery is an option. Open from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m., one is able to dine at anytime without having to worry about it closing early. For the first couple of weeks they were open, through the end of July, a supper rush would come at 4:30 p.m., but now knowing they are open late the supper rush has been pushed back to about 7 p.m.
Between housekeeping and the restaurant they employ nine people. As a family restaurant their children are helping out as well.
Overall their goal is to create a pleasant atmosphere with great service and fantastic food. A large part of the experience at 2nd Street Eats is the service.
"You can have the best food in the world, anywhere, but service is extremely important. You have to keep the customers happy, looked after, and full," Gerald said, while Kristine added, "We always make sure there's enough on their plates, so far the only complaint we've had is that there's too much food."
Wanting to make sure people don't go away hungry is important to the couple, so they make sure each plate has a good portion. In addition to a meal that will not let you go hungry, the cooks in the back are well-trained so each plate is done the same. It will taste delicious and look wonderful no matter who is cooking that day.
Many customers have also commented on the fact that the servers are all dressed in black. If you need anything during your meal, it is easy to find someone to help. This also fits with the decor and fine dining experience available at 2nd Street Eats creating a wonderful atmosphere where "down home cookin' is served up big city style."
They've begun to draw in a regular crowd both for meals and the mandatory coffee breaks at 7 a.m. and 2 p.m., which the Duff's enjoy greatly as they are often able to chat with their customers throughout the day.
Offering different specials every night, except Saturday's, they offer great deals. Sunday's are host to a morning brunch and a supper buffet, there is no menu this evening but pizza is still available for take away. Monday boasts a 20 percent off deal on pizza for those who dine-in.
Taco Tuesday offers an all you can eat taco bar, Wednesday's run half-price appetizers, while Thursday's are promoted as "Dine in for Two." This means any two entrees and your choice of appetizer or desserts is available at $35.95. Finally Friday is prime rib night.
Important to the Duff's is the community. They are looking forward and are eager to be involved with community events. One way they are able to do this is with their "Supper in the Field." A contest for farmers to enter their names and win a meal in the field, delivered free of charge, consisting of fried chicken, lemon roasted potatoes, salad, drinks, and dessert for six people.
The draw will run every Thursday between Aug. 23 and Sept. 20, so stop by to enter your name.
Their full menu is available online both at www.2ndstreeteats.com and through their facebook page, 2nd Street Eats. Here there are also updates, thank you's, and new features promoted including mueganos, deep fried dough drizzled with honey, on Taco Tuesday's.
The Duff's hope to see you soon to enjoy "family dining, on the 'finer side.'"
