Paul and Patti Stevenson know a thing or two about the restaurant business. Patti stated, “He’s been cooking for 31 years, and I was pretty much raised with it.”
So when they opened Pauly’s Canton Pub in May of this year, they knew what they were getting into. And so far, it seems to be going well.
Paul had worked as the head cook at Susie’s Roadhouse in Ostrander for the past eight years, and said, “It’s kind of funny how it all came down. We were looking at the Village Square (in Harmony) and that kind of fell through,” but then they found out that the Canton Pub, which had been vacant for two years, was available to rent. He added, “It’s always in the back of your mind, it’d be nice to have your own place some day.”
Patti added that their new business venture is “one last little burst before we get too old to do this.”
The Stevensons have moved around a few times over the years, from western Minnesota. Paul was born in Mantorville, and said he’s happy to be back in southeastern Minnesota.
The Stevensons said their primary business focus, and their motto, is, “Where we treat you like family.” Paul said the menu is a work in progress, but currently includes a wide variety of foods, including burgers, sandwiches, wraps, fish, salads, steaks, shrimp, BBQ ribs, and prime rib.
He added that since they have no salad bar, he offers a wide variety of side items, including potato salad, fresh fruit, macaroni salad, baked beans, macaroni and cheese, cole slaw, and French fries. Paul said he encourages customers to tell him what items they would like, saying, “I try to tell people, it’s your place, what do you want?”
Paul and Patti explained that they currently have five employees who help work at the bar and grill, and family also helps out as needed. The pub is open Wednesdays through Sundays, with the grill opening at 4 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and at 11 a.m. on Fridays through Sundays.
So far, the public is enjoying the new establishment. A few of the many customer comments on their Facebook page include: “Great food, friendly service”, “Very yummy,” “Love the food and atmosphere… Very reasonably priced… Friendly staff. Good place for family outing,” and, “Super fast service and great food.”
When asked what they plan for the future of their pub, Paul stated, “We’re trying to fill a niche.” The pub currently runs a fish special on Fridays, and ribs on Saturdays, with Prime Rib on the second Saturday of each month. He said they’ll do something special this August during Canton Days Off, possibly burgers and brats. And looking ahead, he said depending on what customers want, he may offer Bloody Mary Sundays or other specials during NFL football season. Patti said she plans to offer a “Wine and Canvas” painting event sometime in the winter, and Paul mentioned that he has applied for a license to sell pull tabs as well.
In summary, Paul stated, “We want you to feel comfortable and let us know what you want… As long as things keep going well, I’m planning on being here five or ten years.
Pauly’s Canton Pub is located at 110 N Main in Canton, and the phone number is (507) 743-8228. Whether you want a cold drink, a great meal, friendly conversation, or all of the above, Paul and Patti welcome everyone to stop in and check the place out.
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