Landlord Ed Walker, who transformed the old Patrick Henry Hotel into a mixed-use project that includes apartments several years ago, held a big party earlier this week as Henry’s Public House had its official grand opening after a 10-day soft opening period.
General Manager West Robison, a member of the family that also owns the Wasena City Tap Room and Wildflour on 4th Street, did the honors.
Henry’s offers moderately priced American fare said Robison, also a co-owner and the son of founder Doug Robison. West came over from the Wasena Tap Room to run Henry’s and recruited a chef from Wildflour to make the transition with him.
Henry’s will serve lunch and dinner, with many sandwiches and salads in the ten dollar or less range; a full menu is also available at the lounge in the Patrick Henry lobby that was formerly known as the Penny Deux bar.
“We want it to become a great neighborhood restaurant and bar where people can hang out and feel welcome – feel at home,” said Robison. He envisions a lunchtime “quick service” and dinner selections where people can take longer to enjoy the cuisine that includes pasta and meat dishes.
Feedback during the soft opening period before Monday’s ribbon cutting was “good,” said Robison. “I feel really confident about the place. I think people will really enjoy it and [it will] become an awesome part of the community.” Henry’s succeeds the more upscale – and pricier – First & Sixth bistro, which closed earlier this year.
