On Jan. 11, Bank Street Café and Grill officially re-opened its doors under new management after being closed for three months.
The property was recently purchased by Joe Petralia, a former carpenter determined to renovate the restaurant. Petralia completely reinvented the café by installing new equipment and revamping the entire building, completing much of the work himself.
"It's a completely new business," Petralia said. "New menu, new owner, new Bank Street."
The revitalized menu features breakfast and lunch items including platters, sandwiches and burgers. Daily specials are offered on a rotating basis, and Petralia plans on hosting a pancake eating contest to complement all-you-can-eat pancake Wednesdays.
The newly renovated building hosts many booths, an open kitchen and a large dining room that can be reserved for private functions. The café also boasts a fireplace, multiple widescreen televisions and free wireless Internet for visitors.
"I wanted visitors to have a warm feeling when they come in," Petralia said. "It's a nice atmosphere. We wanted it to feel like a second home to students."
Business has been booming for the café, but specific weekly hours have not yet been finalized. "I want to get a feel for the needs of the town before establishing steady hours," Petralia said, adding that he plans to extend hours on Saturday nights to cater to college students. The restaurant is open every day except Monday.