3 minute read
Anna’s Gathering Place Receiving Rave Reviews
Anna’s Gathering Place Receiving Rave Reviews
Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser
Saturday morning. The rush of breakfast crowd is over at Anna’s Gathering Place, but there’s still half a dozen vehicles parked outside Anna-Lee Laderoute’s downtown restaurant in the Village of Andrew.
Inside the entrance is a guest book with rave reviews from customers since officially opening her eating establishment in early June. While she’s never owned her own restaurant, Anna-Lee has had around 15 years of experience in the service industry as a waitress. She says, “I’ve always liked being my own boss, and i really enjoy the service industry. It’s nice to meet so many people and hear their stories.”
Over the past three years, she and her dad Milton, were kept busy renovating the building that dates back to 1903. It first business was a meat locker. It also served as a MacLeod’s store and other restaurants over the years.
“We are slowly getting closer to my vision of the restaurant. As for the decor, I wanted it to feel homey and welcoming. There is always something new to look at, fountains and my favorite, plants. I wanted it to be unique and be full of conversation pieces.”
Soon they will be extending operating hours to include a supper menu and will have daily specials with soup and homemade breads. “We worked through lots of kinks; but we have a great team that is passionate and willing to try new things.
We currently have five staff plus myself, my mom (Sheila), two daughters (Tayla and Laramie) and I have two friends (Hannah & Jackie) who volunteer their time to help me and help the business be successful.”
While Anna-Lee says it has been a struggle to juggle her fulltime job as lodge manager and restauranteur, she does have “two amazing teams that are like family and makes it all worth it. Like most things there is the odd hiccup but overall it works and that's all that matters.
The most gratifying thing would be; watching how hard my daughters worked and have worked to help make this possible. They are both passionate and incredibly helpful. I would not be able to do it if it wasn't for them. They help grocery shopping, putting everything away, prep work, dishes. You name it, and they help no problem with a smile.”
