Dear Dave Pilarski, Gee Lofstead, and Mark Bardwil:
When we first heard about you and your acquisition of the former TJ’s Sports Garden – not goin’ lie – we were inherently skeptical because (1) it was change, (2) you were new, and, well, (3) we’re pretty picky eaters.
And now, here we are just a couple of months later, and not only have you transformed the long-time restaurant into a welcoming, comfortable spot, but you’ve quickly become valued members of our community.
How? Easy. Collectively, you’re the “new owners” everyone hoped you’d be.
· You respected and worked well with the previous owner.
· You immediately offered every employee a position.
· You continued – and upgraded – the sports bar theme.
· You retained a few fan favorites on your menu.
· Your food – like the crab dip, the meatballs, the shrimp po’boy, the burgers, and entrees like the Chicken Vera Cruz – is delicious.
· And each of you take the time to meet your patrons and listen to their ideas, their critiques, and to tell the story about when the three of you became friends as Linsly students more than 40 years ago and then how you came together decades later to create The Wheel at 808 National Road.
Of course, the best eateries evolve over time, and that’s why we appreciate what your website menu states at the top – “Our menu, like life, is subject to change”. Amen, and that’s why we’re anxious to taste your new flavors in the future, and to watch how your positive presence grows in the Wheeling area.
Well done, gentlemen, and thank you for your investment in Wheeling’s future.
Sincerely,
Full Bellies & Satisfied Palates
