Business & Tech

New Cupcake Shop, CBS Scene Named Sports Bar of the Year & More Nearby Restaurant News

A look back at restaurant news and comings and goings in the last month from Southeastern Massachusetts.

We know Foxborough residents don’t just stay in town when they want a night out and a break from cooking.  

Restaurant coming and goings, new business and the best dishes and recipes are among the items that have appeared on Patch sites around the region over the past month.

Below is a look at the restaurant and food stories covered in the past month.

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Foxborough

Cupcake Charlie’s to Open Patriot Place Location on May 18

An award-winning gourmet cupcake bakery with locations in Cape Cod, Plymouth and Newport, R.I., Cupcake Charlie's, will open its third location at Patriot Place on Saturday, May 18. The Foxborough location will be Cupcake Charlie's fourth. The franchise also does business at The Mashpee Commons on Cape Cod, the Plymouth Waterfront in Plymouth and the Brick Market Place down in Newport, R.I.

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Local Restaurant Owners Serve 200 Free Lunches to Area Seniors Each Month

Christine and Jim Kelly have been in the restaurant business their entire lives and consider the local communities they serve at Chickie Flynn's in Foxborough their extended family. The restaurant offers a senior lunch for eight different towns, including Foxborough, Walpole, Wrentham, Plainville, Mansfield, North Attleboro and Medfield. The local restaurant owner said Chickie Flynn takes 24 seniors from each town’s senior center twice a week and prepares and serves them a free lunch – with the exception of a $2.50 gratuity for the wait staff.

CBS Scene at Patriot Place Named 'Sports Bar of the Year'

The Nightclub & Bar Media Group, a leading provider of information and resource for bars, nightclubs and lounges, has named CBS Scene Restaurant & Bar at Patriot Place its “2013 Sports Bar of the Year.” The 2013 Nightclub & Bar Awards were announced in February. The awards program is the “premier national nightlife-industry recognition program for applauding excellence in bar and nightclub concept development, operations, promotion, innovation and success.”

Foxborough Chef to Participate in 5th Annual 'Chef for the Cure' Charity Event

Head chef representative Ben Lacy of Tastings Wine Bar and Bistro in Foxborough participated in the Massachusetts Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure’s fifth annual “Chefs for the Cure” charity event on Thursday, April 11 at The Residences at W Boston.

Walpole

Walpole's Patriot Tavern A Historic Spot with an 'Intimate Atmosphere'

Michael Quinn has been working at the Partiot Tavern in Walpole for the last eight years, calling it a "great change." Quinn said the original manager moved on and he was able to take the job. He said the change from working in public relations and as a teacher was easy. The building itself is about 100 years old, and has one of the first liquor licenses handed out after prohibition in Massachusetts.

Clyde's Roadhouse Bar & Grill Serving the 2-Pound Burger in Walpole for 18 Years

Clyde's Road House Bar & Grill in Walpole is a kid and friendly family restaurant where customers can get great food and have great time eating it. Clyde's features a "Wall of Shame," which is for the customers who order the 2-pound burger but can't finish the whole thing. Then there's the "Wall of Fame" for those who are able to finish their burgers.

The Bristish Beer Company Makes for a Fantastic Night Life in Walpole

The British Beer Company, one of 13 BBCs in Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New Hampshire, provides an exciting night life off Route 1 in Walpole. Recently, the British Beer Company celebrated its 15th Anniversary as the company continues to grow. Locations to date include Falmouth, Sandwich, Hyannis, Cedarville, Walpole, Framingham; Bristol, R.I. and Manchester, N.H. A new location will soon be opening in Portsmouth, N.H.

Sharon

Sharon Business Spotlight: French Memories Bakery

Sharon bakery French Memories is located right in Sharon Center, and features a generous selection of bakery items such as french pastries, breads and has a lunch menu that features specialty soups and sandwiches. Sharon Patch spoke with Tess Odier, the daughter of Philippe and Debra, and asked about life growing up in a bakery.

Canton

Dunkin' Donuts Strengthens Local Bonds in Wake of Marathon Blasts

While there are coffee drinkers of various types across New England, it's no secret that a vast majority of Massachusetts residents are fans of Dunkin' Donuts. And the feeling is mutual for the Canton-based coffee chain and during a tumultuous week in the aftermath of the Boston Marathon bombings, the company was able to strengthen its bond with customers, residents and first-responders alike. 

Not only did Watertown's Dunkin' Donuts restaurant remain open during last month's lockdown and manhunt of Suspect #2, the local shop offered to serve first-responders and law enforcement with free coffee and food. Moreover, , with 2,000 restaurants in New England working to collect donations to support those affected by the Boston Marathon Bombings. 

An Inside View of The Turnpike Cafe

Get an inside look at the Turnpike Cafe, located at 958 Turnpike St. in Canton, which has been a staple in town for more than 50 years. New owners Patrick and Caroline Brodigan purchased the cafe one year ago and plan to continue its tradition of keeping it in the family.

Canton Business Spotlight: Giovanni's Ice Cream

The walls of Giovanni's Ice Cream are lined with candid photos of all of the shop's customers. Owner Joey Federico said his mother and co-owner Anna is a photo person and likes to take pictures of everyone that comes in, creating what has been dubbed the "Wall of Giovanni's Fame". Canton Patch sat down with Joey Federico and asked him where the name came from and how the ice cream business is throughout the year.

Stoughton

Chateau Fundraiser to Support Boston Marathon Victims

The Chateau restaurants, one of which is located in Stoughton, held a fundraiser Tuesday, April 30 for the victims of the Boston Marathon bombings. The restaurant plans to donate 20 percent (less tax) from its lunch, dinner and take-out sales to the One Fund Boston.

Stoughton Business Spotlight: CakeBombs

Linda Gay, owner of CakeBombs in Stoughton, perfected this ultimate sweet treat after years of experimentation. Stoughton Patch spoke with Gay to find out about her business and the renowned "cakebombs", which are smaller than cupcakes, but larger than candy truffles.

Maxie's Looking to Help Burn Victims with "Pickle Pandemonium" Eating Contest

After two years of holding a successful "Matzo Ball Mania," Maxie’s Delicatessen in Stoughton will instead have a pickle eating contest. The pickle eating contest took place Sunday, April 28. All proceeds are donated to the Sumner Redstone Burn Center at Massachusetts General Hospital.

M & G's Pizza has real Italian style pizza, burgers, sandwiches and deli. The local eatery opened March 29 at the former Main Street Pizza location. While owner Eric Plamer has been in the restaurant business for many years, this is his first privately owned restaurant. 

Sharon resident Neil Morris opened his catering business NRM Catering/A Perfect Taste in 2001 in Newton and then relocated to Stoughton in 2007 when he needed a larger space. The business expanded again a few weeks ago with a retail store in Stoughton that features cupcakes, gourmet popcorn, bark, pastries, specialty cakes, celebration cakes and sculpted cakes. The business also features a selection of homemade soups.

Norwood

Business Spotlight: Cafe Paprika Restaurant

Cafe Paprika Restaurant lies in the heart of Norwood, offering a unique Mediterranean Taste Kitchen with an eat-in and take-out menu, as well as a catering menu that can be customized. Norwood Patch sat down with Lahcen Abaichi in April to find out about the special menu.

Business Q&A With Jake n Joe's Sports Grille

Jake n Joe's Sports Grille opened its doors in 2010, and has established itself as the place to go to watch your favorite sports teams on television. The menu features American burgers, pizza and sandwiches along with daily specials. Televisions line the bar and your favorite sports photographs and memorabilia line the walls.

The Olde Colonial Restaurant

The Olde Colonial Restaurant is a landmark in downtown Norwood. The beautiful structure of the building was once home to the Norwood Fire Department. Owners Paul and Martha Angelo have owned and operated the restaurant for more than 40 years.

Mug 'N Muffin Restaurant

The Mug 'N Muffin Restaurant in Norwood offers more than just muffins. Owner David Monahan arrives at 6 a.m. to go over the days selections with his cooks. Norwood Patch sat down with Stephen Paste, a Norwood resident who has been cooking for the Mug 'N Muffin for seven years.

Dedham

The Paradise Cafe in Dedham Square is the perfect destination for live music, good food and spirits. Every Friday and Saturday night, the local eatery features a different band performing a wide range of music, from blues to soul, as well as jazz and rock. Patrons can sit back and lounge on the comfortable couches in front of a gas fireplace while enjoying your glass of wine or featured brews.

Business Spotlight: Bamboo Restaurant

The Bamboo Restaurant is known for fine Asian cuisine and a large sushi bar. Dedham Patch sat down with manager George Leung to find out what makes this restaurant different.

Through the Doors of Dedham's Summer Shack Restaurant

The Summer Shack is located at the entrance of Legacy Place in Dedham, and is the third location for Chef Jasper White, a world renowned Chef who has been featured on television cooking shows and is an author of four cookbooks, many of which have won awards. Dedham Patch sat down with White to discuss his restaurants, books and awards for his New England style seafood.

Ron's Gourmet Ice Cream

Ron's Gourmet Ice Cream in Dedham Square was voted the third best tasting ice cream in the world in a "The 10 Best of Everything." Patch sat down with Jay Covitz to find out what they have to offer in their two locations. The Dedham spot has a real ice cream parlor atmosphere and the larger business in Hyde Park includes a bowling alley, perfect for birthday parties.

Wrentham

Wrentham's Commonwealth BBQ Owner Likes Working for Himself

Chris Vireira said he’s worked in the restaurant industry for 18 years, but always for someone else. He said now that he’s opened Commonwealth BBQ in Wrentham, that’s all changed.

“It’s working for somebody else ultimately and at the end, you have very little to show for it,” he told Wrentham Patch in April. “In corporate, they’re not in the business of employees retiring, especially in the restaurant business. I decided to invest in myself and my family instead of working for another chain.”

James Breakfast A Famous Spot in Wrentham

James and Coryn Arsenault originally opened their first restaurant in Wrentham in 1999, and after a brief hiatus they returned to what they love. Coryn said she and her husband wanted to have jobs that allowed them to start and raise their growing family at the time of the original closing. She said the hours were too long, 16-18 hours a day, and they wanted to make sure they had time for their children.

Mansfield

Asia Grill and Sushi Entering Third Year

Bobby Lau first started in the restaurant industry in Rhode Island more than 20 years ago, and now he’s still wearing multiple hats at the Asia Grill and Suishi in Mansfield. Lau said he first started working at the Bejing Garden, and started his own business in Mansfield about three years ago. Learn more about the local eatery on Mansfield Patch. 

Cousin's Pizza in Mansfield a Family Affair

Frank Mylonas started working at Cousin’s Pizza in 1981, and has been working there ever since. Mylonas said he first started making pizza when he was 16 working as a pizza marker for a moving carnival. 

What's New This Spring at Fresh Catch in Mansfield?

As the weather gets warmer, undoubtedly Mansfield residents will be interested in sitting down for some solid seafood. Luckily, one of Mansfield's most popular restaurants specializes in seafood.

So, what's new this spring at Fresh Catch? Owner Bill Sarro highlighted a new spring menu. After a long winter, he made the switch to new spring items in the middle of March. The menu is highlighted by stuffed cohogs, nachos with shrimp and lobster, Alaskan seafood chowder and lobster Cobb salad.

Norton

Norton House of Pizza Handing Down the Generations

Nick Anifantis’ father and uncle started the Norton House of Pizza more than 40 years ago, and now he’s getting ready to continue the tradition. Anifantis first started at the shop when he was 12, sweeping the floor and putting pizza boxes together. He first started cooking when he was 14.

Fiesta Restaurant Brings Mexico to Norton

The Ramirez family just opened their newest Fiesta location in Norton, and Zoel Ramirez says it’s a treat to share Mexican cuisine with the community for the first time. Fiesta now has three locations, including Somerset and East Bridgewater. 

Easton

Sophie's Pizza Place in Easton a True Family Business

Sophie Devaney said she and her family have been working on pizza since she was 13, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. Devaney said she just wanted something with a quicker pace, and found it again at Sophie’s Pizza.

Attleboro

David Bliss comes from a long line of history in Attleboro. He said he can trace his family back to English immigrants in 1636. Bliss owns and operates Bliss Bros. Dairy on Park Street in Attleboro, which has had a few changes over the years. The business began years ago as a dairy farm in Rehoboth, with milk deliveries taking place all around the region. Bliss said the family moved to Park Street in the 1920s and started a milk plant to expand the operation.

Cassey Lamothe opened the sports bar and performance venue Cassey's Place in Attleboro about seven months ago, and her general manager and father-in-law say it has been quite a ride. Monty said both Cassey and general manager Lindsay O'Hara changed the location a great deal since it was known as the Moose Cabin. The previous venue was a family restaurant with many tables and sectioned-off spaces for tables and booths. Monty said they've opened up the space to make another horse shoe-shaped bar and a space for DJs and live music.

Tex Barry's a Family and Attleboro Tradition

Arthur Bombardier began working at Tex Barry's Coney Island Diner in Attleboro more than 30 years ago, and he said he's happy to be at the place where he had his first job. Bombardier said he wasn't always sure he was going to make and sell hot dogs for a living, but it did grow on him. His mother bought the restaurant in 1985 when the original chain that opened in 1929 went out of business.

Seekonk

Micheletti's in Seekonk a Family Tradition

Micheletti’s in Seekonk was started in 1976, and current owner John Whitelaw said he’s felt blessed to be a part of it. Whitelaw, who took over in 1996 after his father-in-law passed away, said he had worked 10 years in the food service department at the Providence Civic Center, but it was nothing like Micheletti’s.

Tito's Mexican Cantina a Product of Food Diversity and Expansion

Richard Reavis started Tito’s Cantina with the idea no one in New England in the late 1980s to bring Mexican food to the area. Reavis said diversity helped him to expand. He said he knew a regular taco restaurant wouldn’t last, so he went into different avenues.

Best Pizza of Seekonk Brings 30-Plus Years of Experience

Dennis Hashway, owner of Best Pizza of Seekonk for more than 20 years, started in the pizza business when he was just 16 in Cumberland, R.I. Hashway said he first started while working for the Cumberland House of Pizza in 1976 and various other pizza places in Smithfield and Gloucester, but always wanted to do something more.

Swansea

Bloomin' Barn in Swansea Getting in the Dirt for over 25 Years

George Parent and his wife have been running the Bloomin’ Barn in Swansea for more than 25 years, but he says it hasn’t felt that long. Parent said he originally opened the barn 25 years ago, but said he has been in the growing business since he was a kid as a farmer. Parent said he went to Bristol Agricultural College and worked on the Chase Farm in Swansea, but he ended up going into the construction, tool making and carpentry business.


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