Experience The Upper Pub and Eatery: A New Gem in Grand Valley
The Upper Pub and Eatery is the latest hotspot for delicious food and drinks in Dufferin County. Located at the site of the former Wrinkly Bear Brewing Company in Grand Valley, this new establishment offers a unique and inviting dining experience. Here’s everything you need to know about The Upper Pub and Eatery and why it’s quickly becoming a favorite among locals.
The Journey of the Mahon Sisters
Crystal and Connie Mahon were operating a family-run painting business in Brampton when they decided it was time for a change. They traded in their paintbrushes for pint glasses and headed north to Grand Valley, where they worked at the Wrinkly Bear Brewing Company for about a year. When the brewpub owners decided to relocate to Guelph, the Mahon sisters saw an opportunity.
After the brewpub closed in May, Crystal and Connie made a swift decision to lease the vintage building at 27 Main St. North. Two weeks later, they opened The Upper Pub and Eatery at the beginning of June.
“With the building set to be vacant – and having met so many great people in the community while working at the brewpub – we made the spontaneous decision to start our own pub,” said Connie Mahon. “Two weeks later — we opened for business.”
A Historic Schoolhouse with a New Purpose
The Upper Pub and Eatery is housed in a historic 1892 two-story brick schoolhouse. The building originally accommodated two elementary classrooms on the ground floor and two secondary school classes upstairs. In 1912, two more rooms were added at the back of the building. Today, the Mahon family rents these rooms out as community spaces for events such as baby and wedding showers or private parties.
“The building was used as a school until 1959, but then sat vacant for many years,” noted Mahon. “We have a lot of space to work with here. With three rooms on the main level, we can accommodate about 45 guests in each room.”
A Taste of the East Coast
Around the bar area, the Mahon sisters have infused a subtle East Coast vibe, paying homage to their Newfoundland roots with artifacts and decorative pieces throughout the main dining area. This connection to their heritage is also reflected in their menu, offering patrons a wide variety of traditional Canadian pub fare with an East Coast twist.
A Diverse and Delicious Menu
The Upper Pub and Eatery’s menu offers a wide variety of dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. From fish and chips to jumbo wing dinners, pastas, pizzas, and a classic grilled chicken on a bun, there’s something for everyone. The menu is also a reflection of the Mahon sisters’ Atlantic Canada relations.
“One week this summer, we offered customers a ‘Billion Dollar Betty Burger’ as a menu item when our Uncle Bill and Aunt Betty came to visit us from Newfoundland,” laughed Mahon. “We like to have fun with our menu and our guests, plus we wanted to make our Aunt Betty feel special.”
“We want our customers to know we are all about providing consistency and quality with our food. All our recipes are exclusive to our family and The Upper Pub and Eatery,” said business partner and sibling Crystal Mahon.
Building Community and Connection
The Mahon sisters have a vision for The Upper Pub and Eatery that goes beyond just serving food and drinks. They want the pub to be a vibrant gathering place where the community can come together. Whether it’s for a meal, a drink, or an event, The Upper Pub and Eatery is designed to be a welcoming hub for the people of Dufferin County.
For more info on hours of operation plus the lineup for live music on Fridays, check out the pub’s social media online:
- Instagram: The Upper Pub and Eatery
- Facebook: The Upper Pub and Eatery
A Top Choice in Grand Valley
For those exploring dining options in Grand Valley, The Upper Pub and Eatery is a must-visit. Its unique blend of historic charm, delicious food, and welcoming atmosphere makes it a standout destination. Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy a meal with family and friends or a venue to host your next event, The Upper Pub and Eatery has something to offer.
Visit The Upper Pub and Eatery Today
If you’re in Dufferin County or planning a visit to Grand Valley, make sure to stop by The Upper Pub and Eatery. Experience the warmth, hospitality, and delicious food that the Mahon sisters have brought to this historic schoolhouse. With their dedication to quality and community, The Upper Pub and Eatery is set to become a beloved local spot for years to come.
Check out their Shop Local GTA Listing for event updates: The Upper Pub and Eatery.
In conclusion, The Upper Pub and Eatery is not just a place to dine; it’s a place to connect with the community, enjoy a meal with friends and family, and celebrate the rich history of Grand Valley. Crystal and Connie Mahon have created a unique dining experience that blends traditional Canadian pub fare with a touch of East Coast charm, all within the walls of a historic schoolhouse. So, if you’re searching for a top dining spot in Grand Valley, look no further than The Upper Pub and Eatery.