City officials and friends recognized the owners of the East End Table and Tap with a ribbon-cutting on Friday, Sept. 19. Mark and Heidi Guiterrez, who purchased the bar and restaurant from Mary Hepner in July, have already begun renovating the building.

“We are focusing on making changes to the kitchen right now,” said co-owner Mark. “New refrigerators, a prep table, a flat top griddle and a larger hood have been installed.” He went on to say that tables have been added in the bar area for dining, with plans to create a separate lounge area within the main dining room. “This all has to be done in phases, with the kitchen at the top of the list.”

The couple has received assistance from Allenia Space’s owner, Astrid Haryati, in designing the lounge and dining area. She has worked with them to create their vision of a friendly, comfortable restaurant that will be a destination place for those wanting good food and good service.

Co-owner Heidi, a Galva native, is a registered nurse who left the corporate world to pursue a dream she has had for a long time.

“I had some experience with a food truck when I was younger, and I really enjoyed it,” she said. “I think wanting to have my own restaurant started then.” She admits that both she and husband Mark are avowed “foodies,” and enjoy creating new menu items.

They currently offer a rotating menu with daily features.

“We plan to expand it as the kitchen enlarges,” said Heidi. “Our cheese curds from Wisconsin have been a popular choice.” She added that flatbreads, salads and special burgers are just a few of the items that get high marks from diners.

Both promised that Wednesday night will remain “Taco Night”, a long-standing tradition that the former owner began many years ago. For quite some time, the Galva High School football players have enjoyed a Thursday night buffet. As many as thirty students and parents take part, with each week offering something new, such as a taco or baked potato bar.

The establishment serves food Monday–Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., and from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The bar opens at 11 a.m. and remains open until closing on Sunday.

Heidi spends the biggest share of her time in the kitchen, admitting that she was surprised at how much she enjoys working with the kitchen crew.

“We have streamlined the process and have a lot of fun working together.” She went on to say that she is the one accountable for any dish that leaves the kitchen. “I want it to be right as our customers deserve that.”

Heidi’s son Reece Hoxworth is part of the operation, acting as bar manager.

“It’s great having him on board, as he has plenty of good ideas and knows many of the patrons,” she said.

The couple is looking forward to a special night where they will serve menu items that were popular years ago at the “West End,” also called “Bud’s Tap,” which was run by Stan and Jackie Hall. Jackie’s daughter Peggy is going to spend time with Heidi, teaching her how the chicken, catfish, steaks and potatoes were made. They hope to have an “East End/West End” night before the end of the year.

Employee Crane Johnson and Jeff Todd are planning a Cajun cook-off in October. More events are in the planning, but currently, the new owners are working hard to keep all the moving parts going in the right direction.

“It’s a combination of a dream come true and a leap of faith,” said Heidi. “And Mark is the best partner of all.”

***This copy has been edited to reflect the correct last name of Mary Hepner. It was originally reported as Mary Johnson.