Steve and Mary’s on the Square

One of the co-owners of the restaurant Steve and Mary's on the Square in Goderich says the construction on the Square is just one of many challenges and he wouldn't be there if they didn't love what they do.

 

Steve Bruce says he grew up in Winnipeg but his wife, Mary, is from Varna and they celebrated their sixth anniversary with their restaurant this past week. Steve has been in the restaurant business for about forty years, or most of his life. He admits there is a lot of stress, but he loves that stress and he wouldn't still be in the business if he didn't. He described the adrenaline rush that he feels when people come in the door and admits that rush is part of what keeps him in the business. And like any other business, if you don't really enjoy what you're doing you don't do it for very long.

 

All of the businesses on the square have been impacted by the “big dig” project that is stretching out for nearly three summers (2025 and again in 2026, and some final finishing in the spring of 2027 in time for Goderich’s bicentennial). It will still be some time before everything is back to normal on the Square. Steve has observed that people tend to get into a routine and they can be a little uncomfortable when they're forced out of that routine, but it's important to learn to be a little flexible. He says they've got one more year for the square to be dug up and then the final coat in two years, but if you plan for it and prepare yourself and your team for it, you can get through it. Steve says they've been able to stay open for all but two days and one of the things that really helped them is they do have a rear entrance that they were able to use when necessary and that was very helpful.

 

Steve says they do have some plans for the near future to help people take their minds off the construction. He is tentatively planning a street dance on the Square in mid-December. 

 

“What a thrill it's been to be working in Goderich and in Huron County generally.” Steve noted that everyone is so giving and caring about their neighbours that it's a great community to be part of.

The restaurant itself has the feel of an upscale diner, and is open daily for breakfast and lunch.  It stays open until 7 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, making it a great place to stop in for a bite before a movie or a play. They are committed to locally sourced ingredients wherever possible and have an assortment of freezer meals available. Follow them on Facebook to see what’s on in the kitchen. www.steveandmarysonthesquare.ca 58 Courthouse Square, Goderich