Boondocks restaurant has new owners, a new menu, new kitchen staff and new suppliers.
The colourful eatery at Fisherman's Cove was always a favourite of Cow Bay resident Jamie Rouse.
But after 15 years, he thought it needed some changes.
"My wife Fran and I wanted to be able to eat at a great place nearby, so we offered to buy Boondocks and fix it up. Everything is right about the location. It is a great building. It just needed some TLC and love. So that is what we are doing. And we are now open for business."
The Rouse's are no strangers to the restaurant business.
They own Ma Belle's Cafe on Ochterloney Street.
Peter Boudreau of the beloved and departed "Fish Shop" at Pier 21 fame has been hired to take over the kitchen at Boondocks.
He will be cooking up everything from seafood to burgers with a focus on using local sources wherever possible.
Rouse says it would be cheaper for him to buy supplies elsewhere, but he prefers to support local farmers and outlets.
"The taste is so much better from a local source. Plus you know what has gone into the meat ,or product. It makes a difference."
A bar menu will offer up a whole new list of appetizers to share.
The full menu is still being tweaked but Rouse says he has decided to allow customers to give their input on what they want to eat.
"People can email or call us with suggestions. And if you just want to pop down for a beer, that is great. It doesn't have to be for a full meal."
He is encouraging people to establish a darts league or local musicians to gather at Boondocks for open mike nights.
"We are already licensed as a lounge. We really are all set to go."
Rouse is very proud of the deck,perched out back on the water.
He will be hosting barbeques there in the summer season . The deck seats more than 100 and Rouse says it is the perfect spot for a wedding or special event.
"This deck rivals anything in downtown Halifax.The view is magnificent. Who needs to go to Halifax?"
For more info, email Boondocks at: boondocks@eastlink.ca
Check out our interview with Jamie Rouse:
http://www.halifaxnewsnet.ca/Video/23523/New-owners-at-Boondocks-restaurant
