New owners blend traditions, fresh ideas for Winamac eateries

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Published: Friday, 01 August 2014 20:16

WINAMAC - Winamac natives Mike and Jenny Kasten have announced they have assumed ownership of Vicky’s Restaurant and The Fox’s Den restaurants in downtown Winamac.

Co-owner Jenny Kasten said, “We are thrilled to have this opportunity and are looking forward to serving our friends, neighbors and visitors to the area.” The spatula was passed to the Kastens from Jason and Monica Potthoff, and Rob and Shamay Ruff, who co-owned and operated the twin eateries following longtime owners Vicki and Dave Pingel.

The Kastens plan to maintain the traditions locals have come to expect, including popular breakfast and lunch specials featuring sandwiches, soups, salads, and a variety of homemade pies. The Den’s more casual atmosphere includes steaks, seafood, pasta and more.

Some exciting new facility improvements are also in the works, including an exterior awning, and addition of access between both establishments for large groups, parties and reunions. “Adding a doorway will allow our guests easy entry/passage between both restaurants without having to go outside. Customer seating space and atmosphere won’t be compromised," the new owners said.

A new name, “One-Eyed Jack’s,” will be adopted as of Sept. 1 to associate the restaurants under one moniker, while maintaining the atmosphere, specialties and specific customer focus of the individual establishments. Mike Kasten explained, “The one-eyed jack has fun, multiple meanings-from the playing card to the breakfast sandwich, and it’s a sly reference to my Grandpa Jack Kasten, a well-known, longtime resident who was quite a character.” 

Jenny added, “We’re planning to expand our hours of operation in early September. There are some fun events in the works with opportunities for folks of all ages to relax and enjoy everything we have to offer.”

Starting Sept. 1, hours for Jack’s Cafe (Vicky’s) and Jack’s Den (Fox’s Den) will be 5 a.m. to 2 p.m., Mondays; Closed Tuesdays; 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., Wednesdays through Saturdays; and 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sundays. Reservations, walk-ins and large groups are welcome. Take out, catering and special order desserts are available.

The restaurants are located in downtown Winamac at 124 and 124.5 N. Market St. The phone number is (574) 946-4343.

The Fox’s Den will host a beer and wine garden, along with food specials during the upcoming GermanFest in downtown Winamac Saturday, Aug. 9.