GALION, Ohio — Galion-Crestline Area Chamber of Commerce members, Mayor Thomas O’Leary and other community members welcomed new ownership to the Whistle Stop Café in Galion. Friday, A ribbon cutting ceremony was held Friday for Charlotte Larson who recently purchased the restaurant from the previous owner.
When Larson was asked to be the new owner of Whistle Stop Café, she said she didn’t hesitate. She bought the restaurant, revamped its look and hired nine new employees.
“It’s always been my dream to own a place like this,” said Larson.
Whistle Stop Café is located on 241 Harding Way East in Galion and was previously owned by Galion Building Inspector Bob Johnston. He reopened the vacant building back in July 2014.
“Before Bob owned it it sat empty for about four or five years,” said President of Galion-Crestline Area Chamber of Commerce Joe Kleinknecht.
Larson said the café menu has changed a little but that the restaurant will keep its homey feel. She said they will run daily breakfast specials for $3.99 and lunch specials for $6.99.
The decor has a new look as well.
“I’m a really big movie buff so we put in all these movie posters,” said Larson. “My favorite one, which hasn’t been put up yet, is one that shows the roadside diner. We’re really going for that feel.”
Larson was a Galion graduate in 1975. She then moved to Las Vegas and has only recently returned to her hometown. Life in Las Vegas gave her nearly 40 years of experience in the restaurant business she said.
Galion Mayor Thomas O’Leary stopped by for the ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday. “This little restaurant has become an anchor of the uptown area. We’re really excited and we welcome you to the area,” said O’leary.
