Posted: 3/8/05
Farmhouse Eatery now open for dining
The Farmhouse Eatery opened March 1, and owners Mary Hauser and her daughter, Sarah Cordes, say that the first week, while hectic, was rewarding after the five months of preparation that went into getting the restaurant ready.
But they are quick to point out that their husbands were as involved as they were.
Buck Cordes, Saraís husband, built all the tables himself out of pine barn boards. He and Maryís husband, Jake, spent many hours transforming the home at 219 North Kingston into a restaurant and gift shop. Except for the electrical work and plumbing and heating, all the work done on the house was done by the Hauser and Cordes families.
And on opening day, both were called into service to bus tables and wash dishes while guests enjoyed the comfortable atmosphere and homemade food.
ìWe learned a lot,î commented Mary on Friday. ìWe didnít know what it would be like.î
Mary and Jakeís son Zach and his wife, Andrea, will be helping out when they can.
Mary and Sara were both day care providers before their foray into restaurant/gift shop business. Mary said she learned to cook from her late mother, Esther, at a young age, and taught Sara to cook when she was young. Some of the specials and desserts are family favorites, others are new.
Daily specials at the Farmhouse are written on the blackboard, along with the desserts, muffins and featured coffees of the day. There is always homemade soup and chili, too. Saturdayís offering include egg bake for breakfast.
Carry-outs are available, and reservations are appreciated for large groups.
Private dinners for groups of 15 or more can be arranged.
The first week was rewarding and Mary and Sarah both heard lots of good comments.
ìItís a fun thing for a mother and daughter to do together, î said Mary.
The Farmhouse Eatery and Gifts is open from 8-5 Monday through Saturday.
Caledonia Argus
314 West Lincoln St.
P.O. Box 227
Caledonia, MN 55921-0227
507/724-3475
E-Mail: editor.argus@ecm-inc.com