Posted: 10/23/07
Sonny and Bevís changes hands, becomes Elsieís Bar and Grill
By Tom Hammell
Special to the Caledonia Argus
The sign on the front of the building on Main Street in Caledonia still says "Sonny and Bevís" but employees answer the phone, "Elsieís Bar and Grill."
Elsie Vesterse took over the restaurant on Sept. 1 and has already painted the building and changed some of the menu offerings. Vesterse, a relative of the former owners, said she bartended off and on since they owned the restaurant.
The restaurant has some new specials. Monday night the restaurant serves steaks, Wednesday night its battered chicken, Friday, the special is fish and Saturday the restaurant serves ribs.
"When I first took over it seemed like the bar carried the restaurant," she said. "Now it seems like the restaurant is holding its own."
Bev Rud still works there 25 hours a week and Sonny Rud comes in every day.
"Theyíve been real good to help me," Vesterse said.
The bar is a family affair in other ways too.
Friday, Sydnee, 10, was hanging around the restaurant, helping her mother.
Elsie has other children who help, Haley, 11, Chase, 19, and Sammy, 22.
The establishment is open from 5:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. seven days a week.
The regulars have been positive, even bringing up suggestions for the restaurant.
"Iíve got a good rapport with people here," she said.
Bev Rud has had offers to take over the restaurant before, but she knew that Vesterse was the right person to take over.
"It was the right time for both of us," she said.
Now, though she is still helping at the restaurant, she knows she can take it easy. One thing she will miss, though, is the people. She knows the customers will be in good hands.
"Sheís got the personality and sheíll make it," Rud said.
Caledonia Argus
314 West Lincoln St.
P.O. Box 227
Caledonia, MN 55921-0227
507/724-3475
E-Mail: editor.argus@ecm-inc.com