Mantua – As Mantua locals welcomed the New Year, they happily welcomed the return of an old friend as well when Jake’s Eats, the local comfort food purveyor and hangout, re-opened its doors in mid-January.
When the previous tenant, Millers of Mantua closed their doors, Jodie Fiala and Kim Sumwalt didn’t have much to do to in order to re-open as Jake’s Eats. “We already had a menu, so we didn’t need to reinvent one. It was mostly a matter of coming in to clean and paint,” Jodie explained.
In addition to serving well-loved comfort foods like chicken paprikas, pot roast, and homemade soups, they offer standard diner fare like burgers and fries and chicken fingers. With an extra meeting space for 40 people (dubbed the ‘hole in the wall’), Jakes has already catered meetings for the Downtown Mantua Revitalization Corporation, Crestwood Lions, Mantua-Shalersville Rotary, and other local organizations. “People return for the sense of community more than for what’s on the menu,” Jodie acknowledged. Jake’s can also provide catering for offsite gatherings.
“When we closed our doors in 2014, we lost touch with some friends,” Jodie shared. “It’s nice to see them again. They’ve told us, ‘It’s just like being back home again!” she added.
Jake’s is back, with a friendly smile and a hearty helping of comfort food. The menu and specials are the same as they were, with all-you-can-eat ribs & wings, steak, pasta, and fish offered on various days throughout the week. Or make plans to stop in on Sunday when they serve breakfast all day.
Previously, they had offered live music and open mic nights at the restaurant. Coming this spring, they’ll continue the practice, offering wine and beer tastings and special Saturday date night packages. “People come in for good food and excellent service at a reasonable price,” Jodie added.
Find out today’s special by visiting jakeseats.com or on Facebook at Jake’s Eats.
