A first in 74 years: A new family will own the Hubbell House
A prominent Rochester restaurant group has agreed to purchase one of the region’s most iconic eateries.
On Thursday, it was announced that Powers Ventures will take over ownership of the Hubbell House in Mantorville.
The restaurant, one of the oldest in the state, has been run by the Pappas family since its opening in 1946. In a statement, second-generation owner Don Pappas called the sale “bittersweet but exciting at the same time.” Don took over the restaurant after the death of his father, Paul, in 1996.
“We couldn’t have asked for a better family to pass on the legacy of the Hubbell House,” Pappas said in the announcement. “The Powers family will preserve the heritage and at the same time usher in a bright future.”
Powers Ventures will take ownership of the Hubbell House on April 20. The company’s existing portfolio includes the Canadian Honker restaurant, Mayowood Stone Barn, and several catering businesses.
“We are extremely honored to carry on the legacy of the Hubbell House,” said Joe Powers, President of Powers Ventures. “We’ve always admired the Pappas family and the foundation they have built. Our families share the same values and commitment to employees, customers and the community. This is an exciting day for everyone.”
Even with the sale, at least two members of the Pappas family — including Don’s daughter Alaina Pappas Mitchell — will remain active in the management of the restaurant. The restaurant currently employs a total of 95 full- and part- time workers.
A community-wide event will be held in March to “celebrate the legacy of the Hubbell House and the heritage of the Pappas family.”
Two Grand openings
Two local businesses we have previously reported on are scheduled to open second locations in the coming days.
Fiddlehead Coffee Co. will begin “soft open” hours beginning this Saturday at its new location in the Miracle Mile Shopping Center.
Writing on Facebook, the business said it still waiting on kitchen equipment, so the menu will initially be limited to coffee and pastries. Hours will also be limited, with the shop closing up at 2 p.m.
Extended hours and a full menu will begin on March 21.
Meantime, across town, the Tap House West End will open its doors on March 3. Like the downtown spot, the new pub — located along Commerce Drive — will serve up food and drinks, including over 100 tap beers.
Sean Baker is a Rochester journalist and the founder of Med City Beat.
