North Bend Grille’s Grand Opening: Set for March 7 Under the new ownership of Lee and Tammy Thompson
By Autumn Gavlock
NORTH BEND- Exciting news has been spreading through the North Bend area with word of local business owners Lee and Tammy Thompson announcing the much-awaited grand opening of their new business, the North Bend Grille. Formerly known as Tripp’s Grill, the establishment, located at 11903 Renovo Road North Bend, is set to become a grub hub for locals and visitors alike.
Mark your calendars for Thursday, March 7, as the grand opening festivities kick off at 6:00 a.m. Business hours are expected to be set at Monday-Sunday 6:00 a.m.- 9:00 p.m. Featuring weekly breakfast, lunch, and dinner specials. The Restaurant will offer a traditional American style cuisine featuring favorites such as burgers, pizzas, wings, sandwiches, nachos and more. Notably, some menu items will pay homage to local landmarks and businesses connecting the community through shared stories and flavors.
Lee and Tammy Thompson, the proud owners of North Bend Grille, focus is to provide people with good home quality food for a good price. The restaurant will also be offering an assortment of baked goods, made both in-house and sourced locally. Collaborating with fellow small businesses owners like Nan’s Donuts and Mr. Sticky, the North Bend Grille is not only aiming for convenience but also demonstrating a commitment to supporting the local economy. Also available will be six-pack beer options for take out along with singles for dine-in patrons as well.
Lee and Tammy Thompson, Owners along with Brittney Poleto, Manager and Brian Tripp, CTO have been hard at work for the last several months preparing for the big unveiling. In preparation for the grand opening, the building has received a complete interior remodel and is expected to receive an exterior remodel early to mid spring. The interior focus was set to be an inviting, clean environment where people choose to come sit down and enjoy a delicious meal with friends and family, time and time again. Reservations will be accepted and are encouraged for larger groups. To make a reservation call 570-923-2291.
The North Bend Grille has deep roots in the community, once known as Tripp’s Gas and Grill, established in 1985 by Albert and Shirley Tripp. The torch was later passed to Mike and Susan Tripp in 2002. The Tripp family also purchased the historical motel next door naming it the Tripp’s Four Season Motel in 2006. The Tripp family owned and operated these two successful businesses for over two decades.
Interestingly, the North Bend Grille finds itself positioned directly adjacent to the former Tripp’s Four Season Motel, historically known as the Thompson House Motel which is also now owned and operated by Lee and Tammy Thompson, adding yet just another facet to their new business endeavor. It was in fact the historical namesake of the Thompson House Motel that played a pivotal role in the couple’s decision to purchase. Tammy shared, “Lee came to me with the idea in late December, with the look of a kid in a candy store, He had just learned that in the 1900’s the property was named the Thompson House Motel and he could not contain his excitement.”
“I took one look at that excitement in his eyes and without hesitation said yes, let’s do it”, said Tammy.
Lee and Tammy Thompson, although new to the restaurant/motel business, are no newcomers to the entrepreneur scene. The couple have over 30 years of experience owning and operating three other successful businesses in the North Bend area including; Thompson Logging & Trucking Inc., Farwell Sanitation Disposal LLC, and LTT Trucking Highway Bridge Construction. The pair expressed that they are enthusiastic about starting this new business and look forward to serving their community with their continued efforts to provide employment and prosperity to the Renovo area and beyond. It was noted by Tammy during our interview that the North Bend Grille was given its name as tribute to the North Bend area, which her and husband Lee Thompson have cherished and called home for over the last 30 years. Tammy noted, “It just felt right, all of our business and our home are right here in North Bend, so why not”
The North Bend Grille is anticipated to be a prime location for locals and visitors afar to gather for good food in a great environment. With plans to cater to outdoor enthusiasts exploring the region for activities like hunting, fishing, ATV trails, hiking, and kayaking. The North Bend Grille welcomes all sportsmen and encourages them to stop by. As part of their commitment to the community, Lee mentioned “We have reached out to DCNR and are working closely with them to build out this ATV thing, to make this a tourist destination by creating ATV parking, pavilions, more rooms etc. we have some big plans.” More details on ATV accommodations and developments are expected to follow.
With a fresh new name, an updated aesthetic, a revamped menu and passionate new ownership and staff, the North Bend Grille eagerly anticipates serving their local community and all of Clinton County right in the heart of the Pennsylvania Wilds. Join in the celebration on Friday, March 7, 2024 by grabbing a bite to eat or follow them on Facebook to stay updated on their exciting new menu, specials and more.
Come be a part of the beginning of something great at the North Bend Grille!
