Business Spotlight: The Turnpike Cafe

The Turnpike Cafe, located at 958 Turnpike St. has been a staple in Canton for more than 50 years. New owners Patrick and Caroline Brodigan purchased the cafe one year ago and plan to continue its tradition of keeping it in the family.

Canton Patch sat down with Brodigan to talk about his first year and if he's made any changes to this well known restaurant.

Canton Patch: What is the history of Turnpike Café?

Patrick Brodigan: The Geftea family had owned the Turnpike Cafe for 58 years. My wife Caroline and I purchased the restaurant from the Gefteas last April. We are thrilled to be back in Canton where we both grew up. It’s a great town and we have really enjoyed being part of the community and reconnecting with old friends, teachers, classmates and coaches. We are proud to keep the tradition of the family run establishment alive.

Patrick Brodigan: Have you made any changes to the business?

Brodigan: Yes, we added a pizza oven and it’s been a great success. On Mondays, we are offering a free large cheese pizza with the purchase of a bucket of beers or a pitcher of beer. Now we are open seven days a week and people have really enjoyed the expanded hours.

Canton Patch: What are your best menu items?

Patrick Brodigan: We recently launched a new menu featuring many of the homemade favorites like burgers and the Greek wrap that people love. We've added some great new items such as nachos, pizza, spinach salad and a hummus plate.

Canton Patch: What’s a good time to come to Turnpike Cafe?

Patrick Brodigan: Lunch is very popular with local businesses and it’s a great after work spot for some appetizers and drinks. We have trivia every Wednesday night at 6:30 p.m. and we always have the Boston sports teams on our TVs. We get a great social crowd on Saturday and Sunday night's that spill over into the night. There’s a great neighborhood atmosphere and there's something for everyone!

Canton Patch: How long have you been in this business?

Patrick Brodigan: My family had owned Crossroads Irish Pub in Boston, which they bought a week before I was born. I grew up in this business and have been working in the restaurant industry ever since. It’s a great business and I love connecting with people.

For more information, call 781-828-8231