|
About Us -
Serving time at The Pen
Unusual Business Location
The gatehouse must be one of the most unusual business
locations in New Westminster. It was one of a few heritage
buildings on the B.C. Pen site that was saved after the property
was sold for development in the 1980's.
Love at first sight
I was attracted to the building by its fascinating history,
central location and unbeatable atmosphere. Taking
over the existing coffee shop at the gatehouse was a 10-year dream
come true. I have always wanted to own my own restaurant. After
looking over 75 restaurants that were for sale, when I came to
the gatehouse, it all clicked into place!
Of course, I knew the building. As a Boy Scout
in the 1970's, I came to tour a portion of the Penitentiary site,
climbing up the stairs that lead to the gatehouse from Columbia
and talking to prison guards.
When I visited the coffee shop, I immediately envisioned its
potential as both a coffee and lunch meeting place, and an
intimate restaurant for evening dining.
 The
Start
My wife Kerry and I took over February 1, 1998. We renamed the
restaurant The Pen Cafe and Bistro from the former The Pen
Coffee House
On Valentine's Day weekend we opened for the evening trade.
Response was immediate. All but one table were filled!
My Background
I started my restaurant career at MacDonald's and worked for
numerous restaurants, including a stint as executive sous-chef at
The Boathouse at Westminster Quay. Most recently, I worked for
Shady Island in Steveston as executive chef and as general
manager. I also spent a two-year stint as a food and beverage
controller at a resort hotel in Africa.
The Future
Actually the future is here now. My dream was to grow the Pen to a
full restaurant. We are in the process of expanding the restaurant
to more than twice its current size and will be offering a
wonderful evening menu!
 It has been hard, but rewarding. A big thank you to all our
loyal clientele who have helped to make it possible.
John Klockow and Family
|
