‘A Cedar City favorite, reimagined’: The Pub’s new owners officially cut ribbon on ‘exciting’ venture

CEDAR CITY — The Pub, a popular eatery on Cedar City’s Center Street since 1999, has recently been rebranded under new ownership.

The Pub Spirits + Craft Kitchen co-owner Barry Orton welcomes attendees to the newly reimagined restaurant’s grand-opening dinner, Cedar City, Utah, June 15, 2024 | Photo by Jeff Richards, St. George News / Cedar City News

When co-owners Jaden Reardon and Barry Orton officially cut the ceremonial ribbon last Saturday, it marked the restaurant’s transition into a new era.

“The Pastry Pub had a huge spot in our hearts,” Reardon said of its previous iteration, adding that they have chosen to call newly minted “The Pub Spirits + Craft Kitchen” is being termed “a Cedar City favorite, reimagined. We can’t wait to share with you what we have.”

Following the ribbon-cutting, attendees went inside to sample sandwiches and cookies while appreciating the new decor, which includes a variety of whimsical animal-themed artwork.

The establishment’s grand opening festivities continued later that evening with a special inaugural dinner attended by several dozen of their closest friends, supporters and patrons.

This panna cotta dessert with strawberry compote topped with a balsamic reduction capped off the grand-opening dinner of The Pub Spirits + Craft Kitchen, Cedar City, Utah, June 15, 2024 | Photo by Jeff Richards, St. George News / Cedar City News

According to The Pub’s website, the establishment features “a delightful array of dishes, from hearty burgers and inventive salads, to gourmet small plates and decadent desserts.” To see the restaurant’s full menu, click here.

“We pride ourselves on using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to create flavors that are both comforting and exciting,” the website adds.

Ever since Reardon and Orton officially took ownership of The Pub on May 1, they have been remodeling and revitalizing the space, adding their unique, eclectic touch.

The partners bring a deep local connection to their new endeavor, with Reardon being a native of Cedar City and Orton originally hailing from Parowan but who has lived in Cedar City since 1999, the same year The Pub first opened its doors at 86 W. Center Street.

“This serendipitous link to the past makes their ownership even more special,” notes a written announcement about the duo and their new venture.

The Pub Spirits + Craft Kitchen co-owners Barry Orton and Jaden Reardon are interviewed for a social media video post prior to the newly reimagined restaurant’s grand-opening dinner, Cedar City, Utah, June 15, 2024 | Photo by Jeff Richards, St. George News / Cedar City News

“The couple, along with their daughter and son-in-law, Makenzie and Bladen Forsyth, and their son, Dylan Orton, are eagerly embracing the future of The Pub Spirits + Craft Kitchen,” the statement adds. “When approached about purchasing the business, Jaden and Barry, already fans of the food, saw an opportunity to transform it into a destination known for its delicious cuisine and inviting atmosphere.”

Reardon said that as he and Orton worked to reimagine the restaurant’s aesthetic, they aimed for what they called “a modern take on a flamboyant English pub.” 

“The result is a fun, moody, and comfortable setting where customers quickly become part of an extended family,” Reardon said.

Reardon and Orton said they are proud of their dedicated team of employees and described their staff as being “friendly, passionate, and exceptional at what they do, ensuring a top-notch experience for all who visit.”

The Pub Spirits + Craft Kitchen owners and employees let out a cheer before the ribbon cutting, Cedar City, Utah, June 15, 2024 | Photo by Jeff Richards, St. George News / Cedar City News

“As Cedar City locals, Jaden and Barry’s commitment to their community shines through in their enthusiasm for The Pub Spirits + Craft Kitchen,” the announcement concludes. “They invite everyone to come and experience the revamped eatery, promising a delightful blend of tradition and innovation. Be sure to stop by and check out a Cedar City favorite, reimagined, where great food and a welcoming atmosphere await.”

The Pub’s current hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Mondays, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays and 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Sundays. For more information, call 435-867-1400 or send an email to [email protected].

Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2024, all rights reserved.

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