Transforming St. Joseph's Culinary Landscape: The House Food and Tap

In the heart of St. Joseph, Minnesota, a new culinary destination is set to redefine the local dining experience. The House Food and Tap, a collaborative venture between the Hern family and a diverse array of food entrepreneurs, is poised to become a hub of gastronomic innovation and community engagement.

Elevating St. Joseph's Culinary Scene, One Bite at a Time

Embracing the Spirit of Entrepreneurship

The House Food and Tap is more than just a restaurant; it's a platform for aspiring chefs and food artisans to showcase their talents and test the waters of the local market. By providing a shared space and resources, the Herns are empowering these entrepreneurs to bring their unique culinary visions to life. This collaborative approach not only diversifies the food options in the community but also fosters a spirit of innovation and risk-taking, paving the way for the next generation of culinary leaders.

Addressing the Parking Challenge

One of the key challenges faced by the Herns was finding adequate parking for their patrons. To overcome this obstacle, they have entered into a five-year lease with the Sisters of the Order of St. Benedict, securing a lot across the street that can accommodate up to 38 vehicles. This strategic move ensures that visitors to the House Food and Tap can enjoy a seamless dining experience, without the hassle of limited parking.

Transforming the West End of Downtown

The House Food and Tap is not just a standalone venture; it is part of a larger vision to revitalize the west end of downtown St. Joseph. Nate Keller, the community development director, sees the project as a crucial anchor for the area, diversifying the food options and providing a platform for local entrepreneurs to thrive. By strategically positioning the House Food and Tap in this growth area, the Herns are contributing to the overall economic and cultural development of the community.

Fostering a Collaborative Ecosystem

The Herns have not undertaken this endeavor alone. They have benefited from the coaching and support of the Greater St. Cloud Development Corp., a testament to the collaborative spirit that underpins the project. This partnership has helped the Herns navigate the challenges of launching a new venture and has strengthened their commitment to creating a sustainable and impactful culinary hub.

A Humble Approach to Success

The Herns' vision for the House Food and Tap is not one of grandeur or wealth accumulation. Instead, they are driven by a desire to create a space that can support their family and contribute to the community. BriAnne Hern's statement, "If it can pay the bills and maybe help some of our kids through college we'll be very excited," underscores their humble and grounded approach to success. This mindset reflects a deep commitment to the local community and a focus on creating a lasting impact, rather than short-term financial gain.

A Blended Family's Culinary Journey

The Herns' personal story adds a unique dimension to the House Food and Tap. As a blended family with four children, two of whom attend nearby St. John's University and two who go to Rocori High School, the Herns are deeply rooted in the local community. This connection to the area and their desire to create a space that can support their family's future further reinforces the project's significance as a community-driven endeavor.The House Food and Tap represents a transformative moment in the culinary landscape of St. Joseph, Minnesota. By empowering local entrepreneurs, addressing key infrastructure challenges, and fostering a collaborative ecosystem, the Herns are poised to redefine the dining experience and contribute to the overall growth and development of the community. As the project unfolds, the community eagerly awaits the culinary delights and the lasting impact that the House Food and Tap will bring to the heart of St. Joseph.