Poor Richard's Campus is reopening on Friday, May 3rd, under new management dedicated to reviving the food and atmosphere to its highest level. Patrons can stop by Monday through Thursday of this week between 9am and 5pm for a sneak peak and a glass of Maxine's Finest Iced Tea. The restaurant will officially open for lunch on Friday at 11am.
The classic ETSU nightlife is back as well. Phoenix recording artist Brad Puckett will play opening night on Friday. Phat Wes will return karaoke to PR's on Tuesday nights. A talented surprise DJ is expected to take the stage on Saturdays and Thursdays - yes, the longest running, most successful ETSU college night is back every Thursday night.
Poor Richard's has been serving sandwiches and Maxine's Finest Iced Tea to the ETSU area of Johnson City since 1976. Ownership changed hands in 2006, and then once more before the latest owner shut the doors on PR's late last year. The food and customer service declined over the last few years, but that's all set to change now - or change back I should say.
Daniel Shell was an employee and bar manager at PRs during an era when PR's was experiencing its greatest success. Shell and his wife had hoped to open a restaurant when the PR's space recently went up for lease. The opportunity was too good to pass up. Shell is also bringing back Brian Hilton, Poor Richard's original deli manager. The Super Hoagie, the RB Delight, and The General are all back on the menu.
"It's going to go back, as close as I can get it, to the original menu the way it was in the mid-80s and '90s. We're going to put a twist on some things and make some more modern stuff, but we're still going to have the same sandwiches." Shell told the Johnson City Press.
Poor Richard's will also be a prime location to support the recently reinstated Buccaneer Football program. A Buc Football Bash event is already planned for early June.
To inquire about job opportunities and all the great new things happening at the brand new, but original Poor Richard's, head over to their new Facebook page.
