By Cathy Terwedow
Jacob’s Ladder Tavern recently opened where Papa Bob’s formerly stood. Under the leadership of new owners John Baldasaro and Don Ellershaw, Jacob’s Ladder Tavern (JLT) will continue to be a true community hub for everyone to enjoy. Dubbed “The Last Roadhouse,” the JLT logo harkens back to the time of country taverns and roadhouses, when people pulled off the road for food, drinks, music, and dancing. The new owners believe that’s still what people want and they have big plans to build on the site’s previous incarnations (The Riggs, Uncle Larry’s, and Papa Bob’s).
Before owning JLT, John Baldasaro served 30 years on the Chester Select Board. He was with the Chester Police Department even longer, which is where he met Don Ellershaw, who showed up one day in 1987 asking to see the police chief.
“Why do you want to see the chief?” asked Baldasaro. “Because I want a job,” replied Ellershaw. “Well, you’re looking at him,” said John, and the rest is history, as they have been friends and co-workers ever since.
Knowing that their friends Bob and Tami Scott, the owners of Papa Bob’s (who John credits with building up the restaurant side of the business), were looking to sell the pub, Don started pushing John to buy it.
It took years to convince him but, as John neared retirement and began thinking about things to keep himself busy, he finally agreed, believing that the conditions were too good to pass up and that buying Papa Bob’s would help their friends. “I figured we had spent enough time on the other side of the bar that it was time for us to try running the place. Besides, as police officers we have plenty of experience dealing with people when they aren’t on their best behavior!”
Once the papers were signed, the two owners began making changes, aiming to make JLT family-friendly and a place where different age groups could interact. “Darts, food, karaoke – that’s the vibe we’re going for,” said John.
Key to that vibe are movie-theatre-style popcorn and a private-label brew. According to John, “Perfecting the popcorn recipe was important. We made batch after batch, tweaking the recipe until it was just right. You literally can’t get better popcorn outside of a movie theatre.” Don agreed, “We have people who come in just for the popcorn!”
The owners are making changes to the building as well, enhancing the kitchen with new LED lighting, adding solar panels, better insulation and more. The entryway will be brighter and more welcoming, and the entire building will be painted light gray with blue trim.
In addition to serving great food in a warm and welcoming atmosphere, John stated “We want to be an integral part of the community. We see ourselves getting involved in lots of ways, including fundraising for local organizations like the police, the school, and the Arts Center.”
Many of JLT’s 12 employees worked at Papa Bob’s and all are local to the Hilltowns. “We are delighted that so many of them wanted to stay. They’re experienced and know the local culture,” said Don. “Our hope is that each of them will feel they have a stake in the business and will be proud of their role in making JLT successful.”
One thing that’s not changing is the outdoor patio. With its bandstand, separate bar, fire pit, ample lawn and picnic tables, it will continue to be a cherished site for music, parties and just plain hanging out.
John closed by saying, “It’s all about making people feel comfortable. We want Jacob’s Ladder Tavern to be welcoming, a place where friends and neighbors gather for good food, good music, and good times. Come on down. Be yourself, relax, and have a good time.”
Jacob’s Ladder Tavern is open seven days a week: 3pm – midnight Monday – Friday; noon – midnight Saturday and Sunday, and even later if people are still having fun!
