Papi’s Eatery & Lounge stands as a beacon of culinary excellence in Owen Sound, drawing patrons from far and wide with its tantalizing array of handcrafted dishes and refreshing cocktails. Its Captain, is Jonathan, a seasoned industry veteran whose passion for hospitality and dedication to his craft have earned him a reputation as the master of mixology.
“I’ve been in the industry for 19 years…wow time flies,” reflects Jon with a chuckle and the memories of a journey that began in the hallowed halls of university kitchens. From the hustle and bustle of the back of house to the dynamic energy of the dining room, Jonathan’s career has been a testament to his versatility and unwavering commitment to excellence.
For Jon, the allure of the industry lies in its vibrant energy—the electric hum of a busy restaurant, where laughter mingles with the cheers-ing of glasses and the aroma of sizzling dishes fills the air. “There’s nothing like the vibe when a restaurant is busy and everything is flowing,” he muses, his words infused with nostalgia. “The dining room is full of people laughing, conversing, and enjoying good food and company.”
But amidst the organized chaos, Johnathan remains steadfast when asked about his pet peeve, which is rooted in a deep-seated appreciation for the dedication and hard work of both his fellow colleagues and the patrons they serve. “Unappreciation,” he declares, “of customers that don’t understand how hard people are working to provide them with their experience… and for not being grateful for the customers that come in every day.”
At the helm of the bar, Jonathan’s skill for mixology shines through in every pour and every meticulously crafted cocktail. While he enjoys the art of pouring pints, it’s the Caesar—a Canadian classic—that holds a special place in his heart. “I don’t like drinking them, but I make so many, and I have been told I make a damn good Caesar,” he admits. “I have confidence that if someone orders one, they are going to like it.”
But behind every great bartender lies a tale, a story that speaks to the essence of their persona. For Johnathan, that story begins with a simple nickname—Papi—a moniker bestowed upon him by a fellow cook on his first day in the kitchen. What started as a passing remark soon became his identity, a persona that would come to define his career in hospitality.
“I guess one story is how I got my nickname Papi,” he recalls with a laugh. “My first day working in a kitchen, one of the cooks says, ‘Hey Papi, go grab me some onions.’ He just randomly said it since I was Spanish.” And thus, Papi was born—a name that would follow him throughout his career, from kitchen to bar, and eventually to the doors of Papi’s Eatery & Bar.
With a nod to his roots and a nod to the future, Jonathan embraces his role as the heart and soul of Papi’s, a confirmation of the power of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of culinary excellence. So, the next time you find yourself in Owen Sound, raise a glass to Jonathan—the man behind the bar, the master of mixology, and the embodiment of hospitality at its finest. Cheers to Papi’s Eatery & Bar, where every sip and every dish are crafted with care.
Words by Krista Kulbach
Photos by Nelson Phillips
