The Hoito is now 100 years old.
President Paula Haapanen tells us they’re part of Thunder Bay’s history.
She describes it as a place that’s fed workers and provided a place to gather.
The restaurant opened on May 1st, 1918.
Haapanen says it’s amazing that it’s stood the test of time.
“The building is still standing after 108 years, and that the restaurant is still here in some form or other is significant,” She points out, calling it a “testament to how the Finns quietly but persistently make their way as a part of the community.”
Haapanen hopes they’ll be able to keep the restaurant running for another 100 years.
The restaurant wants to hear customers’ and current and former workers’ memories of the Hoito, which Haapanen explains will be shared at a reunion for everyone who’s worked at the restaurant since it opened.
The stories will also be posted on the Hoito’s social media.
She adds that they’re also temporarily bringing back the placemat menus the restaurant used to use, complete with the old prices from the last edition of the menu. (Staff Photo)
