Visiting together at the Prairie Pub are, from left, manager Andy Round, bartender and cook Jody Harms, Marcia Round and bartender Quintin King.

Business owners Jesse and Joe Madden said working on their latest renovation project, Prairie Pub, was like returning home.

The pub, located at 226 Front St., opened Sept. 14 in Prairie City. The town is where the brothers grew up and graduated from school.

Jesse said the idea behind the project was to create a nice spot for people to gather — a tribute to their hometown.

“I like that it’s a family-friendly atmosphere, with good food, and we have 12 tap beers,” Joe said.

Jesse said they offer unique specials, including Taco Tuesdays and an all-you-can-eat nacho bar on Thursdays.

On Fridays, a rotating barbecue selection includes tri-tip, prime rib, pork loin and smoked stuffed meatloaf, served with two homemade sides.

Manager Andy Round, who cooks for Prairie Pub, said Fridays get pretty busy.

Another favorite on the menu is the PC Burger — a half-pound bacon cheeseburger, he said.

“They’re really digging our house-cut fries,” said bartender and cook Jody Harms.

Other items on the regular menu include a crispy chicken sandwich, steak fingers and buffalo wings.

“People love our selection of beers,” said bartender Quentin King.

Andy said they have the widest selection of craft beers on tap in Grant County from regional breweries such as Barley Brown’s in Baker City; Iron Horse in Ellensburg, Washington, and Boneyard and Deschutes in Bend.

They also have a selection of spirits to serve.

Harms said customers enjoy the warm and inviting atmosphere, which has an upscale-rustic style.

King took one of three guitars off the wall in the main dining area to play a tune. He said customers are encouraged to give it a try.

Jim Anderson cut the thick slabs of pine for the larger dining tables with Jesse and Joe doing the finishing work.

Fred Swearingen cut blue pine for the board-and-batten siding on the exterior.

The pub can accommodate larger gatherings with a main dining area that seats up to 26 and two tables for eight people on the front porch — both areas feature a TV.

Customers who are 21 and over can also sit at the bar counter or behind swinging doors where there is a poker table. Three video lottery machines will soon be added to the back room.

There is also seating for 18-20 people at the back patio.

Round’s wife, Marcia, has known the Madden brothers since they were young and has known King since he was a baby.

“We’re kind of a big family,” Marcia said.

Andy and Marcia moved to Prairie City from Bend nine months ago.

Managing the pub is a new adventure for Andy, who was a truck driver for 20 years.

“I’ve always enjoyed cooking and entertaining people,” Andy said.

Andy said he and his wife had wanted to move to Prairie City for a long time.

“We love the community,” he said. “People have been very friendly and welcoming to us.”

Looking around the pub, Andy said, “Personally, I’m very proud of this place. The Maddens put a lot of work into this.”

“Their heart and soul,” Harms added.

Prairie Pub is open 3-10 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays and 3-8 p.m. Sundays and Mondays.

For more information, call 541-820-3355 or visit the Prairie Pub Facebook page.