The Merry Table

By Christy Porter, Managing Editor

The Merry Table restaurant celebrated their Grand Opening last Thursday, with an appealing array of offerings on the menu for family dining at reasonable prices. The Merry Table is located at 205 Hickory Street, with the entry on Park St. The building was the old Masonic Lodge, which is across from Hickory Manor and behind Phoenix Pawn.

Richard and Monica Brandon, along with their five children, Abigail, Noah, Jeremiah, Isaac and Hannah began the new venture in fulfillment of a dream.

“I love to cook and feed people,” said Monica. “This is a calling more than a job.”

“I’ve always wanted to work with my family and be with them,” shared Richard.

Richard and Monica are in agreement when they say, “We have enjoyed the hospitality of the community, so many that have become family, and we want to extend that same hospitality back to the community.

“We’re not just feeding people but also sharing love with these same people,” emphasized the Brandons. “We’re not a fast food restaurant; we want our patrons to have a dining experience.”

Patrons may place their order with Abigail or Noah at the counter, and then seat themselves and their order will be brought to them.

Hannah, the youngest, happily fulfills her duties greeting the children who arrive with their families. Jeremiah and Isaac help wherever needed, as does Papa (Gary) Brandon, Richard’s father.

“It’s great seeing our kids shine using their individual gifts and talents, and their willingness to step up and help,” stated Richard.

Richard and Monica make the menu items from scratch, such as Italian pasta entrees and appetizers, Italian and American style combos, sandwiches and desserts, with the exception of a few items. There is also a limited number of gluten free choices. The menu itself was decided on as to not be in competition with other area eating establishments, as they desire that everyone succeed.

“Come, stay, enjoy yourself,” invite the Brandons. An alcove located in the rear of the restaurant allows for socializing and relaxing, and includes a selection of books to peruse and free Bibles to be shared.

The anticipated addition of a Bon Jovi board will allow a further opportunity for others to share the Brandons’ mission statement, “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in,” (Matthew 25:35, NIV).

The “Bon Jovi” board is a pay-it-forward method for patrons to purchase a meal and post the paid ticket on the board. Someone who needs a meal and is “strapped for cash” can take the ticket and eat a meal from the kindness of a past patron.

The Merry Table is open Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The Brandons purchased the building several years ago. After renting it out for a time they made the decision for an extensive and involved remodel and the pursuing of a dream. What seemed an enormous undertaking is now a very positive reality, beginning at impossible, moving to difficult, and then done, with a lot of hard work, learning and help from each other and others along the way.

Curbside service is available for those who might be challenged with the current entryway, as the dining area is located in the basement of the building and requires descending a short staircase.

The Brandons’ moved to Licking from Ft. Worth, Texas, six years ago to be closer to their parents. Richard previously worked in corrections and Monica managed the household and homeschooled their children. There was unfortunately not much time to meet people of the extended community; that has changed with the recent opening of the restaurant.

“Everyone has been so gracious,” said Richard. “We extend our appreciation to all who helped with the building remodel, as the building had many issues – we have met gifted people who have shared their gift(s) – and to the many patrons who shared our soft opening, and grand opening, which was unexpected and overwhelming.

“We especially appreciate the public’s patience as we progress on our learning curve of providing the public with a pleasurable dining experience; we are thankful.”

You can also find them on Facebook at The Merry Table or by calling 573-889-7947.