Gather 'round and let me tell you a tale ‘bout a lil' place that's been smokin’ hot and servin’ up award-winnin’ meals for nearly a decade—Jake’s Place. Nestled on the edge of downtown Ashland, this gem is gettin’ ready to celebrate its 10th birthday, and let me tell ya, they're goin' all out with an anniversary collaboration that'll make your taste buds dance.
Jake’s Place ain’t just a restaurant; it’s a piece of history. Built back in 1926 as a gas station, it served the community until the mid-70s. Wendy Yohman, who grew up dreamin' about bringin' the ol' place back to life, did just that with her husband John. In 2013, they embarked on the unthinkable—turnin’ that old BP station into a thriving eatery. After two years of hard work and dedication, Jake’s Place was born, named in honor of Jake and Rosalie Spears, who operated the station for over 45 years.
Owner Wendy Yoman outside of Jake’s Place.
The spirit of the old gas station lives on in the decor—where gas pumps once stood, there’s now a smoker puffin’ away. The walls are adorned with Sinclair Gasoline and Center of the BBQ signs, and a cozy natural wood bench invites you to sit a spell while waitin’ for a table. Inside, you’ll find a market stocked with local goodies and Jake’s Place originals, along with photos that tell the story of its transformation and well-deserved awards.
Step into the main dining room and you’ll feel like you’ve walked into a southern livin’ room, complete with a buck bust mounted over the fireplace mantel. The patio is a sight to behold, with wide-open windows, wooden tables, and a chandelier made from antlers and a gigantic wagon wheel.
Now, let me paint y’all a picture. Imagine sippin’ on a Southern Comfortable Peach Ale, a refreshin' summer brew specially crafted for the anniversary by the good folks at Center of the Universe Brewing Company. This ain't just any drink, folks—it's the perfect pairin' for these hot southern days.
As you sip, dive into a plate of Butt Fries. Don’t let the name fool ya—these beer-battered fries topped with pulled pork and cheddar cheese sauce, with a side of sour cream, are anything but the butt end of a joke. They're downright heavenly!
But that’s just the beginnin’. Sink your teeth into a full rack of St. Louis Ribs, smoked daily and mopped with Jake’s Sauce. They’re so good, they’ve got folks linin’ up, and trust me, you don’t wanna miss out 'cause they do sell out.
And what’s a southern meal without a sweet finish? Treat yourself to a slice of Apple Pie, because nothing says southern comfort quite like it. And if you’re feelin’ adventurous, keep an eye on the specials. That Soft Shell Crab Sandwich with Cole Slaw and Beer Battered Fries is a moment you’ll be glad you seized before it crab-crawled away.
So come on down to Jake’s Place. Help 'em celebrate their 10th anniversary in style, and while you’re at it, don’t forget to call ahead for that Southern Comfortable Peach Ale—it sells out faster than you can say "y’all come back now, ya hear?"
Let’s raise a glass and a fork to Jake’s Place—here’s to many more smokin' hot years!