Pitcher's Mound Expands Restaurant Business

By Jen Thomas - December 26, 2007

NORTH ADAMS - The Pitcher's Mound Pub has already built a reputation as a hometown bar, but co-owner Jack Rivard and new chef Christopher Deluca are ready to show just how much more they can do.

Debuting a renovated kitchen and an expanded menu earlier this month, the Mound is poised to become one of the city's hot lunch and dinner destinations.

"We're not trying to change too much," said DeLuca, who last worked as a chef at Taylor's Fine Dining. "We don't want people to think we're trying to say that we're not a bar anymore. We're just adding amenities."

View the Pitcher's Mound's new menu here
(PDF file 173KB)

Offering up traditional pub fare like quesadillas and mozzarella sticks alongside longtime favorites like steak tips, the Mound plans to reel in customers with the promise of good food at an affordable price.

"It's authentic, pub-style food - good portions at an good price. It's the same quality as the other guys, if not better, for a cheaper price," said Deluca.

Operating at the Ashland Street location for nearly 20 years, the Mound was recently forced to close down its kitchen for several months to meet new fire code regulations. Along with the upgrades, Rivard and co-owner Frederick "Fritz" Spooner thought the time was right to improve their dining services.

The Mound's new chef Chris Deluca hopes the expanded menu will attract new business.

"So far, we've gotten a lot of comments about it, a lot of positive responses. We're hoping to juggle both the bar and the restaurant sides of things. You have to turn the business as you go. We're hoping it takes off," said Rivard.

Rivard said he is waiting for the news about the restaurant's new opening to spread via word of mouth.

"It's going to take time," he said.

Meanwhile, Deluca is also working to develop a take-out service and eventual delivery option. Daily specials, a wide variety of choices and a relaxed atmosphere should be big draws for customers, said Deluca, and the restaurant is more than just your typical bar food.

"It all started with the college kids who came in here and then we started getting regulars. Now, the students don't come out until 10 or 11 [p.m.] and we can keep the restaurant open for people to just come in and enjoy a meal," said Rivard.

And the fate of the pub lies on Deluca's experienced shoulders.

"It's all in my hands, for the most part. It's what I do - I'm a kitchen guy; they're beer guys," he said.

Food is served at the Pitcher's Mound Pub from noon to 7 p.m., seven days a week, though the schedule is variable. Call the kitchen directly for more information at 662-2890.