Dozens of construction workers spent Wednesday adding last-minute touches to the Gibson House Restaurant in downtown Centralia, prepping for today's invitation-only open house from noon to 10 p.m.
"All of my business neighbors are invited. They've been great and have had to put up with a lot," said owner Penny McWain, citing the extensive, year-long renovation of the three-story, 907 building.
The restaurant's official grand opening for the public will be on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
On Saturday, the Gibson House will host two "mock" lunches and dinners for the families and friends of the employees, serving as a trial run for the staff, according to McWain.
"I don't mind waiting another couple of days until we have the official opening. I want everyone (on the staff) to be comfortable," she said.
McWain even hired a restaurant consultant to teach employees such skills as the proper way to open a wine bottle.
"We're really working to provide the best in customer service," McWain said.
McWain hired Freddo Ganacias of Seattle as the restaurant's executive chief. Ganacias has more than 25 years of restaurant experience.
"Everything (on the menu) is all in the Northwest style, and made from scratch," Ganacias said.
Featured entrees include an array of steaks and seafood, with entrees ranging from $11.95 to $29.99.
"This is very exciting for Centralia. I think this will be a landmark where people will want to go," Ganacias said.
According to McWain, the restaurant currently has 65 employees. Much of the kitchen staff, including Ganacias, is commuting to work from either Seattle or Portland.
The main floor of the restaurant has dining tables lining the perimeter and a seven-card table mini-casino along the south end of the building.
"There has been a lot of interest in the casino," McWain said, noting that it will be open during today's open house.
In the main room is a 12-foot basalt boulder fountain, comprised of stones from the Columbia River.
The second level of the building has additional dining space along with a large conference room, equipped with wireless Internet access. The top floor houses office space.
Much of the restaurant's wood paneling and furniture was provided by the Ayala Brothers Furniture Co. across the street. Gerardo Ayala is McWain's son-in-law.
McWain also worked with architect Dave Keen and contractor Ron Sandrini in restoring the building.
"There has been a real advantage working in this community. The talent here is really amazing," McWain said.
McWain, who also owns Tower Tobacco and Espresso, purchased the building from Keith Willson in 2004. According to McWain, the restoration of the Gibson House has been a trying, yet rewarding experience.
"It's been a lot of work, but I love old buildings, and I love what I do," she said.
Robin McGinnis covers business issues for The Chronicle. She may be reached at 807-8231, or by e-mail at rmcginnis@chronline.com.
