It’s time to get rowdy, Cambridge.
A new establishment, Rowdy’s Bar and Restaurant, has taken over the old Pizza Hut location at 406 Hespeler Rd and will be hosting its grand opening this Saturday.
Colourful booths and eye catching artwork create a welcoming vibe that is unmistakable upon entering.
It’s exactly what owners Ambrish and Annie Saini wanted to create, a place where people could gather and feel inspired.
“It’s a dream which my husband wanted to pursue,” Annie said.
“We want to inspire people. If you’re passionate about your dreams you can do it. The name ‘Rowdy's’ comes from wanting to tell people to put in positive vibes, be rowdy, pursue your dreams and think outside of the box, in a positive sense.”
The restaurant is meant to help people escape the rigours of every day life, even for a little while, Annie says
“We wanted to create something where people could come and forget their worries,” she said. “They can come to enjoy and have fun. You can see the theme is like that.”
More than just food and drinks, events are already being planned including game nights, music nights with a DJ, karaoke, open mics and a Hollywood and Bollywood themed celebration.
In the first few weeks of operation, the Sainis want to hear feedback from the community on what they like and what they’d like to see as the restaurant and bar aims to become another late night option for residents in the city.
Open 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. on weekdays and 12 p.m. to 2 a.m. on weekends, the menu will feature traditional pub style food along with Indian selections.
Appealing to everyone was incredibly important, Annie says.
“People are going to Toronto and Brampton for their entertainment,” she said.
“We were talking to different people about what they want here. We want to do something for people here so they’re not going out of town.”
The Saini’s, who already own the Daisy Food Mart just down the road, found inspiration during the COVID-19 pandemic but realize for others it was a time of struggle and social isolation.
“It was good for us because it gave us time to open another business and Ambrish jumped into the restaurant,” Annie said.
“There are so many people who are depressed. Let’s forget about our worries and get back on track and be positive. When the people are in here they should be thinking about having fun. On Monday morning we want them to wake up and feel good.”
The grand opening will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday and feature a live musical performance.