The Roadhouse tradition of “Good Food and Great Drinks” all began in 1959 when my grandparents - “Big” Jim and Rosie Nuser acquired what was then known as the Parkway Inn. The location stayed the same; however, little else did. The first change occurred in 1961 when the name was changed to the Roadhouse. Throughout the 60's and 70's extensive remodeling was undertaken on the interior and exterior of the building.
Along with being known around the state for our great food, the 350+ guns adorned on the walls gave credence to our becoming known as the Real Roadhouse.
After a brief change in ownership in the 80's, the Roadhouse was back in the hands of the people who loved it and make it what it had become, with only one change – the name. It thus became known as Ye Ol' Roadhouse ~ to symbolize that the old Roadhouse was back.
I helped run the restaurant with my grandparents until I was presented with one of the best opportunities of my life. In 1997 the reins were handed down to the youngest generation of the family. I, Ryan Colthorp, became owner of Ye Ol' Roadhouse.
In 1998, I started some changes of my own, by trying to bring in the northern Michigan theme to St. Johns. A total renovation, inside and out, has brought the look that I personally love. At the start of 2005, the largest project of all began. The bar was changed from 12 seats to 30+ seats to accommodate our growing business. All of these changes would not have been possible without the strong support of our community. We hope you enjoy all of the changes.
I have been so impressed with the kind of people of the St. Johns area and how much they have welcomed me here. If there is anything I can do to make you visit at Ryan's Roadhouse more enjoyable, please let me know.
Once again, thank you for making our house, your house for your meal out.
Sincerely, your host
Ryan