Another Barrie original is launching today when FunDoozies Fondue Bar and Eatery opens its doors to the public.
Owner Paul Phillips held a private gathering Tuesday night to celebrate and he's ready to take the wraps off his unique creation.
Located at the corner of Dunlop St. West and Mary St., Phillips says there's already huge interest in the restaurant which is his first foray into the food service industry.
"We had over 470 either emails or phone calls for reservations from anywhere from 2 to 20 people," said Phillips who recommends people call ahead to ensure a table.
There's also been inquiries about franchises and Phillips says that is part of his future plans.
The idea for FunDoozies had been simmering for a long time with the former top level executive and entrepreneur who once started a successful Barrie-based marketing company with Pinball Clemens.
The restaurant, that will seat about 30 people, will be serving gas at FunDoozies 'gas station.'
Helium to make your voice high and xenon to make it low. Just for fun.
"I love the name FunDoozies and it's all going to be about fun," said Phillips, who joked he hadn't slept for quite a while.
"I'm very happy. My friends love the way it looks. They think it's going to be a fun place to go."
The story behind the eatery starts in 2015 when Phillips' brother Ed was hit by a car and suffered life-altering injuries. Ed needs someone to be with him and Phllips wanted something to keep busy while he looks after his brother.
Caregivers help but with a mom who is 86, Phillips stepped up.
He can see his condo from his restaurant so it will be easy for him to go back and forth.
Ed was at the celebration, a big smile on his face as he was sipping a fancy slushie.
"Its really good," said Ed of his brother's neighbourhood spot. "I helped a little bit."
Phillip's says FunDoozies is a warm, friendly and fun addition to downtown Barrie and is chock-a-block with lots of his own treasures,.
The exceptions being a totem pole and 14-foot giraffe that wouldn't fit in the small eatery.
"Pretty well everything in here is from my condo. Ninety percent of it," laughed Phillips.
FunDoozies Fondue Bar and Eatery is located at 66 Dunlop St. West.
Due to limited seating, it's best to call ahead for reservations at (705) 733-2525.
