Editor's Note: This article is part of a new online series launched in July 2023 by the City of Gainesville intended to highlight and promote must-try businesses in the area of the historic square in downtown Gainesville, Georgia. As the community continues to flourish and welcome new restaurants, retailers and service providers – especially within the downtown corridor – leadership wishes to introduce available offerings to residents and visitors alike ahead of their next trip to the City of Gainesville. Must-Try Monday features will be released weekly via gainesville.org and the @GainesvilleGeorgiaGovernment (City of Gainesville, Georgia) Facebook page. Be sure to "Like" and follow us on social media so you don't miss the latest and greatest about the Hospitality Capital of the World!
Standard Service | 400 Jesse Jewell Parkway | 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-midnight Friday-Saturday + 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday
GAINESVILLE, Ga. (Nov. 6, 2023) – In the mood to hit a casual-cool environment for bites and beers? Look no further than Standard Service, “your local neighborhood restaurant.”
Upon opening in summer 2022, Standard Service brought another brunch, lunch and dinner option to the western outskirts of the historic square in downtown Gainesville. The restaurant-taproom – owned by Billy Streck, Jon Kim and Ray Ballester – whips up brunch bites like chicken-and-waffle sliders, green eggs and ham, and apple walnut-stuffed French toast; lunch items like the foot-long chili cheese dog and Danny’s Donut burger; and dinner dishes like blackened shrimp and andouille sausage pasta, and crispy fried chicken breast.
“We are a family owned business and are proud to be a part of the Gainesville community!” states Area Director of Catering + Event Sales Glenda Thompson.
In addition to their menu of delicious offerings, Standard Service also offers a basement taproom experience, featuring 30 beers, ciders, sours, two seasonal cocktails, and 10 red and white wines on tap – what some might consider the ultimate indoor-outdoor gathering space.
“Our service standard helps us to define what a customer can expect from our neighborhood restaurant in terms of timeliness, quality, execution and hospitality,” Thompson states. “We look forward to having you in our gathering spot for all occasions.”
Learn the ins and outs of Standard Service, what makes it a Must-Try Monday-worthy business and why you should make it a destination the next time you're near downtown Gainesville by reviewing the exclusive Q+A with Thompson below.
Q: When did your business open and where? If your business has operated at other locations, please list those.
A: July 2022 [at 400 Jesse Jewell Parkway, Gainesville].
Q: How long have you been operating on the historic square in downtown Gainesville?
A: One year, three months.
Q: What drew you to operate your business in downtown Gainesville?
A: [The] thriving local community.
Q: What kinds of products and/or services does your business offer to the public?
A: Quality food and beverages, private event space, taproom experience, trivia, live music and karaoke.
Q: Can you give some examples of unique products and/or services you offer that aren’t easily replicated elsewhere in town?
A: The Basement Taproom Experience: Guests can dine and enjoy our beautiful indoor-outdoor space complete with 30 beers, ciders, sours, two seasonal cocktails, 10 red and white wines on tap, six TVs, high-top tables, couches for lounging and private bathrooms. Our taproom is a super fun way to try and experience several local craft beers, wines and cocktails as you get to be your own bartender! Also, the Patio Camper Bar: Open every Thursday-Sunday (weather permitting). Guests can walk right up, order and pay for a specialty cocktail or special craft beer that is only served from the Standard Service Camper!
Q: What offerings are you most proud of and why? Give us the scoop!
A: Our taproom as it's a one-of-a-kind space and guest experience in Gainesville featuring 40 self-serve taps of local craft beers, wines and cocktails!
Q: Do you target a specific audience? If so, can you please specify?
A: Everyone welcomed!
Q: If you aim to target everyone, can you please explain how and through what products and/or services?
A: Our menu offers lots of variety at a great price point. In addition, we offer a kids' menu and weekly specials. We have lots of fun weekly events such as trivia, live music and karaoke!
Q: What is your favorite “must try” item you offer and why?
A: We love our Danny's Donut Burger! We have partnered up with Danny's Donuts – Gainesville using their fresh glazed Danny's Donut "bun", patty, fried egg, bacon and American cheese! At $13, it's a MUST-TRY!
Q: In your own words, what makes your business a positive addition to the downtown cityscape?
A: We revitalized and brought new life to an old Gainesville gas station! Our restaurant features a large patio and garage doors which connect the indoor and outdoor dining spots – not to mention an entire downstairs area which serves as the taproom, offering self-serve taps for beer and wine drinkers.
Q: Anything else you’d like to add?
A: Buyouts and private event space are available! Email [email protected] for more details!
PHOTO CUTLINE | Standard Service is located at 400 Jesse Jewell Parkway just off the historic square in downtown Gainesville. Find additional photos shared via the @GainesvilleGeorgiaGovernment Facebook page.