Interview by Tiffany Evers
Photos by Kelsey Walters and property of East Coast Current
Q&A with Owners Leea Murphy and Rick Kantor
Q: Everyone has a story to tell about why they open a business and why they chose the name. What’s your story?
A: We have always enjoyed Main Street. I worked at this location under a previous owner. We saw the potential it had if someone gave it a little TLC. So, when the opportunity came to take over we jumped on it. As for the name…Rick thought it was a small intimate venue and it needed an “identity” and we really couldn’t agree on a name. Several drinks later, our cats were playing and I yelled, “Peanut! George!” Rick yelled, “Pub on Main!” So, yes – the pub is named after our rescue cats.
Q: When did you open your doors?
A: November 2, 2018.
Q: Have you worked in the service industry before or do you have experience owning/managing a restaurant?
A: Rick was a retired pilot. During his retirement, he learned to grow pansies and it was getting out of control. When this location became available, we knew this would be the next chapter in our lives (laughing). Rick says, “That’s nowhere near the truth. Leea couldn’t keep a job, so I had to buy her one.” (Both laughing) We both have several years in the industry but this is our first go around owning our own business.
Q: What sets you apart from other pubs in our area?
A: “Where everyone knows your name and they’re always glad you came,” are not just pretty words in an old song…our staff, our regular patrons and ourselves will make you feel this way from the first time you step through our doors. It’s your home away from home with of course, great food and questionable service.
Q: You are located on the main drag in Daytona, which makes you a prime location for so many popular events throughout the year. How do you prepare for accommodating these larger crowds?
A: A wing, and a prayer…and lots of rum!
Q: What’s the most popular menu item for breakfast, lunch and dinner?
A: Breakfast: Lobster Benedict and a French Toast Club. Lunch: We roast our corned beef in-house, so hands down, the Reuben. Dinner: Steak Tips from hand-cut marinated flank steak.
Q: Do you have special offers for locals?
A: The “ALIBI.” Our regular patrons have their own time card. They clock in when they are here. After a certain amount of punches, they are rewarded with specials.
Q: Your building is a part of historic downtown Daytona, do you have any original items or things you have done inside that honors its history?
A: Main St. Cafe served Main Street for over 20 years. We still have the mirror that once hung there. We also exposed the original brick that is behind the bar. It gives it a little rustic, open feeling.
Q: What type of weekly entertainment do you offer your guests?
A: Wednesday we have Open Mic with Randy from 6-10 p.m. featuring lots of great local talent. Monday, Friday and Saturday we have karaoke with “The Voice of Main Street, Jay the KJ” from 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. It is definitely the best party on Main Street. The second Thursday of the month we have Ladies Night. Where else can you go enjoy a glass of wine and have your Tarot cards read? Irene comes to the pub and offers Tarot readings from 5-9 p.m.
Peanut & George’s Pub on Main
821 Main St., Daytona Beach, FL 32118
(386) 238-9437
PeanutAndGeorges.com
facebook.com/Peanut-Georges-Pub-on-Main
