Owners of new Madison Taphouse try to create atmosphere of friendly neighborhood bar

May 2—Krissy Goble and her boyfriend Eric Kacvinsky didn't take a long time to contemplate an opportunity to become the new owners of an established bar in Madison Township.

"We knew immediately," Goble said, recounting how she and Kacvinsky reacted when they heard that the Shore Tavern was up for sale.

The couple acted promptly in completing a purchase agreement for the bar and restaurant, located at 1421 Hubbard Road. And, on April 15, they opened the doors to their new Madison Taphouse. — Advertisement — Along with giving the business a different name, the pair have increased the beer and liquor selection, made changes to the food menu and rearranged the layout of the drinking and dining area.

So far, customers seem to be enjoying what the Madison Taphouse has to offer, Goble noted.

"We're getting lots of positive feedback," she said.

Both co-owners entered their new business venture with experience at running establishments which serve beverages and food to customers.

Kacvinsky previously worked as general manager of a winery. Goble served for 6 1/2 years as manager of the former Hannigan's Pub in Madison Township.

In addition, Goble possesses 30 years of experience as a bartender. Coincidentally, one of the places where she used to tend bar was the Shore Tavern. She worked for owners Gary and Kelly Skoch when they first opened the business.

The Skoch's sold the business after deciding to start living in Florida for half of every year.

The friendship between Goble and Kelly Skich dates back to when they were small children. Kelly, Gary and Goble also were classmates at Madison High School.

Goble said she had heard earlier this year from another person that Shore Tavern was for sale. She then proceeded to text Kelly about a possible purchase.

Then Goble talked about the potential business venture with Kacvinsky.

"I said, 'The Shore's for sale and I think we should buy it,' " Goble said.

After the couple discussed the idea, Goble contacted Kelly to express formal interest in an acquisition.

"Kelly said she'd sell it to us," Goble said. "And here we are."

Goble and Kacvinsky continue to add some of their personal touches to give Madison Taphouse a distinctive look.

A 40-foot addition to the current bar is being constructed and will add seating for about 15 more patrons. A new felt covering was added to the pool table, and plans also are in the works to paint the walls in the building's main room.

When it comes to food at Madison Taphouse, Goble said additional varieties of steaks are now being offered.

"We always have filet mignon, but the other steaks change periodically," she said.

Madison Taphouse also has decided to serve up more types of seafood, such as shrimp and scallops.

Goble said Madison Taphouse revises its food lineup daily to keep things interesting and appetizing for customers.

"We post the menu our Facebook page," she said.

The business also intends to at least double the number of its taps for draft beer.

Customers who visit are likely to see Goble and Kacvinsky on duty throughout each day.

"We're very hands-on, and people like it," said Goble, who also resides with Kacvinsky in Madison Township "We're all about the customers."

Kacvinsky said one of the rewarding things about opening Madison Taphouse has been "just doing something good that we're taking and creating that people are happy with."

Goble said she wants to ensure that it maintains the atmosphere of a friendly neighborhood bar and restaurant.

"We trying to do it for the community and whoever stops in," she said. "Make a nice place for them."

For more information on Madison Taphouse, call 440-307-4301 or visit the establishment's Facebook page.