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An inmate-turned-entrepreneur who found a second chance to open an Easton eatery plans to close next month in hopes of starting a new endeavor.
Palmer Township owner Leslie “Les” Smith opened Big Papa’s Breakfast Bistro at 1236 Northampton Street in April 2022. The space, located across from Paxinosa Elementary School, was previously occupied by Mike’s Family Restaurant. Smith currently plans to close the brick-and-mortar restaurant by February 1st in order to focus on running his food truck full-time.
If all goes well, Smith plans to take the truck to local events and perhaps park it in a permanent location. The truck will be loaded with barbecue comfort food. Think smoked chicken kebabs, burgers, hot dogs, and smoked BBQ pulled pork sandwiches paired with mashed potatoes or potato salad.
Smith broke the news of the bistro’s closure to loyal patrons on the company’s Facebook page this weekend.
“We would like to express our gratitude to everyone who has joined us on our journey here at Big Papa’s Breakfast Bistro,” the post states. “… We have enjoyed our journey as a brick-and-mortar store and wouldn’t trade our time here for anything. We would like to thank our community and our amazing customers who have become family. Local Stop by our event. Remember. Always dream big and you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you!!! Although this chapter is over , this is just the beginning of our story.”
Smith said he spent eight and a half years in prison, from the ages of 14 to 26, before being released in 2014.
His criminal offenses were the result of drug addiction, and Smith claimed in court that he acted in ways he would not otherwise have done. Mr Smith previously said he suffered from an impulse control disorder, which he said was exacerbated by his drug and alcohol use.
It wasn’t until he had a life-altering run-in with Easton police more than a decade ago that he began to make changes for the better. During his three years in state prison, his delusions diminished and he devoted himself to religious practice and study.
By the time Smith was released from prison in 2014, he had a felony conviction and an ongoing craving for drugs. A year later, with the help of his loved ones and his newfound faith, he was fully rehabilitated. Smith later married, he became a father of five children, and he found a way to stay on the right path, he said.
Smith previously said he started the restaurant because he was having trouble finding work after serving time in prison. He moved from job to job at restaurants. He also started a landscaping company as his side business, which later became a pool remodeling and construction company.
Smith currently co-owns the breakfast and lunch restaurant with his wife, Sabrina. They have known each other since elementary school.
The restaurant has always been known for its large portions, hence the name “Big Papa,” and it has a cozy atmosphere, Smith said. Some of this bistro’s previous menu items may appear on future food truck menus.
Bistro selections pay homage to the area, including the “West Ward Omelet.” “It’s a Western-style omelet with onions, green peppers, and ham.” The “Peace Candle Pancake” features a fried-style egg on top of a towering pancake. The Canal is a breakfast sandwich made with eggs, meat, and cheese inside a boat-shaped croissant.
In addition to a variety of burgers, there are also fried chicken and fish sandwiches, tacos, and bowls. Patrons recommend pairing it with freshly cut fries, a side of fish or shrimp, or macaroni and cheese.
Smith combined his restaurant, construction and entrepreneurial skills to renovate the Big Papa space. The decorations included a large sign depicting a postcard of Easton, inviting city residents to sign their names next to the wall.
Big Papa’s Breakfast Bistro will be open Sunday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. through February 1.
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Pamela Sroka-Holzmann can be contacted at: holzmann@lehighvalleylive.com.
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