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From the Forest Floor: How The Pines Found Its Roots
🎙️ Episode Title:
From the Forest Floor: How The Pines Found Its Roots
đź’ Episode Description:
In this episode of the Epic Voices Podcast, we sit down with Chris Bebe, owner and operator of The Pines in Malone, New York. Chris shares his journey from starting in the restaurant industry at just 15 years old to building one of the community’s most beloved dining destinations.
The conversation explores the evolution of The Pines from a small lunch spot and bar into a full-service restaurant known for its welcoming atmosphere, homemade food, and strong community roots. Chris reflects on the challenges of running a small-town restaurant, the importance of loyal staff and customers, and the memories that make local restaurants so meaningful.
Whether you're a regular at The Pines, a fan of small business success stories, or someone who appreciates the role restaurants play in bringing communities together, this episode offers a heartfelt look at the passion, perseverance, and people behind a local favorite.
👤 Guest Information:
Name: Chris Bebe
Title: Owner & Operator, The Pines
Background:
- Owner and operator of The Pines restaurant in Malone, New York
- Began working in the restaurant industry at age 15 at Donovan’s Steak & Ale
- Graduated from college before deciding to pursue culinary arts full time
- Attended culinary trade school to refine his skills
- Took over The Pines in February 2019 and helped transform it into a full-service restaurant
- Focuses on creating a welcoming community gathering place built around good food and shared experiences
⏱️ Episode Highlights:
[00:01] Introduction & Welcoming the Guest
The episode opens with a reflection on the role restaurants play in communities before introducing Chris Bebe from The Pines.
[00:45] Chris’ Journey into the Restaurant Industry
Chris shares how he began cooking at age 15 at Donovan’s Steak & Ale and how those early experiences led him to pursue culinary training and a career in the food industry.
[03:40] The Meaning Behind The Pines
Chris discusses what the restaurant means to him personally and how food has the power to bring people together regardless of background.
[05:57] The Role of Restaurants in Small Towns
A conversation about why restaurants are essential gathering spaces in communities like Malone and how they help create shared experiences.
[06:59] Taking Over The Pines in 2019
Chris reflects on purchasing the restaurant and transforming it from a small bar and lunch spot into a full-service dining destination.
[08:56] Renovations and Growth
The discussion turns to the improvements made over time, including kitchen upgrades, new equipment, and ongoing investments in the restaurant.
[10:40] Signature Menu Items
Chris highlights popular dishes including the Bark Burger, shrimp tacos, and the Greek avocado salad with house-made dressing.
[11:42] The Importance of Staff
Chris explains how dedicated employees and long-term staff members help create the welcoming environment that keeps customers coming back.
[12:28] Memorable Moments at The Pines
Chris recalls the first night operating the restaurant and how loyal customers celebrated the transition.
[14:06] Navigating the COVID-19 Pandemic
A unique story about bringing a PlayStation to the restaurant during shutdowns and inviting customers to play Mario while waiting for takeout orders.
[16:57] The Pines Today
Chris reflects on the restaurant’s current success and the pride he takes in building a place where people feel comfortable gathering.
[19:42] Events & Community Gatherings
The Pines hosts several events including paint-and-sip nights, holiday parties, Breakfast with Santa, and seasonal brunches.
[22:47] Challenges Facing Restaurants Today
Chris discusses economic pressures, rising costs, and the difficulty of finding the right staff as ongoing challenges for small restaurants.
[24:43] Looking Toward the Future
Chris shares hopes for continued growth and possibly opening another location someday.
[26:24] Creating Memories for the Next Generation
Chris reflects on how meaningful it is when families build memories at The Pines, just like he did at restaurants growing up.
[28:37] Supporting Local Suppliers & Community Organizations
The Pines partners with local farms and suppliers while also supporting organizations like Community Connections and local shelters.
[30:36] What Chris Hopes First-Time Visitors Feel
Chris jokes that the most important thing is that guests leave full — and hopefully happy enough to come back.
đź’¬ EPIC Quotes:
"Food is one of those things where no matter what background you've got or where you come from, it's something that can bring people together."
— Chris Bebe
"At the end of the day, I'm very thankful that I get to do what I do. Without customers coming through the door to create memories here, I wouldn't be able to keep doing it."
— Chris Bebe
"Even something simple — like a kid coming here after a hockey game with their team — can turn into a memory they carry for years."
— Chris Bebe
đź“Ł Call to Action:
Like what you heard? Subscribe to EPIC Voices for more conversations with the people shaping our community. From local business owners to community leaders and storytellers, each episode brings you closer to the voices that make our region unique.
Follow EPIC Voices on social media to stay connected, discover new episodes, and celebrate the stories that keep our community strong.
View all episodes
By TruNorthern🎙️ Episode Title:
From the Forest Floor: How The Pines Found Its Roots
đź’ Episode Description:
In this episode of the Epic Voices Podcast, we sit down with Chris Bebe, owner and operator of The Pines in Malone, New York. Chris shares his journey from starting in the restaurant industry at just 15 years old to building one of the community’s most beloved dining destinations.
The conversation explores the evolution of The Pines from a small lunch spot and bar into a full-service restaurant known for its welcoming atmosphere, homemade food, and strong community roots. Chris reflects on the challenges of running a small-town restaurant, the importance of loyal staff and customers, and the memories that make local restaurants so meaningful.
Whether you're a regular at The Pines, a fan of small business success stories, or someone who appreciates the role restaurants play in bringing communities together, this episode offers a heartfelt look at the passion, perseverance, and people behind a local favorite.
👤 Guest Information:
Name: Chris Bebe
Title: Owner & Operator, The Pines
Background:
- Owner and operator of The Pines restaurant in Malone, New York
- Began working in the restaurant industry at age 15 at Donovan’s Steak & Ale
- Graduated from college before deciding to pursue culinary arts full time
- Attended culinary trade school to refine his skills
- Took over The Pines in February 2019 and helped transform it into a full-service restaurant
- Focuses on creating a welcoming community gathering place built around good food and shared experiences
⏱️ Episode Highlights:
[00:01] Introduction & Welcoming the Guest
The episode opens with a reflection on the role restaurants play in communities before introducing Chris Bebe from The Pines.
[00:45] Chris’ Journey into the Restaurant Industry
Chris shares how he began cooking at age 15 at Donovan’s Steak & Ale and how those early experiences led him to pursue culinary training and a career in the food industry.
[03:40] The Meaning Behind The Pines
Chris discusses what the restaurant means to him personally and how food has the power to bring people together regardless of background.
[05:57] The Role of Restaurants in Small Towns
A conversation about why restaurants are essential gathering spaces in communities like Malone and how they help create shared experiences.
[06:59] Taking Over The Pines in 2019
Chris reflects on purchasing the restaurant and transforming it from a small bar and lunch spot into a full-service dining destination.
[08:56] Renovations and Growth
The discussion turns to the improvements made over time, including kitchen upgrades, new equipment, and ongoing investments in the restaurant.
[10:40] Signature Menu Items
Chris highlights popular dishes including the Bark Burger, shrimp tacos, and the Greek avocado salad with house-made dressing.
[11:42] The Importance of Staff
Chris explains how dedicated employees and long-term staff members help create the welcoming environment that keeps customers coming back.
[12:28] Memorable Moments at The Pines
Chris recalls the first night operating the restaurant and how loyal customers celebrated the transition.
[14:06] Navigating the COVID-19 Pandemic
A unique story about bringing a PlayStation to the restaurant during shutdowns and inviting customers to play Mario while waiting for takeout orders.
[16:57] The Pines Today
Chris reflects on the restaurant’s current success and the pride he takes in building a place where people feel comfortable gathering.
[19:42] Events & Community Gatherings
The Pines hosts several events including paint-and-sip nights, holiday parties, Breakfast with Santa, and seasonal brunches.
[22:47] Challenges Facing Restaurants Today
Chris discusses economic pressures, rising costs, and the difficulty of finding the right staff as ongoing challenges for small restaurants.
[24:43] Looking Toward the Future
Chris shares hopes for continued growth and possibly opening another location someday.
[26:24] Creating Memories for the Next Generation
Chris reflects on how meaningful it is when families build memories at The Pines, just like he did at restaurants growing up.
[28:37] Supporting Local Suppliers & Community Organizations
The Pines partners with local farms and suppliers while also supporting organizations like Community Connections and local shelters.
[30:36] What Chris Hopes First-Time Visitors Feel
Chris jokes that the most important thing is that guests leave full — and hopefully happy enough to come back.
đź’¬ EPIC Quotes:
"Food is one of those things where no matter what background you've got or where you come from, it's something that can bring people together."
— Chris Bebe
"At the end of the day, I'm very thankful that I get to do what I do. Without customers coming through the door to create memories here, I wouldn't be able to keep doing it."
— Chris Bebe
"Even something simple — like a kid coming here after a hockey game with their team — can turn into a memory they carry for years."
— Chris Bebe
đź“Ł Call to Action:
Like what you heard? Subscribe to EPIC Voices for more conversations with the people shaping our community. From local business owners to community leaders and storytellers, each episode brings you closer to the voices that make our region unique.
Follow EPIC Voices on social media to stay connected, discover new episodes, and celebrate the stories that keep our community strong.