Entertainment on the Menu: How Local Businesses are Driving Growth
By Christine MacIntyre
In recent years, Leslie has experienced a surge in local entertainment options. The establishments that participate and often facilitate the entertainment are about serving great food and fostering a vibrant community. Their significant impact on the local business landscape is a testament to the unwavering support and pride that the community has for its local businesses.
Strolling through downtown Leslie, greeted by music from a local restaurant or the lingering scent of trendy eats, a vibrant community overtakes the senses. Live music adds a unique vibe for those enjoying a meal or a cold brew. Events like the Ducking Around Jeep Run or the Fall Festival bring playful excitement to the mix.
On weekend afternoons and evenings, and sometimes even on weekdays, vehicles line the streets, which is evidence of a good time had by people of all ages enjoying all that the community has to offer. And the best part? These experiences are entertaining, affordable, and accessible, ensuring everyone can be part of the fun.
Boss Cider & Brews
Stepping into Boss Cider Co. is a sensory delight. The air is filled with the enticing aromas of zesty barbeque, hearty seasoned meats, and various ciders. This family-owned and operated restaurant offers a unique dining experience, from its diverse appetizers and unique entrees to its selection of 28 taps with rotating beers, seltzers, and wines.
The frequent live music adds an extra layer of entertainment to the lively atmosphere, making it a must-visit for those seeking a memorable dining experience. Guests can relax on the spacious outdoor patio with an ice-cold cider float and a mouth-watering brioche bun burger. All while enjoying the music of local artists like the father-daughter duo Matt and Kaelee Foreman and up-and-coming artist Cooper Johnson.
“We strive to host local bands,” said Jim Every, owner of Boss Cider. “And, we’re always open to helping new people out; to give them an opportunity.”
The interior and ambient lighting create a relaxed atmosphere for diners seeking a classy yet fun experience. The spacious indoor area is also available for artists to perform. In the winter, Boss Cider Co. offers a unique and beloved feature for patrons of all ages — cozy igloos on the patio. With comfy seating, these igloos provide a warm and intimate setting, perfect for enjoying a meal or drink with friends or family.
“We know that there’s a definite need in the community for great food establishments and entertainment,” said Every. “We’re always coming up with new options to keep everyone entertained. For example, this fall, we are bringing back the chili cookoff with the addition of a hot wing contest.”
Another Popular Restaurant & Sports Bar
Across the street, Crossroads Grill & Bar offers a unique sports bar scene with tempting food options, including half-pound Angus burgers, Mexican platters, wraps, finger foods, and intriguing daily specials.
In addition to leaving with a full stomach, patrons can enjoy games, such as pool and various arcade games. The drink menu is equally diverse, ranging from beer to cocktails. Crossroads features special menus on specific days, such as Southern dry rub BBQ on Saturdays and a Friday night fish fry.
The variety of food, games, and drinks at Crossroads ensures something for everyone. Crossroads owner Rachel Schumaker said she’s planning some fun things in the future, such as live music and trivia nights. Currently, the restaurant offers a spacious room for hosting parties and gatherings. The space accommodates up to 80 people.
“Options such as a taco bar, wraps, or salads are perfect for these types of events,” said Schumaker. “We are always willing to work with people to cater to them and make their special day perfect.”
The space fills a gap, as people often seek air-conditioned or heated, convenient places to hold baby showers, wedding showers, birthday parties, or company parties. Additionally, Crossroads caters outside events like graduation parties or weddings.
Experiential Events Draw Visitors
The savvy restaurateurs behind these establishments have realized that by adding a dash of entertainment to their menu, they’re cooking up a recipe for success far beyond their kitchens. This mindset transforms the local dining scene from merely dining out to a memorable experience.
As active members of the Leslie community, Crossroads and Boss Cider hosted the second annual 2024 Ducking Around Jeep Run. Each drew in hungry Jeep lovers with special event menus. Hundreds of people lined over 150 Jeeps up at Awaken Haunt, just a short jaunt away, where vendors, food, music, and a blessing of the Jeeps kicked off the fun-filled day.
The Jeepers then stopped at participating destinations, which included bars in Jackson, Pleasant Lake, Dansville, Mason, and Leslie, to receive their rubber ducks and enjoy each establishment’s food and drink options. Crossroads was a participating stop. They set up their Southern dry rub BBQ outside and featured fun drink specials.
Once people collected a duck and card punch from each location, they finished at Boss Cider to turn in their punch cards to win prizes. Boss served up live music and a lively hangout atmosphere in which participants could end the night with more food, drinks, and fun. This event, and the participation of these local businesses, is a shining example of the strong community spirit in Leslie, a spirit that everyone can be proud of and that goes above and beyond merely running a restaurant.
“When you’re a small business, collaboration and partnership in events is the only way to make it work,” said Every. “Working together, we all win.”
A Haunting Destination
Another unlikely local business contributing to the community’s entertaining culture that draws in people from near and far is Awaken Haunt. Even though it’s located near US 127, Awaken Haunt is not just about the scares, but also about community involvement, making it a unique and valuable part of the Leslie entertainment scene.
While it is known for its terrifyingly fun haunted attraction in the fall, it is also an active participant in several events throughout the year. Awaken and Boss frequently team up for immersive events, such as the Mardi Gras Murder Mystery, the Leslie Halloween costume contest, and the zombie walk. Their Love Bites! Valentine’s event this past February consisted of a total blackout haunt and dinner at Boss Cider. And, they hosted shock illusionist Dan Sperry’s thrilling, sold-out magic shows.
Owner Brian McVay emphasized that while they prepare for the Halloween season, they enjoy helping local businesses and supporting the community. Awaken Haunt works with the local community sponsoring events, supporting their neighbors, and bringing more traffic to the area.
“The Halloween season only comes around once a year,” said McVay. “We are involved in events year round that help other local businesses, support our community, and keep our name out and about.”
They’ve also hosted events at Awaken for the Leslie Area Chamber of Commerce as well as the Jackson and Mason chambers. Supporting non-Halloween-related events puts them front and center as a standout contributor to the community.
Leslie Really is “The Place to Be!”
From live music on the patio at Boss Cider or memory-filled nights with friends at Crossroads Grill & Bar, to getting your scare fix at the Awaken Haunted Attraction and pop-up events in between, there’s a diverse range of entertainment options to explore in Leslie. Low cost, or no cost options like Leslie’s Fall Festival, are thanks to area businesses that enjoy contributing to a fun and entertaining community that locals and visitors can enjoy.
“Crossroads is not only a place to stop and eat, but a space that provides a safe after school stop for local kids, a place where we have watched this community grow and flourish, and a fun place to go where you will most likely know everyone you see!” said Schumaker. “None of it would be possible without the great town of Leslie.”
