TUNKHANNOCK — The former Twigs Restaurant & Cafe, 1 E. Tioga St., will transition into Smoak & Spirits, said Robert Bear, the new general manager and executive chef.
Twigs closed this week as part of the transition. Aug. 6 is the targeted opening date, Bear said.
He operated Smoak BBQ Grill & Meatery in Lake Winola from 2022 to 2025.
The new ownership aims to offer the same welcoming vibe Twigs exhibited throughout nearly 30 years in business.
“My motto is pretty much ‘unreasonable hospitality,’” Bear said, using a phrase from a book by Will Guidara, “Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect.”
“I like people to come in here and feel like they are with friends, with family, can sit comfortably, eat comfortably, and have a good time,” Bear said.
His concept for the restaurant focuses on international comfort food.
“I smoke most of my meats and then I take international comfort foods like ramen, or even something as simple as a burrito, and try to refine and elevate them.”
Former owner Jerry Bogedin, who operated Twigs for 27 years, thanked customers for their continued patronage through good times and challenging ones.
“It has truly been an honor to serve this community,” he said. “I hope you’ll extend that same support to the new owners as they begin this next chapter. You’ll continue to receive the same great service and be welcomed by the same outstanding staff you’ve come to know.”
Bogedin added all existing Twigs gift cards will be accepted.