EDITOR’S NOTE: This is our first in an on-going series of business features sponsored by the Economic Development Council of Tillamook County’s LEVEL UP Tillamook program. Have a suggestion for a small business feature? Send us an email with your ideas editor@tillamookcountypioneer.net.
By Laura Swanson
An iconic North Oregon Coast restaurant in Nehalem, Wanda’s Cafe + Bakery opened in October 1999, with current owners Frank Squillo and Patrick Conner taking over in January 2019. Well-known for delectable baked goods, breakfasts, and lunches, Wanda’s reputation for great food has continued. “We kept essentially the same menu that has been a Wanda’s staple,” said Frank Squillo, “and the baked goods, scones, and cookies, but we did add fresh bread.” Open seven days a week from 8 am to 2 pm, serving breakfast and lunch, and on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, the renowned plate-size cinnamon rolls and other specialty breads are available. “We were attracted to Wanda’s because of its great reputation and how loved it was by the community,” commented Frank.
After years of living throughout the country as Frank worked in the top 10 markets in radio and television, Patrick was hired by Nike in Beaverton, Oregon, and they settled in Portland. When Frank retired, the inevitable “what’s next?” question was answered with “Let’s find a business at the coast to buy.” Frank explained, “The restaurant business is in my blood. I have memories working at our family pizza place.” He continued, “And it’s like being a morning radio show host – my listeners would tune in, enjoy listening, and come back. Now, as host at Wanda’s, I want them to come in, enjoy their experience, and come back.”
Frank and Patrick didn’t just jump into the restaurant business, added Frank, “We did our homework, hired consultants, and did our due diligence. We wanted to be sure that we were prepared for anything.” Then the unexpected happened: a global pandemic and the closure of restaurants to dining in. “No one could plan for a pandemic but we pivoted to take-out and worked to open more outdoor seating,” explained Frank. They also utilized Patrick’s merchandising skills and the then-unused restaurant space to feature a fun, eclectic mix of local and regional products that celebrate the Oregon Coast, foodie treats, and the outdoors. Now, post-Covid, Wanda’s continues to carry a variety of great gift products, so while you wait for your table or scoop up a scone, there’s a great selection of unique products to peruse.
Frank and Patrick gave Wanda’s a total transformation, from the back patio garden oasis to the cozy interior – keeping the good stuff and elevating the dining experience. There are, of course, challenges, and it’s the same for most small businesses – staffing- finding and keeping good people. Wanda’s employs about 22 people throughout the year, with a staff of nearly 30 during the summer season. “I’m pro-worker and value our employees, providing health insurance and benefits. We keep as many of our employees through the slow season,” explained Frank. “Our staff is the most stable it’s been, and that’s the first time in awhile that I can say that.”
The hospitality business is a grind, and there’s been a noticeable increase in abusive customers, noted Frank. “I have zero tolerance for that behavior and expect our customers to treat our staff with kindness and respect,” said Frank. He continued, “On the other hand, the best part of my job is greeting guests, welcoming them, and giving them great hospitality.” It’s working as Wanda’s was recently recognized by the Tillamook Coast Visitors Association with their annual hospitality award.
Frank and Patrick are active in the community as well. For his “day job,” Patrick is the art teacher at Neah-Kah-Nie Middle School, then checks in at the restaurant in the late afternoons. Frank oversees day-to-day operations as they also juggle family life with a 5th grader and a 10th grader. “We believe strongly in community service and being part of our community,” said Frank. “We didn’t want to be ‘faceless’ in the community.”
And they certainly do contribute as active members of the Riverbend Players Community Theater (Frank is president of the organization – shameless plug for their next production opening May 31st – “The Play That Goes Wrong” www.riverbendplayers.org ); he also serves as vice-chair on the Manzanita Planning Commission, and recently was a judge for the Emergency Volunteer Corps Cooking competition.
Wanda’s will host the next Level Up Tillamook Coffee & Connect on April 2nd at 8 am. Come by to see what the buzz is about, what business news is affecting small business owners, and more. www.edctc.com/levelup-tillamook
Wanda’s Café & Bakery, 12880 H St. (Hwy. 101), Nehalem
Open 7 days a week, 8 am to 2 pm
