New On Tap Owner Focusing on Improving Service, Food (Wings Staying the Same)

Don't worry ... the new owners aren't changing the wings or sauces at . In fact, plans are now in the works to bottle and sell the sauces.

But, some changes have already taken place at the 10,000-square-foot restaurant and bar. 

Mike Simms, 48, and his wife Diane have owned the restaurant since Feb. 13 and since then the focus has been on making the service better and enhancing the quality and types of food offered.

"We're trying to do some upgrading with the food," said Simms, a graduate. "We're going to try some new wing sauces, new pizzas and sandwiches ... stuff like that."

But more importantly than a few new menu items, Simms said patrons will notice a difference in service. 

"I don't think it was always very attentive," he said. "My whole philosophy is that if you treat the employees well and take care of the staff [of about 45-50], they will take care of the customers the same way."

Simms also said he leads by example. Although his title may be owner, you'll see him busing tables, greeting patrons and cooking food. 

"I think people will think, 'That guy is doing whatever it takes to make this place busy and successful," he said. 

Before taking ownership of On Tap, Simms was a controller for the North Hampton Restaurant Group that oversaw the operations at the restaurant. And, while in college at the University of Akron, Simms was involved in the food business. 

"I worked my way through college at A & W," he said. "When I was just out of college a friend and I talked about owning a place, but it never happened ... owning this restaurant has been a dream come true for me."

Besides some food changes, better service and a new owner, it's still business as usual at On Tap. 

The restaurant still boasts happy hours, Karaoke nights, a patio with a fire pit, sandpit with cornhole boards and lunch specials. Oh, and don't forget about the free popcorn — that's sticking around too. 

"It's still going to feel the same for the regulars who have been coming here for years," said Simms. "It's the place where fun times happen."

For more information, visit the restaurant's Facebook page.