Bellevue's hidden gem

Tucked among the Main Street storefronts in Bellevue is a gem of an eatery.The Green Emerald Family Restaurant and Pub is a comfortable, friendly place for families and friends to meet."It's cozy, fun and for everyone," said Cheryl McIntyre, the pub's co-owner. "It's family-friendly, but great for adults after a long work week to come and relax"Cheryl and her husband, John McIntyre, have owned The Green Emerald for about a year. They're located at the former digs of McClain's Restaurant, which operated in the city for about 125 years. The Green Emerald Family Restaurant and Pub WHERE: 137 E. Main St., Bellevue RESTAURANT HOURS: Closed Monday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday PUB HOURS: Closed Monday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Thursday 11 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday PHONE: 419-483-0999 John isn't getting much sleep these days. In addition to his long hours at the restaurant, he also operates Four County Tree Service, which offers plowing.But you'll get no complaints from him."The customers make it all worth it" John said. "It's a lot of fun"He and Cheryl and their three chefs enjoy talking to the guests who drop by for a drink or a bite to eat. There's seating for 90 people in two dining rooms. The menu was also recently expanded to include four new appetizers, five sandwiches and six dinner items.One of the new sandwiches, a bacon-wrapped, cheese-filled burger, has become a runaway favorite.Then there's the pub side of The Green Emerald.John and a few of his friends handcrafted the bar. Nearby, there's a DJ station in the corner, complete with a small dance floor. It's a readymade outfit for celebrations — the next of which is 7-11 p.m. Jan. 31, with Lance Horwedel and Steve Thompson taking the stage to grace dinner guests with some music and singing.The mics and dance floor should also come in handy when Green Emerald celebrates Valentine's Day at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 15. Guests can enjoy a prime rib special while The Harmonica Man provides music and entertainment."He's great. He gets everybody singing" Cheryl said.On March 15, the pub will feature Katie's Randy Cat, an Irish band.