Van's Cafe, Brainerd, Minnesota - 1941 Remodeling

Van's Cafe near the water tower of Brainerd, at the junction of the State Trunk Highways 210 and 371, known the world over for its good food has been completely remodeled and modernized at a cost of $10,000 for the "health, comfort and pleasure" of his(sic) patrons.

Conveniently situated at the corner of Sixth and Washington Streets Van's Cafe is now one of the most beautiful and comfortable restaurants in the entire Brainerd area. Its clientele includes business professionals and working people of the Brainerd area and people and tourists of all states. It is a favorite meeting place of the Civic Association and the Junior Chamber of Commerce of Brainerd, YMCA pep meetings, the Salvation Army campaigns, Plumbers organization, Dentists, the start of the aluminum drive etc.

The walls and ceilings of the cafe combine soft peach color, set off by the two toned bleached walnut wood finish and the soft blue and white sky appearance which is used in arches above the flourescent(sic) lights in the ceiling.

Soft cushioned booths numbering 17 are placed around the main room in addition to the four tables. Eight are two-person booths, eight are made to serve four and one is a large party booth. There is also a small dining room for private parties and a larger banquet room which can care for more than 40 persons. All booths are of maple natural wood with soft cushion seats and backs. Table tops are of soft blue and the inlaid linoleum floor has zigzag patterns and mottled hue.

Pillars are mirrored. Arches at the ceiling are colored to give the effect of a summery sky with white clouds. Indirect flourescent(sic) lighting is used. The banquet room has eight tables and the walls are beatifully painted in soft muraled tints. The six large windows are provided with venetian blinds. Indirect flourescent(sic) lighting is effective in evenings.

The counter has been removed from the center of the room to the west wall and has room for 11 patrons on cushioned stools. Modern lunch and fountain equipment has been installed. There is a new soda fountain, a large five compartment freezer, electric beverage cooler, two large coffee makers.

Chilled air keeps Van's famous steaks in readiness. Ready to be had sizzling hot and cooked to perfection to suit the most exacting taste. The beverages are cooled to the proper temperature. Constant attention to multitudinous details is what buids(sic) up the reputation of Van's Cafe.

In speaking of the tourist trade, Mr Van Essen said there were more people vacationing in the Brainerd Lake Region than in any previous year. People have come to the philosophical conclusion that if they wish to wait until the world is again in a settled state, it may take years before this condition is ever reached. It is better to vacation annually, regain health and nerves and no place is more suited that the Brainerd Area and no restaurant is better equipped and air conditioned than Van's Cafe to provide that necessary service for the inner man.