Skipper’s Restaurant at 812 E. First St. is adding some new features to their outdoor caf??????©, including a Tiki bar built last month.

Owner Rick Scott purchased the lot adjacent to his restaurant in 2002, creating an inviting area for customers to enjoy their food and drinks outdoors. A wrought iron fence separates the caf??????© from the sidewalk. Umbrella-covered tables, flower beds and a fountain add to the ambience.

The new Tiki bar, with its authentic thatched roof, brings beer and wine service to patrons who prefer to enjoy the outdoor atmosphere.

“People are enjoying it,” Scott said. “This is a new atmosphere in town.”

With the improvements to the outdoor caf??????©, Scott is planning to expand hours and offer live entertainment. On Friday, July 23, Skipper’s will kick off the live music with accordionist Mike Geisler and concertinist Andrew Grawien.

Scott is also looking to add to the unique atmosphere with a menu emphasizing Chicago style hot dogs, beef sandwiches, gyros and munchies.

With the statewide smoking ban prohibiting smoking in all public buildings, Skippers will continue to provide a smoking section in the outdoor caf??????©.

In business since 1937, Skipper’s has long been famous for good, old-fashioned home cooking. Rick Scott has continued that tradition since buying the business in 2002. Skipper’s has been featured in the book Caf??????© Wisconsin.

Skipper’s is open 7 days a week, 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 8 a.m.-2 p.m. on Sundays. Starting July 23, Friday hours will be extended to 8 p.m.