Linda Lin, the owner and operator of Hopkin’s Dining Parlour can often be seen greeting guests at the door by name and seating them in their usual spots. They talk about the weather, how they’re feeling that day and lately they’ve been chatting about the upcoming anniversary of the establishment.
It promises to be a worthwhile event, kicking off at 4pm and going until close. There will be special appetizers for $15 and Hopkin’s Hard Lemonade for $8.
Like any haunted place, Hopkins is bigger than it looks. Many people are surprised to find out that there are actually five floors in the building. This includes spacious private rooms usually reserved for free by large groups. This layout gives the Hopkins anniversary event the opportunity for a multi-level shindig with two of their house bands playing live music on different floors at the same time. If you’ve never strayed from your table while dining at Hopkin’s, this is your chance to explore the building in a friendly setting perfect for socializing with old and new friends.
It’s also a point of interest to peruse the decor of the building. Interiorly designed in the Victorian style, it is full of paintings, furniture and antiques, some older than Issac Newton. The pride and joy of the establishment is their 100-year-old player piano. Linda points out, “This is a must-see place in Moose Jaw. This is not just a restaurant; it’s like a hidden museum.”
When asked to describe the purpose of the event in one word, Linda said, “Memories.” She gestured around the room. “These ladies ate here as children. They come back because of the memories.”
Linda looks forward to seeing not only the regular customers but former staff members. It’s a business with a great reputation for workplace satisfaction. Linda comments on this, saying, “One server has worked here for over ten years, another eight years. It’s a big family here. It’s not just a franchise and the customers can feel that.”
To her, running the business isn’t just about the money. “It is like a cozy home. I am so proud to be working here.”
It was run this way for forty-one years by the previous owner, Gladys Pierce, and Linda carries that torch with honour.
This year’s celebration is bittersweet, as it approaches not long after Gladys Pierce’s passing. Five years ago, when Gladys handed the reins of Hopkins over to Linda, she never failed to show up for the anniversary celebrations held each year. She visited with patrons, some of whom have been regulars for over twenty years and marveled at the collection of customers who truly felt like family. Linda believes, in Gladys’ own way, she will still be at the event. “I’m sure she will be looking down on us from heaven. We’re going to make her proud.”
