Aaron Straub, a co owner of Muse Bar + Bistro and Founder of The Straub Family Foundation proudly announced the Grand Opening of Muse Bar + Bistro! on Saturday, September 24. The newest restaurant is located at 2385 S. Hwy 27, previously “World of Beers”. The restaurant has been remodeled, with a new “Pay It Forward” concept.
THE MUSE BAR + BISTRO VIDEO
Last Tuesday, I met with Aaron to find out more about the restaurant and the Foundation.
Tablet: Everyone is excited about the newest restaurant in Clermont and itS charity concept.
Aaron: We are currently in the process of opening this unique restaurant/charity concept. We have been awed and strengthened by all the support from the public, our vendor partners, as well as the amazing Team we are gathering to assist in our mission. Our first goal is to offer truly outstanding food, wines, and service. With Chef Bob’s stunning menu and our culinary team using the best foods and ingredients sourced locally, and worldwide, it has been wonderful seeing these dishes and vision take shape.
South Lake Tablet: Tell me about the Straub Family Foundation
Aaron: In 1986 my family moved to the Central Florida area. When I was a young adult, I put on a backpack and hiked across Europe enjoying the journey. I stayed in Europe for years, working in the Hospitality Industry. The Netherland had an interesting concept, “Pay it Forward”, where a cup of coffee, was paid forward with a cup of coffee. The concept inspired me and evolved into my vision, and my vision into a concept and now, reality is close at hand.
South Lake Tablet: Describe your vision/ concept and how it works
We have three charitable efforts: We will be offering vocational spaces for those wishing to enter the Hospitality Industry. These Trainees will come from a variety of backgrounds. Our two initial Trainees come to us from two places. One is a rescued traffic victim who has spent some time in a halfway house and is now ready to engage in training for a future in the workplace. The second is an Adult with a high-functioning mental disability. Both have been engaged through the Charities that have supported them.
Community Days will be held each Monday. Those who are food insecure in the community can come and enjoy a meal free of charge, and those that wish to support our goals can lend their time, resources, or skills to help.
TABLET: Aren’t you concerned about people taking advantage of a free meal at a nice restaurant?
Aaron: With the vision comes a belief in people. Sure there will be those who take advantage of Community Days but I believe most who take advantage will do what they can to help and pay it forward. All our vendors are pleased to help support the project.
Tablet: Describe the Team
Aaron – Chef Bob and I have a combined 70 years in the Hospitality Industry. Both of us and the rest of the team are committed to offering all the staff strong wages, and benefits such as complimentary life insurance, and matching 401k, beyond Health, Dental, and Vision offerings.
The Rest of the Administrative Team:
Thank you Aaron for a wonderful interview and your passion to help the community.
To see the menu and learn more, visit their website www.musebarbistro.com
