If you think about the words ‘fine dining’, a picturesque outdoor cafe in Europe might come to mind. The cobblestone streets paired with vibrant flora would make a beautiful atmosphere, and a fine meal prepared by a Parisian chef could only brighten the experience. Chef Dan McKenna, owner of Barking Dog Garden Patio, has brought that very experience here to Media!
In the restaurant business for almost 50 years, Dan’s continuous love and passion for cooking has never waned. He works to make sure his produce is fresh, his food is cooked to perfection, and that his customers enjoy the experience he provides.
“I get a great joy and pleasure out of preparing a meal that people really enjoy,” says Dan, “and I like it to be a unique experience.”
As Dan worked as a chef at It’s About Time Restaurant, the owner gave him the freedom to hire other chefs. Dan would hire people who were Parisian chefs working to obtain their green cards. In turn, he would learn what he calls “good, true French principles”.
While he loves to cook other types of food, such as Italian, Dan says, “I find the art of French cookery to be one of the finest aspects of culinary dining.”
The fine dining atmosphere Dan has created isn’t stuffy or strict. In fact, it’s quite open and welcoming as Dan refers to himself as a family man. At 14 years old, Dan started working in the restaurant business with his mother who was a waitress at the time. 49 years later, after a marriage and six children, Dan still butchers his own meat, prepares his own pasta and soups, and serves up wonderful meals for his customers.
He also loves animals and owns two dogs. This is why Barking Dog Garden Patio is dog-friendly.
“My wife works with me. My oldest son, Dan, also is experienced in the restaurant business ‘cause he grew up in my catering business,” Dan explains, “he does work with me occasionally.”
Dan’s grandson who is currently in college will also be helping this season, waiting tables.
Dan lives in West Chester and has been doing business in Media for over 30 years. He has made a space for himself in the community. He finds that even after all these years, his old customers still love his food and seek him out.
“Last year, I had somebody call me and say, ‘Is this Dan McKenna? The guy that used to have Time Catering and was the chef at It’s About Time? Oh my God, I can’t believe you’re back! You catered my sister’s 40th birthday party back in 1983’. Now, they’re a regular customer; they’re here 2 times a month, three times a month.”
Dan likes Media because he has a good foundation and a lot of regular clientele here. In fact, he shared that he has become friends with most of his customers.
“My customers are not just customers. They’re people that enjoy fine dining, they enjoy good food. And they become friends.”