HOULTON, Maine — A favorite downtown restaurant that closed in 2017 will once again open its doors under new ownership.
Town councilors on Monday evening approved a victualer’s license for David and Kristen Wells, who will be doing business as The Vault Restaurant at 64 Main St. The restaurant will open at the same location it did under the previous two owners, according to municipal documents.
Ralph and Miriam Zuriak originally opened The Vault in 2005 in the former Farmer’s National Bank. The original bank vault is still in the restaurant, as is a second vault in the basement and a third vault, which serves as a 1-bedroom apartment above the restaurant. Since 1927, the location served as a jewelry store, lawyer’s office and the Harvey Insurance Company.
Rob Lawless and Kathryn Harnish officially took over operation of the restaurant in 2016, but it closed a year later.
Councilors were thrilled to hear of the Wells’ plans on Monday evening.
“I think this is great,” said Councilor Chris Robinson.
“This is wonderful,” said Chairman Jane Torres.
David Wells said that the couple was “really excited” about their future in the restaurant.
“This was our favorite restaurant,” he said. “We are really excited to bring the restaurant back to the glory days that we remember when we first came to town. We loved the place and we loved the menu. We want to put our own spin on it at the same time.”
David said that he was going to handle the cooking while Kristin handled the front of the house. They did not discuss an opening date during the meeting.
