Brief History
Born June 22, 1946
The Yum Yum Inn has enjoyed a reputation for fine food, since June 22, 1946. That was the day on which Dorothy and Vernon Schellhase opened the doors of their business establishment in the little old farm house, which was formerly the parsonage of David’s Church. This well known building, which had been visited many a time by John H. Patterson, had been remodeled in the previous months into a small and modest restaurant, designed to retain the home-like atmosphere of the average American family. It was truly considered a country restaurant, located one mile South of the Oakwood city Limits.
In 1947, a hand surface parking area was installed, covering only about one-half of the available land area. This paved area was increased from time to time, and will now accommodate 65 cars and 6 compacts.
Other improvements were made, all designed to increase our capacity for serving and to satisfy the demands of the waiting lines. Among such improvements were a new ventilating system in the kitchens, Zoned air-conditioning for the dining rooms, car service and carry-out service, facilities for private dinner parties, business meetings, wedding breakfasts and wedding receptions.
In 1950, an attractive new addition was opened to the public. This included a fine modern party shop, an up-to-date dishwashing department, new lounges for both ladies and gentlemen, a special private party room on the lower level (Terrace Room), two well appointed dining rooms on the main floor, giving us an increased capacity for 100 guests. At this time, it was conservatively estimated that a half million meals are served our guests each year.
In 1958, another remodeling program was completed. A new Colonial front entry and foyer was included and three beautiful Early American dining rooms on the upper level which was linked with the main floor by a circular staircase. This remodeling was planned during the widening of Far Hills Avenue to six lanes. In spite of the highway construction and remodeling discomforts (dust and plaster) business boomed. At this time, our personal stall was increased to 40 employees.
Distribution of supplies for preparation in the Kitchens and Bakeshop is made from walk-in freezers and coolers, which have temperature controls set to exacting standards. More than 2,750 pounds of jumbo shrimp, 4,500 lbs. of center cut halibut steaks, 70,000 lbs. of fine meats not county 5,600 lbs. of mouth-watering steaks, 28,000 lbs. of choice poultry, 3,000 lbs. of butter, 35,000 lbs. of fresh fruit and vegetables, 5,000 gallons of ice cream, and 125,00 lbs. of sparkling crushed ice, are among the items that contribute to the tasty, well-balanced meals which are carried into our dining rooms by our friendly and well trained waitresses.
In March 1959, The Yum Yum Inn was granted a liquor license by the State of Ohio and our first alcoholic beverage was served with great approval. Since that time the cocktail business has been increasing yearly, because of good quality control and recipes.
Any guest of the Yum Yum is invited to inspect our bright, clean, well ventilated, sound proofed kitchen at any time. The guest usually appreciates the gleaming white walls, the stainless steel equipment, the all-electric cooking battery, the ultramodern design dish pantry with the fully automatic dish machine which assures sanitation of the highest degree.
There are 46 electric motors humming a tune of service day and night, and more than 46 loyal employees who are eager and capable to serve you to your entire satisfaction at all times. Soft Music is piped into the dining areas to help relax the guest while dining.
March 22, 1959 started another service for the Yum Yum when we served our first alcoholic beverage from a new Service Bar in the kitchen area. This was accepted very readily and plans were formulated to incorporate a public Cocktail Lounge into the Restaurant.
After extensive planning and remodeling, The Fireside Lounge was opened on November 22, 1963 (the Day of President Kennedy’s assassination). It has been well liked by everyone and we feel it is a real asset to The Yum Yum.
We are still striving to give our guest delectable foods on our daily changing menus with the best possible service and atmosphere at a sensible price.
All of this could not have taken place without God’s help and we are very grateful for all he has bestowed upon us at the Yum Yum Inn!
On Sundays a small portable alter is set up in the Terrace Room for those employees who wish to meditate and pray in his own way. This is provided for employees who cannot attend Church and would like to start the new week properly by asking for Gods help and forgiveness.