Duluth's Dawg destination

It might provide a sense of dejà vu for some patrons looking for a good bite to eat. Steverino's has brought a piece of the University of Georgia to downtown Duluth since opening earlier this year.

And co-owner Henry Harrington said it's provided quite the reunion spot for former Dawgs.

"People that had met in Athens 30 years ago are seeing each other for the first time since those days," he said with a smile. "It's really become an alumni connection."

Jim Cellini started the business in Athens in 1974 and still serves as a consultant for Harrington.

So why not name the place after Jim?

"He was a big fan of Steve Allen," Harrington said with a laugh. "That's the question I get all the time; people want to know if I'm Steve."

The restaurant serving pizzas and subs on Main Street in downtown Duluth is located in a historic building that has served as everything from a dry goods store to an office. Renovation of the 130-year-old building took some time, but it was well worth it, Harrington said.

"We had to remove several walls and the ceiling," he said of the walls now displaying the original brick. "But we are so glad we did."

The local lore of the building became apparent soon after opening the doors, Harrington said.

"I had one person say they had a photo of their grandfather taken decades ago in front of this building when it was a dry goods store," he said. "People are always coming in with stories."

Harrington said he loves working in downtown Duluth.

"There is a real sense of community here," he said. "Everyone has been very welcoming and we enjoy being downtown. People can walk in right off the Town Green when there's an event."

In the future, Harrington said he is hoping to continue to grow the catering side of the business, which is already experiencing growth.

But Harrington said he's really enjoying the increased interest in a Duluth night life.

"We don't want people to think Duluth closes down at 5 p.m.," he said.

"There are things to do downtown and that's only going to increase."
- www.gwinnettherald.com

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