This past Tuesday, HastingsNow.com had the pleasure of celebrating a truly special milestone—Lock & Dam Eatery's 10th Anniversary! Located in the heart of historic downtown Hastings, this beloved community hub has been serving up delicious food and unforgettable experiences since 2014. We were there to capture the love, laughter, and stories shared during this memorable evening, and to understand what has kept Hastings locals coming back for a decade. Spoiler alert: it's all about the people and the heart!

A Warm Welcome and A Celebration to Remember

On October 8th, Lock & Dam Eatery marked their 10th anniversary with a celebration full of all the best things—live music from Tiger Ries, complimentary appetizers in the bar, and an atmosphere that made everyone feel like family. The night was topped off with 10% off all food purchases (1% for each incredible year!). But more than that, it was a testament to how this local eatery has become a second home for so many in Hastings.

Jenn Melecio, co-owner of Lock & Dam, took a moment during the festivities to sit down with longtime customer Cheryl Burgmeier, who’s been a loyal guest since the very beginning. Cheryl opened up about what keeps her coming back: “It’s the owners, Jenn and Bernardo, they make you feel like family. I started coming here when it was Bella Vista, and from day one, I felt welcomed.” Cheryl’s favorite dish? The bang bang shrimp, beef frito with Tex-Mex sauce, and soups that she says are “always amazing.”

A Community That Cares

Cheryl also shared a touching memory—her post-cancer treatment party held at Lock & Dam. She recalled, “It was a surprise. I had no idea. I walked in, and there was a long table filled with 20 of my closest friends and family. It was incredibly emotional.” This was just one of many heartfelt moments that demonstrate the sense of community that Lock & Dam fosters.

This commitment to community is something many regulars have noticed. Cheryl highlighted how Lock & Dam offered free lunches for children during COVID, and affordable Thanksgiving turkey dinners—homemade right in the kitchen. “They do so much for Hastings,” Cheryl said. “It’s why the community loves them back.”

Hear It From the Regulars

We also caught up with Kathy and Dennis Wiech, who’ve been visiting since the Bella Vista days. What keeps them coming back? It’s the unbeatable combination of amazing food and a staff that makes you feel like you’re among friends. “Sam, she’s the best bartender and waitress there is,” Kathy shared with a smile. “Everyone here is so friendly, it’s unbelievable.” Dennis echoed this sentiment: “The food is awesome, but the staff really make this place what it is.”

Even Mayor Mary Fasbender stopped by to share her thoughts on Lock & Dam Eatery’s impact. “My husband and I come here almost every Thursday for date night,” she said. “It’s homey, and you always run into someone you know. It’s hard to come here if you’re looking to be alone—it’s a place full of friends.”

A Third Place for Hastings

For Jen Fox, Co-Owner of Spiral Brewery and a political candidate for Minnesota House District 41B, Lock & Dam is more than just a restaurant. “It’s a third place for Hastings,” Jen shared. “Jen and Bernardo have built a community space—a place outside of work and home that brings people together. We’re so lucky to have them here.”

Lock & Dam Eatery has indeed become an anchor for our community. It’s a spot where people gather, share stories, and support one another. Whether it’s a quiet weekday dinner, a family get-together, or a post-cancer celebration, Lock & Dam is there for every milestone, every moment.

To Ten More Years of Memories

As Cheryl said best, “To great friends, great food, and a great future.” Here’s to the next chapter for Lock & Dam Eatery—a Hastings institution that’s not just surviving but thriving, thanks to its dedication to the community. If you’ve never been, now’s the perfect time to visit, try some of the incredible dishes, and experience firsthand what makes Lock & Dam so special.

Stop by and say hello to Jenn, Bernardo, Samantha, and the rest of the amazing team. You’ll leave with a full stomach and a full heart.

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Visit Lock & Dam Eatery

• Address: 101 2nd Street East, Hastings, MN 55033

• Phone: (651) 319-0906

• Website: www.lockanddameatery.com

• Facebook: Lock & Dam Eatery

• Instagram: @lockanddameatery

Come celebrate the past, present, and future of this incredible local spot—because, at Lock & Dam, everyone is family.