New management has big plans for Shilo Inn

SPRUCEWOODS — A new management team officially took over operations of Shilo Inn last month — and already renovations are underway and plans are in the works to revamp the neighbourhood bar.

Jakshil Patel and his two brothers, Parth and Priyank, assumed management of the establishment around Sept. 8 after the owner, Alpesh Patel, retired.

The takeover marks the start of a new chapter for the more than 50-year-old business that has long served the community and nearby military base, co-manager Jakshil Patel told the Sun on Friday.

Though the brothers are new to Shilo, having relocated from Toronto only two months ago, they say they’ve quickly felt welcomed by residents and the military community.

“We got good support from the community, and they love us and we love them back,” Jakshil said. “We just want to keep up that legacy.”

The Patel brothers bring years of experience in the food industry, with Jakshil having managed multiple Subway franchises in Toronto and later working at Burger King in Prince Edward Island. Now, they’re applying that background to revitalize the Shilo Inn’s restaurant, bar and motel operations.

The family’s decision to take over the Shilo Inn, he said, was motivated not just by the opportunity to run a respected local establishment, but also by a desire to support the Canadian Armed Forces community stationed nearby.

“When we saw this place, one of my brothers pointed out that Shilo is home to one of Canada’s largest military bases,” he said. “That gave us a strong reason to take on this opportunity — to serve the people who serve our country 24-7.”

Since taking over, the management team has introduced some new items, including buttered chicken, which Jakshil said has become a customer favourite. They also offered a month-long free coffee promotion in September to draw in new guests and thank the community for its support.

Patel said customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

“After every meal, we ask our customers if they’re happy with the food. They always say yes — they’re pleased with the taste and the freshness,” he said.

Beyond menu updates, renovations are already taking place. One of the Patel brothers is overseeing exterior renovations, including new paint and general upgrades to the building’s appearance. The brothers are also focusing on cleanliness, hygiene and food safety, areas they take seriously given their background in franchise operations.

But perhaps the biggest change on the horizon is the planned transformation of the bar area into a modern sports bar — a first for Shilo.

“We’re trying to make it a place where people can come, watch sports and enjoy the evening,” Jakshil said. “The new concept will feature hockey, football and baseball viewing nights, as well as pool and dart tournaments, creating a more social and entertainment-driven environment for patrons.”

In the longer term, the team hopes to expand staffing — currently at five employees. They are also looking into hosting community fundraising events as part of their commitment to local engagement.

Stepping into a business with such a long history comes with both responsibility and pride, Jakshil said.

“This place is known all around the community. Many people have memories here — family dinners, celebrations, get-togethers. We want to honour that history while also bringing something fresh,” he said.

“We just ask people to come in, give us one chance — and we’ll never let them down with our quality.”

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