Growing up, Scott Boucher lived a short walking distance from Maxwell’s Pub, located at 198 Main Street in Hudson Falls. The restaurant had been owned and operated by Pete Brown for eighteen years, and during the final years of Maxwell’s, Scott and Pete had several discussions about Scott taking on the next chapter.
“My family, like so many families in the community, loved Maxwell’s,” said Scott. “It was a regular part of our lives and I wanted to see our gathering space be there for years to come.”
In July 2019, the timing was right for Scott to take the leap, and a new era for the pub began. Scott changed the name to “Mullen’s Pub,” honoring his mother’s maiden name and Irish heritage.
Pub Eats
Mullen’s menu stayed similar to the pub-style food that Maxwell’s fans grew to love, and Scott even scored Maxwell’s beloved French onion soup recipe. But Mullen’s also evolved, adding a greater variety to their menu.
Scott prioritized purchasing high-end ingredients for their dishes, and quickly became known for having some of the best burgers, wings, and steak dinners in the area. Irish specials, seafood dinners and other home-cooked favorites are regularly featured. Additionally, the pub devoted whole menu sections to quesadillas (think unique combos like Reuben, Buffalo Chicken, and Philly Cheesesteak) and Irish-style sandwiches (like The Dublin– corned beef, pastrami, Irish cheddar, and stone-ground mustard on grilled rye).
It Takes a Village
Scott’s transition from pub patron to owner was largely based on the love of his hometown.
“I wanted to create a place where people of all ages feel comfortable and welcome,” said Scott. “It’s wonderful to see the same families return week after week.”
However, he admits he had a lot to learn as a restaurant owner. In the past, he had worked at Canoe Island Lodge in Diamond Point, having served breakfasts and barbecues for 200 guests at a time. He had also been a bartender.
“I had enough experience in the restaurant industry that I had an idea of what I was getting into,” said Scott. “I’m also not married and I don’t have kids,” he laughed. “So the pub became my wife and kids!”
Scott credits several instrumental people that helped him to launch Mullen’s Pub.
Prior to opening, family members and friends were quick to jump in to help Scott paint and reorganize the site.
Christina Richards, owner of farmacy in downtown Glens Falls, became a trusted resource helping Scott to navigate the intricacies of launching a restaurant. Scott’s sister-in-law, Amy Boucher, also had years of experience working in restaurants and served as an advisor.
With Scott’s family having long-standing roots in the Hudson Falls community, the initial support of Mullen‘s Pub was overwhelming, and in a good way.
The restaurant opened as the adjacent Strand Theater continued its growth. Led by favorite local musician, Jonathan Newell of Hudson River Music Productions, the theater’s music and community events brought numerous customers to the restaurant.
Another Hudson Falls business, McCann’s Pharmacy, was also quick to lend support. They purchased large sandwich orders from the pub, which in turn were offered as free lunches to children in the community.
“It’s amazing to have the support, particularly of families throughout Hudson Falls and Fort Edward,” said Scott. “But it’s also a lot of pressure. They love the pub as much as I do. I want to be sure to get it right.”
Marching On
Scott learned quickly that Mullen’s needed not just one, but two chefs.
Locally trained chef Laura Tennyson and Boston native Jason Davis share a rotating variety of dishes and specials such as modern takes on shepherd’s pie, pasta dinners, and desserts. Restaurant reviews also frequently cite the great service of the Mullen’s staff and chefs, all who enjoy friendly banter with customers.
However, the vibe of Mullen’s had no choice but to change in March 2020.
When COVID hit, Mullen’s never closed, and fortunately, takeout orders stayed steady. When 50% dining could resume, Scott planned accordingly, adding an outdoor seating area with large picnic umbrellas and space heaters.
Nevertheless, Scott knows that if dining can only remain at 50% capacity, the future remains uncertain. “Due to COVID, the industry is changing and we must change with it. What that future state of Mullen’s looks like I don’t know,” said Scott. “But I’m working on it.”
For now, Mullen’s popularity marches on as evidenced in their online reviews. Here is a sample:
“Good variety of on-tap beers with a menu that is not only tasty but constantly evolving as to the requests of the clientele.”
“Great sandwiches and fries. The soup was fabulous. Our first time in since change in owner, and thankfully it will remain one of our favorite restaurants.”
“Service was spot on, nice options, good sized entrees, friendly and accommodating!”
Support Mullen’s Pub, open Tuesday-Thursday noon to 9:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday noon to 10:00 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 8:00 p.m. Learn of the pub’s specials and other news on their Facebook page.
Special thanks to McCann’s Pharmacy for their support of this story.
Says Jason McCann, Pharmacist: “We are proud to support Mullen’s Pub in Hudson Falls. The restaurant is a great place to relax, get some great food and drinks, and usually see some friendly and familiar faces. I recommend the reuben quesadilla and the wings!”