GRANITE FALLS — Bluenose Gopher Public House has been awarded $50,000 from the Backing Historic Small Restaurants Grant Program, presented by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and American Express.
The program provides funding to 50 restaurants across the U.S., Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands this year, helping them renovate and expand their businesses.
Founded in 2013 and opened in 2019, Bluenose Gopher operates as a cooperative public house in downtown Granite Falls. The establishment, housed in a historic building, offers locally brewed beer, food, music, and community events.
“We are incredibly honored to receive this grant,” said Sarina Al Otaibi, Chair of Bluenose Gopher Public House’s Board of Directors. “This funding will allow us to make long-awaited improvements to the exterior of our historic building, including remodeling and rebuilding our outdoor deck and patio space, as well as updating signage to better welcome both longtime supporters and new visitors.”
National representatives said the program highlights the importance of preserving historic small restaurants.
“What began as a pandemic response five years ago has grown into a powerful movement to preserve the historical restaurants that shape our neighborhoods and connect generations through food,” said Madge Thomas, Head of Corporate Sustainability at American Express.
“These restaurants demonstrate the power that places hold. For generations, neighbors have gathered here, shared stories, made new connections, and enjoyed regional cuisine that often reflects our nation’s global roots,” said Carol Quillen, President and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
The grant program is part of American Express’s wider effort to support small businesses through initiatives such as Shop Small and Small Business Saturday, now in its 16th year.
