A Conversation with Marguerite Carlisle and Cathy Wilson, Owners, Original Pancake House
June 22, 2015
If you’ve ever been to the Original Pancake House in Columbia, SC’s Trenholm Plaza, you know what a landmark the restaurant is – and how delicious the food is. But, have you ever wondered about the people behind the pancakes?
MidlandsBiz sat down with co-owners (and sisters) of Original Pancake House, Marguerite Carlisle and Cathy Wilson, to learn more about the business partners behind those Dutch Babies and bacon pancakes, and to chat about the beloved gourmet breakfast food restaurant turning 25 on July 25, 2015.
MidlandsBiz:
Describe your restaurant, Original Pancake House.
Marguerite Carlisle:
We offer fresh, homemade breakfast foods as well as lunch and dinner items in a friendly, casual dining atmosphere.
MidlandsBiz:
What made you decide to go into business together?
Marguerite:
I was hoping to find the right combination of work and family.
Cathy Wilson:
The opportunity to work with my sister and build something of lasting value.
MidlandsBiz:
If you could share a stack of pancakes with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
Marguerite:
Les Highet and Erma Hueneke, the founders of the Original Pancake House. They passed away before we became involved, and from all reports, they were characters. They were also geniuses in putting together the recipes and cooking techniques for our menu, which have not changed since 1953.
Cathy:
Famed food critic James Beard. Beard grew up in Portland, Oregon and named Original Pancake House on his “Top Ten Best in America” list.
MidlandsBiz:
Original Pancake House is turning 25 on July 25th! What part of the 25th anniversary celebration are you most excited about?
Marguerite:
I hope to again see customers and employees who were with us when we first opened.
Cathy:
It will be a rare opportunity to step back from day-to-day operations and express gratitude to our loyal customers and friends for helping us along the way.
MidlandsBiz:
What does success mean to you, in one sentence?
Marguerite:
Being in business for 25 years!
Cathy:
To be proud of what you do and who you are.
MidlandsBiz:
Describe what you love about Original Pancake House in three words.
Marguerite:
Compliments from customers.
Cathy:
Seeing new customers!
