Restaurateur opens new eatery in the old Slim's space

The restaurant features a full bar and entertainment space on the second floor of the space. (Courtesy photo/The Laughing Duck)

ROCHESTER - A new restaurant is joining the list of downtown Rochester eateries offering delivery and take-out options for customers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Laughing Duck opened their 45 N. Main St. location this week, offering classic American foods, like burgers and chicken wings, with a modern twist. Owner Kyle Billings said he's sourcing as much food as he can from local farms and purveyors in order to offer customers quality, delicious food at an affordable price.

The menu can be found on their Facebook page, and all orders can be placed by calling 603-403-8043. Discounts are being offered on some of the signature dishes for the time being and kid's meals (which come with chips, a drink and fresh fruit in addition to the main meal) are only $5 with the purchase of any regular menu item.

On March 16, Gov. Chris Sununu ordered that all restaurants in the state stop serving food and drink on-premises until further notice in an effort to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The order still allows restaurants to provide take-out service to patrons, however.

Along with the expansive food and drink options, Billings and his team will offer patrons a variety of live entertainment and events to participate in each week once the restaurant officially opens to the public. The upstairs portion of the restaurant has a stage for hosting live musicians, karaoke and comedians, as well as space for a full bar, dance floor and other activities like darts.

"As a long time supporter of downtown Rochester, I wanted to create a space where residents could come to enjoy a delicious, affordable, locally sourced meal and have some fun," Billings said. "We're looking forward to hopefully officially opening our doors to the public in the near future and hope residents will test out what we have to offer with our delivery and take out options in the meantime."

Work to open up the restaurant started late last year, with the final touches being put in place now. Billings said the restaurant will be ready to go once businesses are able to reopen to the public.

This isn't the first business Billings has opened in Rochester. Currently, he also owns and operates the LMK Trading Company, a collectibles and pawn shop located just up the road at 69 N. Main ST.

"Even during this unprecedented situation, it continues to be an exciting time during the redevelopment of the downtown area," City Manager Blaine Cox said. "Kyle is a strong supporter of the City and this new venture shows his commitment to helping Rochester grow."

Melissa Proulx writes stories for the City of Rochester