rachelh@myweeklysentinel.com
CANTON — For Kucklehead’s owners Amy Gegg and Mark Zimmerman, being part of the community is a priority.
The idea behind Knuckleheads came when Gegg’s grandson was diagnosed with cancer.
“Jaidan my grandson had cancer and was very, very sick. I’ve always wanted to be able to give to charities. We decided to not just help Jaidan, but we are also looking into helping, for example, CHOP,” said Gegg, who is always seeking individuals to help or ideas.
Jaidan took his last chemo last June and is now eight and doing well.
“We find the stories, we follow them, and we do what we can (to help) said Gegg.
Gegg says she wants to be able to hand a customer a receipt with about 4-5 non-profits on there so that the customer can choose where part of their bill proceeds will benefit.
“That’s why we’re different,” said Gegg, who says she wants to be a leader in events for the community.
“We also want to work with other restaurants/businesses and help promote them as well,” said Gegg. “Their customers are also ours.”
Gegg and Zimmerman packed their bags and left hometown Bird-in-Hand to travel north where a buddy had a hunting cabin. They fell in love with the area and decided to purchase their own home with 13 acres just outside of Canton in Ogdensburg.
In spring of 2020, they announced the opening of Knuckleheads and began working tirelessly on renovations to the building by themselves, and with the help of local contractors. Spring this year, they were able to open their doors and offer takeout to the community.
They have already seen much community support, from locals as well as those who are traveling through the area, to people who have driven hours just to come taste the menu at the take out window.
A newly-added aspect of the business is breakfast, which is available daily from 6-11 a.m., takeout. Recently, they unveiled a breakfast wrap that is filled with egg, onions, peppers, ham, provolone, sharp cheese and tomato. Sandwiches range from $4-6 or can include a small meal with tots and a beverage for $10.
Knuckleheads features a variety of menu items from cheese steak to subs, and they are always open to more ideas. Also on the menu are kids options, burgers made with local beef and fresh ingredients, loaded fries, nachos, mac and cheese and more.
A local favorite are the giant pretzels that they get in, with homemade mustard sauce and cheese. They are also well-known for their cheesesteaks.
“I decided to treat my employees to breakfast sandwiches from Knuckleheads. 21 sandwiches, ready on time, hot, fresh and absolutely delicious! When my employees saw them, their eyes opened wide and they said ‘That’s a sandwich? Where did you get those?’ Knuckleheads near Canton. The Troy Post Office gives Knuckleheads a big thumbs up. Make sure you stop in. You won’t be disappointed, but you better bring your appetite. Thanks Knuckleheads!” said Karen Rockwell in a recent review.
Other reviewers have called it a “sweet little cafe” and “great place” with “fresh cut fries” and “nice size portions.”
Gegg also has a very interactive online presence with the Knuckleheads Facebook page, posting every day about the beautiful landscape, the special for that week, or just to thank their patrons.
She has many plans for what she would like to see out of this new adventure, which includes improvements to the building as well as getting to know the area she is serving and participating in local events.
“We are working this in stages. Takeout first. We are calling it ‘operation takeout,’” said Gegg, who continued sharing her dreams of the future.
They are also working on their barbecue shack, which will feature barbecue menu items with tiki-themed decor for patrons to enjoy sitting outside and eating.
“We plan to have a server out there working the barbecue and will have seats,” said Gegg.
Eventually, the takeout portion of the building will be a coffee bar, when the rest of the dining portion is completed.
Knucklehead’s Cafe’s mission statement is “Brightening the lives of children and families one sandwich at a time,” which speaks volumes to what Gegg and Zimmerman are trying to accomplish with this new business venture.
One goal of Gegg’s is to be featured on Diners, Drive-in and Dives, a Food Network show with host Guy Fieri.
Knuckleheads is partnering with the Rialto Theatre for Girls Night Out on Thursday, Sept. 2.
To follow them on Facebook, go to www.facebook.com/knuckleheadscafe.
Knuckleheads is located at 1026 Springbrook Drive, Canton.