Basque culture and history run deep in parts of Nevada, especially in places like Gardnerville. A small town of about 6,000 residents, Gardnerville is the prominent home to a community of Basque settlers. Immigrant families such as the Lekumberrys of J.T. Basque Bar & Dining Room brought to America not only their knowledge of sheepherding and entrepreneurship but also their love of good food.
The history of J.T. Basque Bar & Dining Room is quite intriguing. The Victorian building that houses the restaurant was originally erected in a completely different city.
In 1896, Gardnerville businessman Hans Nelson bought and moved the building more than thirty miles from Virginia City to Gardnerville - not a small feat in those days!
For over 100 years, the site served as a hotel, dining hall, and saloon, catering to the residents of Gardnerville, Nevada.
In 1947, Jean Lekumberry immigrated from the Basque region of France. He worked as a sheepherder along with his brother. However, in 1960, the Lekumberry brothers and Jean’s wife purchased the building with dreams of starting their own restaurant.
Carson Valley ranchers and townspeople were served tasty home-cooking under the new ownership. The J.T. Basque Bar & Dining Room quickly established itself as an integral part of the larger community.
Hoping for some good luck? Try to stick a dollar bill to the ceiling, a tradition that was started by a regular patron long ago. All the money collected is donated to charity.
People travel from near and far for a taste of Basque cuisine. The lamb shank special is a must!
The initials J.T. were kept to pay respects to the previous families who owned and operated businesses out of the old Victorian building.
Come for the family-style American Basque meals and leave feeling satisfied. With loads of history, hospitality, and crazy good food and drinks to go around, J.T. Basque Bar and Dining Room is sure to be a timely treat for your taste buds.
For more information, visit J.T. Basque’s Bar and Dining Room’s website here.
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