The Story Of Eileen's Country Kitchen
Today, I had the chance to meet an extraordinary Irishwoman who does it all. Her name is Eileen Mannion Collum. She's 43, has two boys and three girls, takes them to church every Sunday, and runs a restaurant called "Eileen's Country Kitchen" in Yonkers. She also competes in the New York City Triathalon every year, learning how to swim, at 39 years of age.
She grew up in a small town in Galway, Ireland, and milked cows as a child. Her desire to come to America was realized in 1987 when there was a wave of emigration and her cousin sent her the money for a ticket. Since then, she says, she "never looked back." She said she realized the "opportunity to work," and says "the American people are really nice people - this neighborhood really supports us."
Her customers sing her praises, and say everything Eileen does - from serving up a big Irish breakfast all day long, to taking extra care with older patrons - makes her one-of-a-kind.
Her marriage is part romance, part business partnership. Married for 21 years, Eileen's husband (who's currently in Ireland visiting his mom) "buys the food, and (sic) she cooks it." Her regular customers come in daily around 10 am and give her support, "always say something nice," and appreciate her. At the end of the day, Eileen says "We work hard, but it's easy because we love what we do."
Written by Francesca Maxime
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Comments: 4
I can't say enough about Eileen and her famous establishment known as Eileen's Country Kitchen located at the crossroads of McLean Avenue, Westchester County, NY and Woodlawn in the Bronx, NY a/k/a little Ireland!
The food is fabulous, it is as cozy as any Irish home could be...so welcoming and very people friendly, as well as single and/or family oriented. Daily luncheon and dinner specials, delicious Irish raisin soda bread, brown bread and Irish scones a plenty. All the food is freshly made and so wholesome, nothing here artificial. Menu full of any choice of breakfast you could want; hearty lunch entries from soups; quiche; wraps; sandwiches; salads etc... to delicious dinner entrees of salmon; steak; seafood; chicken, vegetarian all served with sides of soup and/or salad, choice of several of the days fresh vegetables and any style potato, pasta, rice etc. There is usually a great tasting dinner of Italian, Asian, German etc..flair thown into the daily/nightly specials. You can top off your meal with a wonderous choice of desserts along with a lovely cup of tea and/or a great tasting cup of coffee topped off with half n half.
The staff are all gracious; friendly and welcoming and "the customer is always right" when in Eileen's. As I have etched into the minds of our two daughters who have been employed by Eileen.. Bridget from age 16 to 21 years of age and Deirdre, age 20 who still works there during college breaks and summer vacation, work hard, respect your boss and co-workers and most of all respect the customers and be efficient; kind, friendly and welcoming and give of yourself 110% when you are there.
Eileen runs a tight ship and expects excellence from herself, her wait staff and the food that she serves. Her rock is her husband Eugene who shares in the daily grind of their lives and helping oversee the "Kitchen" to being her soulmate. "The wind beneath my wings!"
A fine Irish lassie full of spunk, determination and love of life. A true role model for women of all ages and cultures and one of the smartest business gals that I know. Generous as generous can be. I've only know Eileen since she was a waitress herself some 20+ year ago! A dear, dear friend who deserves all the recognition
Such kind words from a hear friend of Eileen's - so glad you enjoyed the piece! Take care-Francesca
I used to live in Yonkers, and one of the things I now miss the most is eating at Eileen's. Her French toast is outstanding, and the service is exceptional! I think I will start making a trip down there just for the French toast! It is well worth it!
Congratulations Eileen, and best wishes for continued success!
Maria
Very good food ,very nice people