The Childs Family
The story of The Black Goose Grill is the story of the Childs family. For over fifty years, we have been serving the Wallaceburg community with pride, passion, and a whole lot of love. Our family's journey in the restaurant business began long before we opened our doors on James Street.
This is our story. A story of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to serving comfort food the way it was meant to be made. We invite you to learn more about the family behind the Goose.
Our Family History
Primrose Gardens (1969)
Our family's journey began in 1969 at the Primrose Gardens. What started as a dance hall in the 1950s grew into an event center that focused primarily on bingo. The family added a snack bar called Fran's Catering, named after the family matriarch, Francis Childs. This was the humble beginning of a legacy that would span generations.
The Oaks Inn (1984 - 2012)
Gordon Childs, the family patriarch, grew the business substantially, leading to a significant deal that saw the Childs Family purchase the Oaks Inn. For nearly thirty years, from 1984 until 2012, the Oaks Inn was a beloved Wallaceburg institution. The family learned the ins and outs of the restaurant business, building relationships and earning the trust of the community.
The Black Goose Grill (2012 - Present)
Mark Childs, along with his wife Deb and his sons Josh and Jake, opened the Black Goose Grill in January of 2012 after leaving the Oaks Inn. They brought decades of experience and a commitment to quality comfort food. The Goose has become a beloved part of the Wallaceburg community, known for its generous portions, reasonable prices, and warm atmosphere.
The Childs Family
Mark Childs
Owner & Operator
Mark is the heart and soul of The Black Goose Grill. With decades of experience in the restaurant industry, he brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to quality. He can often be found in the kitchen, ensuring every dish meets his high standards.
Deb Childs
Owner & Manager
Deb is the backbone of the Goose. She manages the front of house, ensuring every guest feels welcome and well taken care of. Her attention to detail and warm personality have made her a favourite among regulars.
Josh Childs
Owner & Head Cook
Josh is a third generation restaurant guy who grew up in the family business. He works alongside his brother Jake to ensure the kitchen runs smoothly. Josh is known for his skill on the line and his commitment to consistency and quality.
Jake Childs
Owner
Jake grew up in the restaurant business alongside his brother. He is involved in most business decisions and brings a fresh perspective to the family legacy. When he is not at the Goose, he is pursuing his other passions, but his heart is always with the family.
Our Family Values
Family First
The Black Goose Grill is a family business through and through. We treat our staff like family and our customers like extended family. We believe that the warmth and love we put into our food comes through in every meal we serve.
Quality Ingredients
We believe in using the freshest ingredients available. Our food is made from scratch daily, and we never cut corners. From our famous Broasted Chicken to our slow-roasted beef, quality is our top priority.
Community
We are proud to be part of the Wallaceburg community. We support local initiatives, sponsor sports teams, and donate to fundraising events. Giving back is not just something we do, it is who we are.
Consistency
We believe that consistency is one of the most important elements of food service. When you order a meal at the Goose, you can expect the same high quality every time. That is our promise to you.
A Legacy of Service
For over fifty years, the Childs family has been serving the Wallaceburg community. From Primrose Gardens to the Oaks Inn to The Black Goose Grill, our commitment to quality and service has never wavered. We are proud of our heritage and excited for the future.
We look forward to serving you for many more years to come.