Shaina and Joe Papach are the husband-and-wife co-owners behind The Harvey House, a celebration of Wisconsin’s supper clubs and located behind Madison’s Historic Train Depot. With Joe in the kitchen and Shaina as the creative director, The Harvey House is a true family affair and a labor of love. Learn about Shaina and Joe Papach…
First job: Joe: Plumber with my dad when I was 5. Shaina: Barista at Whole Foods in high school.
Favorite ways to spend your free time in WI: Joe: With my family. Shaina: Exploring the food and beverage spots in small towns around Madison (with my family, of course).
Your biggest accomplishment and why: Joe: Opening up a family restaurant. Shaina: Managing family, the restaurant and life. Haven’t totally figured it out yet, but I’m working on it.
The biggest obstacle you overcame: Joe: Leaving my small town of Hammond, Indiana. Shaina: Sleep deprivation.
Someone who inspires you and why: Joe: Thomas Keller because of his constant pursuit of excellence. Shaina: My parents because of their literally undying support.
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: Joe: It is a long hard road with a lot of work and shortcuts will get you nowhere long term, but when you get there the reward is great. Shaina: Take all the risks!
Favorite quote: Joe: “You only miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take.” –Wayne Gretzky
Shaina: It changes depending on the day, but today “The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity.” –Amelia Earhart
Something someone would be surprised to learn about you: Joe: That I did gymnastics growing up, and I can land a perfect cartwheel. Shaina: I have three kids under 4 years old.
Photo credit: Nicole Franzen