01/18/2019
Story and photo by Gabrielle L. Wheeler
Maybe baby, I’ll have you
Maybe baby, you’ll be true
Maybe baby, I’ll have you for me (all for me)
Famous lyrics from the 1957 hit, “Maybe Baby,” by Buddy Holly. When rock and roll hit the country in the 50s, it was considered rebellious and wild. Today, I would consider the music a little naïve, but mostly fun and family friendly. Keeping the spirit of the 50s alive, Maybe Baby Burgers in Bath has been a family effort, in an effort to serve families.
“I wanted to create a restaurant where grandparents could bring their grandkids and both could have a great experience,” says owner Troy Goho. With a background in hospitality, when he decided to move on from 10 years specialized restaurant experience, he found himself overqualified for local work and his options were to either relocate or open his own business. Unwilling to leave the area because of his family ties, a friend convinced Goho to take the gamble and purchase a building in Bath which had seen a number of unsuccessful businesses pass through it over the years.
Goho describes how remodeling and designing Maybe Baby’s is the result of a family team effort, involving his parents, in-laws and his brother. Friends and family donated and helped him collect the memorabilia which is hung around the restaurant, giving off good-feel vibes and adding to the 50s atmosphere. Goho decorated the interior with the intention of letting customers laugh and have a good time. “The shoes on the ceiling are just fun!” he says, laughing. “But we’ve got Buddy Holly’s air guitar, and that’s just my sense of humor.”
Just finishing up its first year and being elected the winner of the 2018 Best of the Best of the Southern Tier as the people’s choice for best burger, Maybe Baby’s Burgers serves hand-patted burgers made only from fresh beef. Rolls are locally made and delivered three times a week. Goho says he choose Gifford’s ice cream because its high butter content produces the best milkshakes possible. A slim Coca-Cola cooler and open condiments bar give the feel of a 50s milkshake bar. Goho says his decision not to serve alcohol is intentional and keeps the establishment family-friendly. “You know, there’s nothing better than seeing a grandfather drinking a milkshake with his granddaughter and everyone enjoying it.”
I’d have to say that I agree, and that Maybe Baby, I’m hooked.
