SIDNEY — Residents have anxiously waited to learn about the new venue that would open after Brew Nation closed. The wait is over. Bruno’s held a soft opening this past weekend.

Mike Nuss and Phil Aselage are co-owners of Bruno’s, a coffee shop, restaurant and bar combination at 110 E. Poplar St. The pair have no prior restaurant experience, but they felt that the opportunity was too good to pass up. Nuss and Aslage have been friends for 30 years, but Bruno’s is their first joint business venture.

“We talked about it, and it seemed like a pretty good opportunity. It was something different. We took a leap. It’s pretty exciting,” said Nuss.

Nuss is currently a driver for Little Debbie but is hoping to work full-time with the restaurant once Bruno’s takes off.

Bruno’s is a tribute to a Nuss family name.

“It’s an old family name, and it sounded cool. It’s my dad’s middle name,” said Nuss.

A small crowd was invited for the opening. Nuss wanted to introduce people to the new restaurant and give the wait staff a chance to ease into things.

Nuss hopes being in the Murphy building and where Brew Nation was located will help the business take off.

“They (Brew Nation) were very popular, and it’s a very classy old building. I think all of that will help. We just want people to come in and enjoy a meal and conversation,” said Nuss.

As at traditional restaurants, wait staff will come to the table to take orders and bring food. Bruno’s offers wraps, sandwiches, paninis, calzones, salads and pizzas. Bruno’s also provides a full bar, appetizers, desserts, and a kid’s menu.

“I’m really excited. I think it will do great,” said waitress Justice Williams. “We want everyone to come and feel welcome.”

Nuss was happy with the evening, even though the weather kept very many people from attending.

Bruno’s will be open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Mondays through Thursdays and 11 a.m. to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Live music will be added in a couple of months.