John and Danielle Flicek won the grand prize for the Red Wing Restaurant Challenge earlier this year and promptly got to work — which will pay off next month when they open Staghead.

The contest, put on by Red Wing Downtown Mainstreet and Red Wing Port Authority, gave restaurant entrepreneurs the opportunity to present business plans for five historic downtown locations. The Fliceks’ winning proposal to reopen the Staghead will be coming to fruition soon, as they plan to open the doors in mid-December.

“It has been such a great opportunity to get into this beautiful space,” John Flicek said. “When we heard about the contest, Danielle and I knew this was exactly what we were looking for.”

The Fliceks moved to Red Wing this October from the Rochester area, where he had been the executive chef at ZZest Culinary Market. The two have strong backgrounds in the restaurant business, John in the kitchen and Danielle in the front house. With John being originally from Wabasha, the couple had enjoyed the Staghead when it was first open for business.

“It was a great space then, and we plan on continuing that old world, English pub type feel,” he said.

When the doors reopen, the Staghead will be known as a gastropub.

“A gastropub is a pub that focuses on high-quality food and drink,” he explained. “I like to let the ingredients in my dishes shine. Our menu will be classic and contemporary.” John will assume the role of executive chef, with Danielle managing the front of the house. They plan on having a staff of 15-20 employees.

“We have hired most of the front of house staff,” he said.

“Our mission statement to our customers is to provide hand-crafted, locally sourced meals and a unique list of craft beers,” Danielle said, “and to ensure that each guest is given professional and friendly service, and are treated with respect and dignity.”

The Staghead Gastropub will be opening in mid-December, providing cuisine and craft beer in a classic location in the heart of downtown Red Wing.

“The space really speaks for itself,” John added. “We think customers will have a great experience here.”

The details…

What: Staghead Gastropub

Where: 219 Bush St.

When: Mid-December

Website: www.facebook.com/thestaghead

—Samantha Bengs, Republican Eagle Reporter