By Jessica Coleman — Daily Staff Writer

FRONT ROYAL — The owners of one new restaurant in the downtown area hope to be a breath of fresh air in the community with their healthful dishes and relaxing atmosphere.

Shawn Patterson and Trevor Lipton, owners of the Lucky Star Lounge, on Main Street, have both been in the business for years, but said they wanted to try something fresh with their venture in Front Royal.

"We try to offer things that aren't available around here," Lipton said.

The menu consists of a variety of items, all of which are fresh, many of which are vegetarian and none of which are fried. There are also specials for lunch and dinner that rotate daily.

"People can come in every day and try something different," Lipton said.

Head chef Allan Kittle said there is always of variety of healthy, fresh food for customers to choose from.

"We like to play with the food a lot," he said.

Understanding what the customers like is always a good thing, as well, said sous-chef Richard Dabkowski.

"We come out as often as we can to talk to the customers," he said. "We love the feedback."

And one of the perks of the job, Patterson said, is trying everything these chefs cook up before the customers get their hands on it.

Lipton said his favorite dishes are the roast beef and brie and California veggie sandwiches.

"The best way to understand the food is to try it," he said. "You won't be disappointed."

The lounge also has a wide selection of top shelf liquor and imported wine and beer. A Sunday brunch and Bloody Mary bar allows customers to make their own drinks with a variety of mixes, sauces and garnishes.

But it's not all about the food and drink at Lucky Star Lounge. The atmosphere is a major component of its charm, Patterson added.

"The atmosphere is very relaxing," she said.

The restaurant has tables in the front sections, a large bar and some cozy couches for anyone who needs to take a load off. Lipton said he has seen people come in and fall asleep.

"You can come in on your own and feel comfortable," Lipton said. "The whole thing is about relaxation and comfortability."

Patterson's art decorates the walls, but she said she would like to encourage other local artists to exhibit their work in the lounge, as well.

The lounge is nonsmoking indoors, but has a patio outside for those who need to light up. Entertainment is also featured about three nights a week, with the intention of adding more later. Jazz is played on Saturdays; bluegrass on Sundays; and acoustic guitar sessions take place most Tuesday nights.

But don't get the idea that this is an average downtown bar, Patterson said.

"It's a friendly family atmosphere," she said.

"It's the place I've always wanted in Front Royal, but never had it to go to," added Patterson, who has lived in the town for about seven years.

The wait staff who work at the lounge also enjoy the laid back atmosphere. Lipton said they often fight over who has to go home first. Waitress Ashleigh Bohlanam called the scene "upbeat, but very Zen."

And if there is anything that makes a restaurant unique it is having a resident ghost, which the owners claim they do. According to Patterson and Lipton, in 1959 a woman was shot at the top of the stairs at the back of the restaurant. They are researching the history. They say that they believe her spirit resides in the building.

Things mysteriously move, the electric system has gone haywire and then there are those odd sensations.

"I've sat in that office sometimes, and I get a chill on the back of my neck," Lipton said, indicating the room at the top of the stairs.

The specter is a benevolent presence, however, Patterson said, and they believe she brings a good energy and a sense of history to the place.

"The good thing is she hasn't stolen any of my liquor yet," Lipton joked.

For more information call 635-5297.

*Contact Jessica Coleman at jcoleman@nvdaily.com.