Meet the Owner: Gus Khwice

Overlooking the Minnesota River, Dangerfield’s offers a unique setting for any meal. 

“We have built quite a reputation around our menu, and a picture perfect view certainly adds to our charm,” owner Gus Khwice said of his restaurant located at 1583 E. First Ave.

Khwice opened the restaurant 21 years ago, and has an extensive background in the restaurant business. Originally from Lebanon, Khwice came to Minnesota to attend Mankato State University and has since owned or operated restaurants in Montevideo, Hutchinson, Jordan and now Shakopee.

“I have been at this business a long time,” Khwice said. “I got into this business because I like making people happy and customers must be happy because Dangerfield’s has been my most successful venture yet.”

Dangerfield's is known for its fresh walleye, top-notch beef and a popular Sunday brunch.

“When it comes to our brunch, people come from all over the Twin Cities to check it out,” he said. “The crowds have really built over the years, mainly through word of mouth from other customers that come in and love the meal they get on Sunday.”

Despite the success of the restaurant, Khwice says he has felt the effects of the recession. Fewer people booked holiday parties at the restaurant and traffic has slowed a bit in recent years. To combat the sluggish time, Khwice partnered with Michael Orensteen to start bringing in comedians who do shows in the basement of the restaurant. It's known as the MinneHAHA Comedy Club, which Orensteen owns.

“About a year ago we decided to bring in local and national comedians and see if it was something the community would be interested in and sure enough, it’s been a success," Khwice said.

The restaurant offers a ticket to a comedy show and dinner beforehand for $29.  “It’s a great date night,” Anna Harth said. This loyal lunch customer has gone to several comedy nights at her favorite restaurant. “It’s nice to have a fun option like a comedy show that’s close to home and doesn’t cost a fortune."

The word seems to be out – both shows at the club on New Year's Eve featuring comedian Dennis Ross are sold out.

For Khwice, the comedy club is just another perk for his customers.

"I have 77 employees here and we are all committed to excellence," he said. "We hope the public continues to support a local spot like this."

This article contains a correction to reflect that Michael Orensteen owns the MinneHAHA Comedy Club. Patch regrets the error.