“John called us and said ‘Hey, is there anything we can do to help you out,’’ Egan remembered. “That’s when I knew that banking with The Westchester Bank was different. There are not many CEOs from a bank that would make that phone call.”
The fire started in the restaurant’s kitchen, and caused nearly $20,000 worth of damage. After the fire, Egan donated $5,000 worth of food unspoiled in the fire to The Westchester Food Bank. The restaurant, which opened in February 2009, re-opened about a month after the fire. The Westchester Bank helped Emma’s Ale House and Egan get back to serving up its fare quickly.
“There’s not too many banks that would have done that,’’ said Egan, who named the restaurant after his family’s dog. “It told me a lot right then and there. It’s been a good partnership ever since we joined them.”
Egan, who has owned previous restaurants and also worked in advertising sales, said TWB’s responsiveness sets it apart from other banks with which he has had business dealings.
“John and his team have been very responsive any time we need them,’’ Egan said. “They always try to do the right thing. Big banks don’t offer the same responsiveness, and that’s important, especially in a situation like what we had with the fire.”
Emma’s Ale House has been voted a Best of Westchester winner for five straight years. At the height of the holiday season, the restaurant is expected to be packed this week. Egan, who has worked with TWB since the restaurant opened, feels comfortable knowing his business can count on The Westchester Bank to meet his business needs.
“Knowing that they are there is a big relief,’’ Egan said. “If something’s not right I feel I can always pick up the phone and call John. He always answers. He doesn’t always have the answer I’m looking for, but he always has an answer. I don’t think there is any other bank in the country where I could do that.”