Jubilee Restaurant, a family‑run eatery in the small mountain community of Pocono Pines, Pennsylvania, experienced an unexpected guest on Saturday afternoon. A sizable black bear ambled onto the restaurant’s outdoor patio, paused at the host stand, and appeared to wait patiently for a table.
Unexpected Visitor
Patrons inside the dining room watched in amazement as the bear, described by staff as “big ol’” and seemingly unbothered by the surrounding activity, settled down on the patio floor. The animal did not display aggressive behavior; instead, it stood calmly, sniffing the air and occasionally glancing toward the restaurant’s entrance.
Staff Response
Restaurant manager Carla Mitchell said the staff quickly assessed the situation for safety. “We have a protocol for wildlife encounters,” she explained. “Our first priority is the safety of our guests and the animal. We kept a safe distance and called local wildlife officials to monitor the bear’s movements.”
While waiting for wildlife officials to arrive, the kitchen team decided to have a little fun with the situation. They prepared a special batch of pancakes, dubbing them “bear pancakes,” and placed them on a plate near the host stand as a light‑hearted tribute to their unusual patron.
Community Reaction
Local residents who witnessed the scene shared their reactions on social media, praising the restaurant’s calm handling of the encounter. “It was like watching a nature documentary right in our town,” posted one commenter. “Glad everyone stayed safe and the bear seemed fine.”
Animal control officers from the Pennsylvania Game Commission arrived within minutes. After a brief observation, they determined the bear was not exhibiting signs of distress or aggression and allowed it to leave the premises on its own. The bear trotted back toward the surrounding woods, disappearing into the forested area that borders the restaurant.
Safety Tips for Residents
Officials reminded the public that bears are common in the Pocono region, especially during late summer and early fall when they forage for food. They urged residents and business owners to secure trash, avoid leaving food outdoors, and keep a safe distance if they encounter wildlife. “Never attempt to feed or approach a bear,” a Game Commission spokesperson said. “Give the animal space and contact wildlife authorities if it appears to be habituated to human food sources.”
Looking Ahead
Jubilee Restaurant plans to keep its patio open, with added signage reminding guests to store food securely and to report any wildlife sightings to staff. The incident has sparked a renewed conversation in the community about coexisting with the region’s natural inhabitants while maintaining a safe environment for both residents and visitors.
For now, the bear’s brief visit has become a memorable story for the town, illustrating the unique blend of rural charm and wildlife that defines life in the Poconos.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
