Daily Inspiration: Meet Jessica Jellison

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Jellison.

Hi Jessica, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for sharing your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers.
After working many years in the restaurant industry and loyal building clientele, I took a short time to raise my family. Shortly after that, I returned to work one night a week at a local bar, which happened to be on a Tuesday evening. During this time, my past and new customers began referring to me as “Jessica Tuesday.” The name was a natural fit when my dreams were recognized, and I could open my restaurant.

In early 2000, Putnam, CT, slowly began budding as a culinary hub, and I was intent on contributing to the emerging culinary scene. My journey started in 2003 when I purchased the historic Adams Express Building in Putnam, CT. This building is a perpetual reminder of the importance of the railroad and the town’s historical significance, as it once served as part of the town’s train station.

I opened a market /deli specializing in soups, salads, and sandwiches. My business continued to grow, expand and evolve into a destination eatery. Our customers rave over our award-winning food, service, atmosphere, and incredible cocktails. Everything that we create is made with the same amount of passion. Our signature plates are built with fresh and trendy ingredients driven by the market and season. We infuse liquor and create balanced and delicious cocktails, making us unique and separate from others in the industry. In addition to the charm of my restaurant, our majestic patio, with its outdoor bar, is where customers flock in the spring and summer. Every job is a self-portrait of the person who did it. I pride myself on hard work and what it takes being a sole owner for 19 years in the restaurant and bar business. Jessica Tuesday’s philosophy is “For a restaurant to be truly incredible, great food must complement great service.”

Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
No, I would have to perform every job for years while building a business to make ends meet. I would work countless hours to ensure all inventory, ordering, menus, cooking, and even dishes were complete before heading home. The pandemic was extremely difficult to survive, but I am proud to say we stayed open during all mandates and restrictions. We adapted and pivoted to the ever-changing provisions and policies, including “take out only.” Every business day was based on restrictions and what products we would receive from our markets and vendors. It was a challenge to reinvent ways of getting food to our customers. I created a daily take-out menu based on deliveries, fruit baskets, and selling our cocktails as “shake and takes” to stay afloat.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I enjoy creating delicious food and cocktails, but I love the art of presentation. My attention to detail and not cutting corners is what makes anything exceptional. I am most proud of being featured in Cooking Light magazine 2008.

How would we have described you growing up if we knew you were growing up?
I was the oldest child and have been told, the bossiest with a huge heart. I was never afraid to shoot for the stars, for I believe you never know how far you can go if you don’t take the risk. I always have and will continue to advocate strongly for those who need a hand up, knowing life isn’t always easy.

Contact Info:

• Website: JessicaTuesdays.com
• Instagram: Jessica_tuesdays
• Facebook: Jessica Tuesday’a
• Yelp: Jessica Tuesdays

Image Credits
Jamie Aubin [email protected] 860-933-4627