By Jacob Mathias

A popular Friday fish fry destination is on the market.

The Water Street Grille, actually located on Third St. but just around the corner from Water St., has served customers for the past 14 years with its popular fish fry and Asian Fusion dishes. Owner Wen Cheng opened her downtown restaurant in 2003 and says it’s time to retire.

“I really want to retire. I want to spend more time with my kids,” said Cheng. “That’s the most important thing for me.”

Cheng has worked in the restaurant business her entire life. Prior to opening Water Street, she owned and operated the Hunan Chinese Restaurant from 1984 to 2002 at locations on Post Rd. in Plover near the Sky Club, in what is now the Olympia Family Restaurant on Division St. in Stevens Point.

Cheng said she’ll miss meeting new people and talking with her customers.

“They always tell you something you’ve never heard before,” she said.

She will not miss the long hours and time away from family. She used to work seven days a week before she decided to close the restaurant on Sundays.

Once she sells the restaurant, she is going to spend more time with her family and hopes to teach her children about their traditional Chinese holidays, cooking and culture. She is also thinking of getting a part-time job and working for charity.

“I’ve still got a little bit of energy but not that much energy for working full-time” said Cheng.

The restaurant is listed at $275,000 through RE/MAX agent Jim Buck. The sale includes the land, building, signage, all fixtures, all furniture, all equipment, liquor license, business name and recipes if wanted.

The Water Street Grille is located at 1410 3rd St. in Stevens Point. They are open from 11 AM to 9 PM Monday through Saturday.