Local Flavors: Gerard’s 1907 Tavern

Story by Amelia Bowen

For Boris Vignjevic, the path into the restaurant industry was built through experience, curiosity and a willingness to learn every part of the business. Since entering the industry in 2004, Boris has worked nearly every role imaginable, from serving and bartending to management and eventually ownership. His first concept, Entourage, opened in downtown Bowling Green in 2008 as an upscale lounge that quickly gained popularity. What began as a short-term venture grew into an eight-year success. As the industry evolved, so did his vision. In 2016, Boris transformed the concept entirely, reopening the space as Gerard’s 1907 Tavern, a more casual, community-driven dining experience. The name itself is rooted in local history. While reimagining the restaurant, he noticed the original name etched into the building, which dates back to 1907. The decision was immediate. Gerard’s felt like a natural fit, honoring the building’s history while complementing the welcoming feel of the space. The name still sparks conversation among guests. “People always ask if I’m Gerard,” Boris says. “Sometimes I tell them it’s my middle name.” Today, Gerard’s offers a menu that balances comfort and creativity, featuring everything from burgers and sandwiches to steak, pasta and seafood. “You can come in for a business meeting, a date night or with your family,” he explains. That versatility is part of what sets Gerard’s apart, but Boris is quick to point to another priority: consistency. “You can have the best ideas or the most expensive dishes, but if it’s not consistent, it doesn’t matter,” he says. One standout example is the signature Fig and Brie Burger, a combination of fig jam, brie, bacon and jalapeños that has become a customer favorite. Located in the heart of downtown Bowling Green, Gerard’s has become a gathering place shaped by relationships built over time, with many longtime customers continuing to return. More than a name on a historic building, Gerard’s is defined by the people who fill it, rooted in connection, familiarity and consistency.