Our Timeline
1969
Taco Time - Lewiston
1971
Taco Time - Pullman
1972
Taco Time - Moscow
1979
Taco Time - Clarkston
1982
Arby's - Lewiston
1984
Arby's - Moscow
1987
Zany Graze - Lewiston
1992
Tomato Bros. - Clarkston
1993
Arby's - Clarkston
1996
A&W - Moscow
1997
Arby's - Lewiston Orchards
2000
Main Street Grill - Lewiston
2004
Southway Pizzeria & Deli - Lewiston
History
The Happy Day recipe for success has always been a passion for food that inspires and motivates our employees.
The company grew out of Bruce and Joy Finch’s love of the Mexican food from Taco Time, which was the first restaurant they opened in 1969.
Bruce graduated from the University of Idaho with degrees in education and business, but had to rely on his wife, Joy, for any background in restaurants. Despite their lack of experience, Bruce’s father Charles believed in their idea and helped finance the opening of two more Taco Time restaurants.
In the late ’70s, Bruce was able to buy out his father and officially formed the Happy Day Corporation. The corporation was so named because Joy felt so positive about their venture. “We were so happy to have our businesses growing and thriving!”
By the late 1980s, the Finches had success with Taco Time and Arby’s chains and decided to try their hand at full-service dining. They opened Zany Graze, a family-friendly restaurant with an eclectic menu and a Hollywood diner feel.
Tobe Finch, Bruce and Joy’s son, continued the family tradition by taking over Happy Day Catering. With Tobe’s leadership, the catering side has expanded into its own location and now includes crisis catering and event rentals.
Now, Happy Day Corporation has 12 restaurants, as well as the catering and event rental business.
Bruce continues to be a hands-on operator. On any given day, you’ll see him in one of the restaurants teaching, training, or even busing the tables.
Happy Day Corporation continues to create environments and menus people can enjoy.
Corporate Office
1619 16th Avenue
Lewiston, Idaho 83501
208.743.0583
