Cardinal Tavern owner Larry Rohleder Jr. says Canton has responded well to his corner bar since its December 2011 opening.

But, Rohleder said, customers weren't completely satisfied. "People kept telling us, 'I love this place, but you gotta serve food'," he said.

Soon, they'll be getting it. Rohleder said that Cardinal Tavern will add a dining room and small bar on its currently unused second floor. The tavern is working on its menu design and concept with a restaurant consultant, Rohleder said.

Review: Off the Square, Cardinal Tavern is Canton's best, unassuming corner bar

The working theme is "funky comfort," Rohleder said. "It's going to be Southern-inspired with some fun twists."

Rohleder said he plans to have the dining room open in early 2014.