Our Story

Built on Hard Work, Great Food & Great People

What began as a small neighborhood business has grown into a destination built on friendship, community, and a passion for bringing people together.

Scott and Melissa Dooley opened Knucklehead Pub in April of 2005, but their story started long before that. Prior to Knucklehead, they owned a small burger and custard stand called Dooley’s on 60th & Burnham in West Allis — formerly known as Iceburg. It was there they learned the value of creating a place where people could relax, enjoy great food, and feel at home.

As the years went on, their dream continued to grow. In 2009, they expanded by purchasing Coyote Canyon, now known as RustiX, and later added a Wisconsin State Fair location in 2014. Today, the businesses employ around 45 team members between the Eagle locations, along with nearly 40 additional employees during State Fair season.

But to Scott and Melissa, success has never just been about growth — it’s about people.

They believe the heart of any great business is the team behind it. From longtime employees to loyal customers who have become close friends, the relationships built over the years are what matter most. The laughs, late nights, celebrations, and memories shared inside their walls are what truly make the business special.

Scott, a proud West Allis native, and Melissa, originally from the small northern Wisconsin town of Park Falls, first met while bartending second jobs years ago. Since then, they’ve built not only successful businesses, but a life centered around family and community. Their son keeps them busy with football, wrestling, and baseball seasons, and family remains at the center of everything they do.

Over the years, Eagle has become more than just the place they do business — it has become home. The friendships, support, and sense of community they’ve found here mean the world to them, and they are incredibly proud to continue serving the people who have supported them from the very beginning.

Thank you for being part of our story.

Scott & Melissa Dooley