Top flapjack flipper keeps things hopping at Folsom IHOP

Robert Lewallen has been the manager of the International House of Pancakes, more commonly known as IHOP, on East Bidwell Street in Folsom for 13 years. He is usually seen serving hungry customers seeking their pancake fix. Tell us a little bit about yourself.I've been a cook for about 40 years now. I love people and I love to cook so I love what I do. I'm a people person and I especially like to cater to the seniors. I have five daughters, three granddaughters, and one grandson. What's something people may be surprised to learn about you?I am a French saucier. I worked under a French master during the early '80s for about two years. In the early '90s I owned a French restaurant in Nevada for three years. I've also done ice carvings. What is one of the most interesting experiences you've had working at IHOP?I love International Pancake Day. It's wild and crazy and the place is full all day. I also like the work that we do with the UC Davis Children's Hospital. What do you like most about your job?The people — meeting new friends and making people happy. I'm all about food, family and friends and IHOP is the perfect venue for that. I consider the guests that come in to be my family. Do you have any hobbies?I do woodwork and right now I'm building a toy box for my grandson. I have a little woodshop and I like to make things for my family and friends. Do you have a favorite movie?I like action and adventure movies. "Lord of the Rings" and the "Harry Potter" films are good. "The Matrix" is good. I like fantasy and animated pictures. I love "Up," it's a wonderful film. What type of music do you listen to?I listen to old rock and roll. I like Led Zeppelin, Molly Hatchet and Van Halen. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?I think I'd like to go to Australia, like go to the outback. I like how the people talk and I'd love to see the Great Barrier Reef.