Written by Bryanna Hampton.
After two months of renovations, planning and getting the place put back together, new owners of the Eleven-Mile House restaurant in Kirkwood are hoping to reopen the place soon.
While Patch interviewed owners Elaine and Greg Caldwell about the changes, nearly a dozen potential customers stopped by planning on getting a bite to eat.
"This happens all the time," Greg told Patch.
Those potential customers can come back soon, according to the Caldwells, who are hoping to clear inspection rounds and open late this week at 10332 Manchester Road.
Elaine, Greg, and their son, Matthew, have been regulars at Eleven-Mile House for 28 years -- well, Matthew for his 8 1/2 years of age. After negotiating with the previous owner, Frank Soltysiak, who the Caldwells said was looking to retire, the family bought the restaurant April 29.
"We're keeping some favorites and opening up the specials for new food," Greg said. "We really want to stick to the local vibe and add some vegetarian and lighter fare options."
With a menu full of sandwiches, burgers, steaks and other classic entrees, Eleven-Mile's new owners have added more local beer options.
Along with menu updates and changes, the kitchen, bar and dining area have also received "necessary" facelifts to meet new standards. The restaurant has been in the same facility since 1977, and the Caldwells said they hired some "good help" from local contractors to bring its function and atmosphere up to speed.
"We see this place as a living entity we want to take care of," Elaine told Patch.
Several new appliances, cleaning projects, paint jobs and rearranging later, the Caldwells said they're looking forward to reopening for service to introduce themselves and learn names.
Greg also said "a good portion" of previous staff members will be returning.
The Eleven-Mile House will be open 11 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. Friday and Saturday, and 7 a.m. to midnight Sunday.
Check back in with Patch for updates on the opening date.
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