Excelsior Springs celebrated a new chapter in its culinary history this Saturday, January 11, 2025, as The Springs Restaurant, 415 St Louis Ave., held a special ribbon-cutting ceremony in anticipation of its official opening later this week. Chuck and Sonja Duckworth, the proud owners, were surrounded by community leaders and enthusiastic locals, all eager to get a first look at the transformation of the beloved Mill Inn Restaurant, a local landmark that catered to the town’s appetite for over four decades.
The journey to this unveiling was not without its challenges. Initially slated for a fall debut, the opening of The Springs Restaurant faced several delays, testing the patience and perseverance of the Duckworths. Despite these obstacles, their determination has finally paid off. They will soon begin serving customers with a limited menu to ensure high-quality service during the anticipated rush of their opening.
The event drew the ‘who’s who’ of Excelsior Springs, from Mayor Mark Spohn to Chamber Director Brian Rice and Lyndsey Baxter, the director of the Downtown Excelsior Partnership, showcasing the town’s collective support for local business.
The highlight of the opening was the ribbon-cutting ceremony, where Sonja was joined by Evelyn Cowsert, the former owner of the Mill Inn, along with long-time manager Roberta O’Dell and dedicated employee Deborah Calloway. When selling the Mill Inn, Evelyn made it a condition that the new owners must preserve the family-friendly atmosphere cherished by the community. Committed to this legacy, the Duckworths are dedicated to maintaining the space as a hub for family gatherings, continuing to offer comforting American-style dishes for everyone to enjoy.
Guests at the open house were treated to a tour of the completely revamped establishment, featuring an impressive commercial kitchen and a stunning mural by local artist Jenna Olcott depicting the serene Regent Spring.
The renovations, expertly handled by 221 Construction from Kearney, MO, were comprehensive—stripping the building down to its studs and revitalizing it with meticulous attention to detail. The addition of a new fountain and an outdoor seating area promises a refreshing dining experience come spring.
As the Duckworths launch their culinary venture—pending just a license from the state—they look forward to serving up a taste of home. Their hours, starting at 7:00 am and closing at 8:00 pm, will offer everything from biscuits and gravy for early risers to hearty lunches and dinners featuring local favorites like Vic B’s Grilled Cheese.
For those in our community who have watched The Springs Restaurant transform from a concept to a vibrant reality, it represents more than just a place to dine; it’s sure to become a gathering spot where families, friends, and neighbors will connect and share in our rich local history. While you wait for the doors to open you can explore their menu at at eatatthesprings.com/limited-menu or connect with them on social media to get their latest updates.
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