Today we’d like to introduce you to Steve and Tina Nelson.
Steve and Tina, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Steve had a vision to one day open a restaurant. We had the opportunity to do this in an empty space in our Furniture Store strip mall. People and youngsters were longing for a fun place to eat and visit with the closing of another local restaurant 7 years ago this past July.
We wanted to come up with a menu that offered fresh yummy food. We met laid out our Business Plan and used our own money as banks aren’t too interested in investing in a restaurant especially when the economy was not at the greatest 7 years ago. People thought we were NUTS, but it has been such an enjoyable venture.
We started the process of remodeling, buying equipment, and meeting with the health department in May of 2010, and on July 22, 2010, we opened our doors minutes after our final inspection! Contractors that did work for us said they have NEVER seen a restaurant opening go so quickly! It usually takes a year or so. To say the least, we were motivated! We have critiqued our menu to satisfy everyone’s taste buds! We have had visitors from all over the world, and have become favorites of locals too!
Has it been a smooth road?
Our feet pretty much hit the ground running and we haven’t stopped. We have been lucky enough to have had great employees that have helped us grow every year. We have been very blessed in a business that most struggle in.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Being a local resident where our restaurant is has proven a plus. We know a lot of folks in the “neighborhood” and we were greeted with open arms!
We offer fresh 100% Angus beef, chicken, corn beef, pulled pork, fresh cut fries and lightly battered fresh onion rings. We have a Meatloaf Monday that has become an all-time favorite. Our homemade freshness has impressed so many folks! We put a lot of pride in what we put out on the tables!
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
I do believe we could make it in the city! We are approached all the time and asked WHEN will you open another restaurant here or there!
Contact Info:
- Address: 140 Bridge Street
Wilmington, ILL 60481 - Website: www.nellysonroute66.com
- Phone: 815-476-9590
- Email: tnelson0707@sbcglobal.net
- Facebook: Nelly’s Restaurant on Route 66
- Yelp: Nelly’s Restaurant on Route 66
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
