Build your own breakfast at Granny s Little Grill, Tampa
By ROWENA PLETT
Staff writer
The former Butch's Diner in Tampa, closed for a while, has reopened as Granny's Little Grill.
Phyllis Branson of Tampa is the new operator. She offered free cinnamon rolls and coffee March 1, her opening day.
Formerly a robotics welder operator at AgCo in Hesston, Branson's brief experience in food preparation came as a cook at Sonic in Hillsboro and at Whistle Stop in Walton.
"I've never done anything like this before," she said about operating her own business. "When I knew the café was available, I toyed with the idea for a while."
Open weekdays and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., the eatery offers a "build your own breakfast" menu from a list of meats, breads, eggs, and cereal, as well as children's waffle stix.
Sandwiches and dinners are available from noon until closing. Dinners include a salad bar, potatoes and gravy, or french fries. Dinner specials are offered every day.
The grill is open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sundays.
Todd Clement of Tampa is a full-time employee serving as Branson's "main man." She said he does whatever needs doing.
Her daughter Jennifer Beck of rural Marion and Theresa Kimes of Hope are daytime waitresses. After school and weekends, Centre High School students Amy Hajek, Gloria Belton, Chelsey Tajchman, and Jessica Deines serve tables.
Located on Tampa's Main Street, the building housing Granny's Little Grill was the original Tampa State Bank, established in 1901. The former bank vault now serves as a supply room.
Phyllis Mueller owns the facility. It was operated off and on for many years as Butch's Diner. Branson said Mueller has kept the diner in excellent condition, enabling her to move in and begin operating in short order.
Branson has lived in the area 23 years. Daughter Jennifer has three daughters: Daniella, 9; Shania, 7; and Payton, 3 1/2 weeks. Son James Thornhill is employed by Jantz Construction, Durham.
"I enjoy being a grandmother," Branson said. "That's why I named my business Granny's Little Grill."
