Burns restaurant reopens
It's only been a couple of weeks and already the couple feels right at home at their restaurant.
Denise Ziegler and Jerry Waite of El Dorado have opened the Burns Buffalo Steak House.
"There are no memberships, no alcohol, just a family-friendly atmosphere," said Denise.
"We want everyone to feel welcome and comfortable at our restaurant," said Jerry.
The couple, who will marry Feb. 28, operates the restaurant. Jerry's father, Steve Waite, owns the building.
When the building became available, Steve Waite asked Denise if she would be interested in operating a restaurant. She jumped at the chance.
"This has been a dream of mine," said Denise. "I have always liked to cook and bake."
Denise has worked in food service for three and a half years and enjoys it.
The couple has devoted most of their time to the restaurant which opened Jan. 27. They also are remodeling a house in El Dorado in preparation for their marriage.
Between the two of them, they have five children — Maychen, 16, Gage, 11, Layne, 9, Jenae, 7, and Levi, 2.
In addition to the restaurant, the couple also offers catering in the Marion County area.
Denise and Jerry want their restaurant to be more than a place to eat. They are willing to take arts and crafts items on consignment. They also plan to have artists display their works.
"We want to support the Burns community," said Denise, "because they're supporting us."
Since its opening, business has been good.
"We think people are coming and trying it because it is a family atmosphere and there isn't any alcohol being served," said Denise.
She also is appreciative of her employees — four of them were employees of the former operators.
"I couldn't ask for a better crew," Denise said.
Denise does the cooking while Jerry greets customers and assists the wait staff.
"I take a great deal of pride in my cooking," Denise said, "and provide personal service. I'll come out and ask customers how the meal was."
"We try to give the customers what they want," said Jerry. "If it's not on the menu but we can make it, we'll do it for them."
Menu items include appetizers, steak, chicken, sandwiches, desserts, and a children's menu.
"We've received the most compliments on our steaks," said Jerry.
The meat is marinated, seasoned, and flame-broiled on a grill.
The building, more than 100 years old, is a centerpiece of the downtown area.
Steve Waite purchased it four years. A building next to the restaurant was torn down and a park was put in its place. The PRIDE Committee painted a mural on the restaurant's wall, and built a gazebo.
Before the Buffalo Gulch Ranchhouse, the building was the Double S Saloon.
Jerry envisions Burns being a destination and the restaurant serving food to classic car show participants.
A car enthusiast, Jerry is planning an event that would attract classic car clubs to Burns and the restaurant.
In spite of so many plans in the works, the couple stays focused on what's important.
"God is first, family second, and the rest falls in behind," said Denise.
Burns Buffalo Steak House is open from 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and features nightly specials. Beginning Monday, they'll be open daily for lunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and feature sandwiches.
Reservations aren't necessary but recommended for large groups. Call (620) 726-5715.
