Today we’d like to introduce you to Brittany Chapin.
Hi Brittany, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My grandmother Carolyn McKinney bought the bar from the Koziaki family in 1987. When my grandma was younger she would come in as a customer with her friends and family. When the Koziaki family were ready to retire they sold the bar to my grandmother. They loved my grandma and asked her not to change anything and she did just that. The grill that we still use today to make our famous burgers on is from the 1904 worlds fair. The one we use today was made in 1910 when they were made for commercial use. There are 3 of these grills left in St. Louis and we own 2 of them. One is for spare parts. Our bar is a now 3rd generation family owned bar. My grandma passed away on September 27,2024 and now my mother Janice Gage and I, Brittany Chapin own the bar.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My grandparents bought the bar because it was a place where my grandmothers family would often gather. They adults would meet for drinks and my grandmother would meet her friends and go to the movie theater about two blocks away. The bar has consistently been a big part of the community. The two previous owners raised their family in the community and my family also lives in the community.
Just like most small businesses we have overcome several hardships. The pandemic has by far been the most challenging. There were periods of uncertainty as to whether we would be able to keep the business going. But that was not what really mattered at the time. What mattered most to my family was making sure that our employees were able to provide for their family. We made sure everyone was able to pay rent and feed their families. We also partnered with the church and opened our facility to provide cold storage for food they distributed each week to those in need. What truly mattered to us was making sure we did all that we could to help and support our friends and neighbors to overcome the many challenges they faced during the pandemic.
As you know, we’re big fans of Iowa Buffet, Inc.. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Iowa Buffet has been offering the best burgers in St. Louis for many years. It is a classic dive bar. We prepare our food and drinks with lots of love, laughter and sarcasm. The burgers are cooked on a cast iron, gas grill that was made in 1910. It is the most well seasoned cast iron grill that makes everything taste so good! Monday – Karaoke at 9
Tuesday- Trivia Night at 9
Wednesday – Live Music at 9
Thursday- Open Mic Night at 9
Saturday- BBQ at 12
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Make sure you enjoy what you do. The hospitality industry isn’t for everyone. You have to be firm and flexible. My best advice is to do everything you can to minimize your overhead cost. Overhead cost can easily become a financial burden. Talk to other business owners about their failures and successes. Know who your alderman is. Most people are happy to share lessons learned If your in the industry than you are a hard worker. Don;t forget to take the time to laugh with friends and enjoy life.
Pricing:
- Hank Burger $6.50 American Cheese, Grilled Onion, Pickles
- Chipotle Burger $8.00 Home made Chipotle Mayo, Bacon, PepperJack, grilled onions, and jalapeños
- The Duke of Iowa $8.00 Pub Cheese, Homemade Bourbon Bacon Jam & sweet chili sauce
- Chicken Wings $8.50
- BBQ Ribs $18, Pork Steak $14, Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken $12. Each plate comes with two sides and a dessert every Saturday
