Off the eaten path spotlights different resturants near campus. It aims togive students more options for where to go to find good food.
Jesse Hofford
– Opinions Editor –
Seems like all these big name restaurants are squeezing out the little guys nowadays. Although Spencer’s Grill is one place that hasn’t been squeezed out but in fact has been around for a solid 70 years. Established in 1941 and located at 223 Kirkwood Rd. in Kirkwood, Mo., they have been grilling since Franklin D. Roosevelt was in office.
When you walk in the door you’ll immediately notice how aged and run-down the interior seems to be. Before you turn around and walk out keep in mind this place is old, so the discolored floor and holes in the wall come with the age and are what give this place its character. Seating consists of a bar, booths and small dining area in the rear. Hours are 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. everyday so this is a breakfast and lunch kind of place, which is good because they serve both all day long.
Now on to the food. Service is quick, friendly and one can even watch their order being made if they choose to sit at the bar. Prices on the menu range from under a dollar for a cup of tea to over seven for some of their larger meals. The prices werea bit high but that may not be much of an issue for some. Their menu is packed with diner favorites like omelets, hot sandwiches, breakfast platters and the ubiquitous hamburger. Their grilled chicken sandwich was a bit lacking in flavor for my taste but that’s just me. The fries are thick and crispy but seemed kind of dry, however toppings on the sandwich were fresh and delicious.
The grilled chicken sandwich should be ordered with all the veggies on it, they add some nice texture. The bacon double cheeseburger is a great choice as well. Another thing you’ll notice is their drinks are big. They are much bigger than most restaurants in their class. Refills will be rare if needed at all.
Over all, Spencer’s Grill offers satisfying diner fare in an environment that some may not particularly like but most certainly has character. Their food is fresh, cooked to order and they have plenty of experience under their belt. Again, prices may be high for some people and they close up at 3 p.m. so get there early or you will miss out.
