Whiskey Creek location in Kearney, (Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today)
KEARNEY — The Whiskey Creek Wood Fire Grills located in Kearney and Norfolk are being sold to Old West Steak Company of Kearney and Norfolk. Three couples, two with many years of Whiskey Creek experience, are the buyers.
“After 29 and 27 years respectively in Nebraska, these two successful restaurants are in very capable hands” said Jim Gardner, long time Kearney restauranteur. “After 50 years of restaurant ownership, it’s time for me to take a back seat and allow someone else to move forward with these iconic restaurants.”
Buyers include Robby and Jennifer Yendra of Hickman, Cort and Ashley Gracey of Norfolk, and Greg and Malinda Villwok of Randolph. The Yendra’ s and Gracey’s have combined over 50 years with Whiskey Creek. The Villwok’s own Loup River Beef and a cattle and trucking operation in Randolph.
The new owner’s plan no changes to the operating standards of Whiskey Creek. “If it isn’t broken, don’t try to fix it” said Yendra of their plans for the two local favorites.
Whiskey Creek is celebrating 30 years in business in 2025. The menu features wood-fired steaks, barbecue, sandwiches, salads and delicious appetizers and desserts. Many items on the menu are made from scratch in-house daily.
Gardner will retain ownership of the Brand, trademarks and recipes for 10 years and those will be passed to the new owners at that time. He will also retain ownership of the Whiskey Creek Wood Fire Grill located in Brookings, South Dakota.
“Our guests will not notice any changes in the near term to the daily operation of the restaurants. New menu items will come with time, but don’t expect major moves,” said Gardner. “I want to thank the many friends and guests who have supported these restaurants through the years. Ialso want to wish God’s blessings on all of the thousands of team members who have worked for us for the past many decades. We could not have done it without you.”
