Skippy bought the former Coachlight Inn and opened it on Labor Day of 2000 as The Route 66 Inn. Things were not smooth at first. When Skippy bought the restaurant, he was a body shop manager in St. Louis. He learned that trying to manage from afar was a nightmare with a lot of quality problems. He decided it was necessary to be a “hands on” owner and took over running the restaurant himself. He also convinced Denise Basham to quit a successful job in Human Resources and join him in managing the restaurant. “The first time I walked in, I said, ‘Oh, my gosh, we’ve got a lot to do,’” states Basham. Today, Skippy and Denise keep the restaurant running smoothly seven days a week, with the kitchen staying open until 9 p.m. Monday through Sunday. Happy Hour 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Due to customer demand they also cater, offer carry out service, and will deliver for larger corporate orders.
Skippy’s Route 66 Restaurant offers home style cooking at affordable prices for the traveler or locals who drop in for a break, a drink, or good eating, whether it be one of the daily specials or their signature dishes of Walleye, fried chicken with a great chicken gravy, freshly cut steaks, hot wings, a great roast beef sandwich with provolone cheese, or Skippy’s “more than enough” half pound burger. The fact that they go through about a 100 pounds each of wings and burgers in a good week speaks to the dishes’ popularity. We are a family-friendly, smoke-free restaurant and full-service bar, with a spacious open patio (smokers welcome), where you can enjoy those beautiful days. We keep it warm and toasty for your fall and winter enjoyment!
