The staff of Jimm’s Steakhouse and Pub, 1935 South Glenstone, recently received word they had been selected to receive the prestigious Restaurant Neighbor Award for 2011.
In each of the past 20 years, the National Restaurant Association has recognized just a handful of restaurants with this award, given to those establishments that go above and beyond on behalf of the cities and communities they serve. Managing partner Jimm Swofford accepted for Jimm’s Steakhouse. “ It was an honor to be selected,” he said. “My staff and I are very pleased to be able to help those in our community who are less fortunate. We hope to continue the tradition for many years to come.”
For over a decade on the second Sunday in November, Jimm’s Steakhouse, in partnership with the DoubleTree Hotel, has introduced its “Feed the Homeless Prime Rib Dinner,” a sit-down affair for as many who can attend from the City’s homeless shelters. Done without fanfare in respect for its guests, the restaurant does not seek press coverage.
Although each year they hope for a smaller turnout (hence fewer people needing help), this past year, in the hotel’s ballroom, 255 adults and 35 children were served a delicious meal of prime rib, mashed potatoes, green beans, hot bread, dessert, coffee and iced tea, prepared and served by restaurant staff volunteers. If preferred, the kids were given McDonalds® Happy Meals.
Jimm’s Steakhouse is only now in its second year, but helping the Springfield community goes back to the days when the restaurant went by the name Steak and Ale. Their plan is to keep this an annual affair for as long as they are in business.
“The generosity of restaurateurs is well known within the communities they serve. To be selected from such a special group to receive the Restaurant Neighbor Award is truly an outstanding achievement, and a wonderful example of the American people at their best,” noted Missouri Restaurant Association CEO, Bob Bonney.
