Elmer is coming back... at least for a few weeks.
Matt Oothoudt and Mary Wilson have taken over ownership of a local favorite: Elmer's Authentic Texas Bar-B-Que near Otter Tail Lake. One of their first steps as the new owners will be to bring back the original owner, Elmer Neumann, to help in the kitchen for the first few weeks after re-opening the restaurant.
Oothoudt and Wilson purchased Elmer's from Tim and Ursula Nanson and officially took over ownership on March 1. The pair plans to re-incorporate some of the restaurant's original specialties, with Elmer's assistance, and also to make some improvements of their own.
Mary Wilson has years of experience working at the restaurant to bring into the decision-making process regarding changes to be made. "I've been here pretty much since the place was built and opened," said Wilson, who grew up in Henning.
The two explained that they are trying to bring the restaurant back to the way it originally was. Some former employees are even returning to the business to work.
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The menu will basically stay the same, with the Sunday special being barbeque chicken. Weekly specials are planned.
Changes to the interior are minimal: a fresh coat of paint and a little decorating work are the most noticeable differences.
"We both wanted to get into the restaurant business and this is the one I love," Wilson said of her decision to co-own the establishment.
"It was a business opportunity that allowed us to stay close to this area," said Oothoudt, a Wadena native. Oothoudt and Wilson both said how everyone has been very helpful in the transition process.
Elmer's Authentic Texas Bar-B-Que was officially re-opened to the public on April 5.
Restaurant hours will run from 4 p.m.-10 p.m. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday and 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. on Sunday.
