A Labor of Love
Written by Mont A. Kuykendall
Main Stories - Summer 2009
Logan's Restaurant in O'Fallon Elegance and grand style in St. Charles County
What if I told you that, even in these times, you could find a place that offers upscale dining at affordable prices? That under one roof you could enjoy a variety of unique environments, all custom designed to provide the best in entertainment? That there are still people who care about each customer that walks through their doors, and take the time to personally let them know that they appreciate their business? Skeptical? Well don’t be, because it really exists! Welcome to Logan’s.
It’s fitting somehow that Logan’s opened it’s doors on Valentine’s Day of this year, since co-owners Mark and Christa Otter both refer to their business as a labor of love. “We even named the restaurant for our eleven year old daughter, Logan,” Mark says smiling. “We wanted a strong name that would represent what we want to become, while reminding us of our personal commitment to the business.”
Their approach is a simple one – everyone is family. “For us, it is all about the people who walk through the door,” says Mark. “We want to offer them a choice of environments that are both enjoyable and appealing, while making sure each person feels they matter, and that we truly care about their experience here.” The restaurant, a sprawling 8400 square foot building, located at 1165 Technology Drive in O’Fallon, just off the intersection of Hwy-K and I-64/US40, is different, inside and out.
“We really wanted to show off the unique architecture of the building,” comments Christa. Upon walking in the door you are instantly awe-struck by the expanses within. Contemporary in design, modern art, pictures and sculptures are delicately displayed around rooms strung with color and light. “We have the main dining room, a large bar, and several private dining rooms,” she says. “We also have a beautiful semi-private patio, complete with palm trees and a waterfall, as well as another large patio in the back, for those who enjoy the outdoors. ”
“It’s important for us to be directly involved,” says Mark. Because of that belief Mark and Christa are in each day, along with their general manager, Holly Sanders, giving the restaurant their personal touch. “I am fairly old school in the business,” says Mark. “I always liked the locations where the owner is onsite. Where there is someone that you recognize, touching, and talking to the people. I find a lot of people living in the area remember a time when they felt welcome, and that their opinions mattered.”
The dining room’s design provides for an open view of the kitchen so you can view Head Chef Chris Holmdahl and his staff as they prepare their culinary delights. Having worked as the head chef in several restaurants around the country, Chris now brings his unique touch to Logan’s, creating dishes that dazzle the eye. “Because of Chris, we are able to offer a very broad menu,” comments Mark. “He is very versatile in all aspects of cooking, and dedicates the extra time to present the food in a way that is both beautiful and tasty.”
From steaks and seafood, to pasta, salads and stone-baked pizzas, there is something to please everyone. “We offer fresh fish specials every weekend, as well as daily specials for both lunch and dinner,” says Mark. “We have also introduced half-portions on our dinner entrees, which is very popular with those wanting to eat lighter, while providing better affordability.” There is also an extensive children’s menu, thanks to daughter Logan. “We spent the last number of years visiting restaurants with weak kids menus. She was instrumental in determining the choices that are available,” offers Mark. Old favorites like macaroni and cheese, toasted ravioli, and burgers are still present, but the menu also offers a kids steak, chicken breast and buttered pasta, with sides ranging from fries, to fruit and vegetables. “All of our staff is quick to get the kids orders out early,” comments Mark. “This has a calming effect, and provides the parents with a more enjoyable dinning experience.”
There is a lot of entertainment provided, too! Happy hour in the large bar, which also services the patio areas, runs from 4-6pm, Monday through Friday, with live music performances from 7:30-11:30pm on Friday nights. The lowered drink prices, and specials on appetizers, means more fun for your buck. Future activities include an Octoberfest, complete with a local Missouri wine tasting, for those wanting to celebrate locally, and, this summer, movies will be shown on the back patio. “We thought it would be fun to create a place where families can come, enjoy a movie, while being able to order drinks, pizzas and appetizers, all in a unique outdoor environment,” says Mark.
Logan’s also provides in-house, and outside catering. “We have several private rooms that are perfect for business meetings or wedding reception dinners, from small groups to larger gatherings,” comments Mark. “In fact, we would encourage anyone working within a budget to give us the chance to prove that we can deliver upscale dinning at an affordable price!”
“We are working hard on getting recognized,” offers Mark. “We love the city. We especially love the people. We feel this area is set for growth and expansion, and we want to be a part of that.” By combining upscale dining, excellent service, and the willingness to listen to what the customer wants, Logan’s hopes to be a big part of the growth, and get the recognition it deserves.
“A large number of the people who have come in lately are saying that they came based on the high recommendations of a neighbor or friend,” smiles Mark. “That means a lot to us, and we are committed to making sure they have the best experience possible, all at a great price. We do care, and what they think really matters to all of us here at Logan’s. We want each one of them to feel that by crossing the threshold, they have become part of the Logan’s Family!”
