History

The history of the Grill traces back over 98 years to 1912. Originally, located at 212 Walnut Street, it was known as the Uneeda-Lunch Café and owned by Charlie Liggett and Chink Brown. Charlie and Chink had purchased the café from a disgruntled shop owner for a mere $140.00. Shortly after their purchase, Chink left the business, and a new partner joined Charlie named Leonidas "Flossie" Widger. The proud name, "Silver Grill," was provided by a hungry sign painter who thought of the name, painted it on the window, and traded it for a pork chop lunch. Charlie and Flossie continued operating the Silver Grill until 1918 when they sold out to seek other opportunities. On October 28, 1933, Flossie returned to lease the original building at 218 Walnut Street. He and his family operated the business until 1949, when his son, Pete, and new partner Max McDowell took over.

Flossie Widger circa 1933

The Grill continued to prosper for the next 30 years. In 1979, the Grill was sold to John Arnolfo, and then partner, Mike Gress. The Grill closed November 1987 to expand into it's second building. Reopening in January 1988, the Grill continued to grow and prosper with the increased popularity of its giant cinnamon rolls. In the summer of 1990, buildings three and four were acquired and another expansion was in the future. A fifth building was acquired and another dining room was opened in March 1996. In the summer of 2000, the last major expansion was completed, which included a newly remodeled kitchen and restroom area. In the spring of 2003, a back outdoor patio was opened. Today, John, with his sons Zach and Sam and partner Carrie own the Silver Grill. Still today the Silver Grill is carrying on with good home style cooking, serving breakfast, lunch, and special events seven days a week. We invite you to come visit us and experience our tradition once enjoyed by a hungry sign painter.