When Michael and Meredith Shadwick, owners of Kirkwood-based Honey Bee’s Biscuits + Good Eats and Tropical Moose Shaved Ice, partnered with Kirkwood resident Michael Kleckner to take over the iconic Spencer’s Grill (223 S. Kirkwood), loyal patrons wondered how much would change. When the doors reopened Friday, November 8, it was clear that while some updates were made, the essence of the diner remained intact.
The new menu reflects Michael’s commitment to “all the all-star performers,” including eggs, pancakes, biscuits, hash browns, breakfast meats, slingers, hashes, country fried steak, and, of course, the ever-popular slammer.
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Classic combo specials were mostly unchanged, with minor tweaks and improvements. Waffles, French toast, and country fried steak were removed, while French toast biscuits, a breakfast sandwich combo, and an omelette combo (similar to a French omelette, slightly set in the middle with cheddar and butter) were added. Country fried steak will make occasional appearances as a special once the fryers are back in action. Other favorites, such as the slinger, Juicy Lucy, and scrapple will be added soon, along with ham and turkey sausage.
The proteins come from Behrmann Meat & Processing in Albers, Illinois, bread from Union Loafers, and eggs and dairy from local farms. Spencer’s biscuits and gravy are slightly different than Honey Bee’s version, featuring a traditional diner gravy and smaller biscuits without the honey glaze.
To maintain affordability, most drink prices were reduced by 75 cents to $1, while menu items increased modestly by 50 cents to $1 to account for changes in product. Canned soda is now offered instead of fountain soda (with ice available), and coffee is the same blend from La Cosecha used at Honey Bee’s. The Shadwick’s overarching goal was to keep the familiar Spencer’s experience while adding subtle upgrades and thoughtful updates.
