Dinner time at Delmonicos

Delmonico refers to a particular cut of beef and the fine presentation of a meal. Delmonicos in Jackson strives to meet that description in both aspects. The restaurant has been a family tradition for 23 years.

"We have maintained a level of consistency above the rest with a good amount of quality, service and atmosphere," Blake Ackman said.

The Ackman family owns Delmonicos. David and Janet Ackman and their son, Blake, have owned the restaurant since May 1985. David's been in the steakhouse business since he was 16.

Naming the restaurant was not easy. David said he remembers watching "Gunsmoke" with his father and seeing Marshal Matt Dillon and his friends eat at a place called Delmonicos on the show. The name seemed to advertise the quality of service that they were seeking.

After 23 years, David is handing the reins over to Blake. It is a job that Blake has been training for his entire life. He has learned the art of purchasing meat and cutting types of steaks from his father, as well as how to operate a business.

"Good people skills and interacting with the customers is important," Blake said. "It's as if many of our customers have watched me grow up."

When he got married, several customers asked about being invited to the wedding.

Blake will graduate from Southeast Missouri State University this year with a degree in Industrial Technology and Construction Design.

Delmonicos has regular customers from Jackson and surrounding areas such as Marble Hill, Oak Ridge, and as far away as Anna, Ill.

"Many of our regular customers are older and retired," David said. "We all like consistent service and consistent menu."

"The food and service is very good," said Opal Gast who was eating there on her way home from work. "I came here to get a balanced meal instead of going home and cooking for myself."

Delmonicos offers an extensive food bar, which is refilled often. According to David, that is the essential to having an good buffet.

"We make the food as people begin to filter in. Many restaurants try to cook everything too far ahead of time," David said.

There are three banquet rooms available for special events, and the Optimist Club and Rotary Club meet there regularly.

"Many of the larger chain restaurants are not able to offer such facilities to customers," David said.

As Delmonicos is transferred to the new generation, David said he is still involved but only in a consulting manner. Blake said he is prepared to take over the tradition started by his parents.

Delmonicos is open from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

DELMONICOS

Schapers Shopping Center, Jackson

573-243-7740