Ray's of Kelso Renovates Courtyard

Just three miles south of the Cape Girardeau airport, Ray's of Kelso officially launches "patio season" this weekend at their flagship location at 151 S. Messmer Street in Kelso, Mo. Just in time for Mother's Day and a weekend chock full of graduation activities, the recently renovated courtyard debuts with the popular band, Chimes of Freedom, and a Pig Roast Luau starring whole smoked pig, grilled chicken and ribs, mahi-mahi, and much more.

The popularity of the Saturday night parties featuring live music and a themed buffet spurred the courtyard renovation. The musical lineup offers something for everyone with bands that include Mike Renick, Saxy Jazz and the Jerry Ford Combo. The themed culinary lineup is equally impressive including a steak and seafood buffet, grilled kabobs, steak and lobster, and a crowd favorite, this weekend's Hawaiian luau and pig roast. Although courtyard reservations are not necessary on weeknights, Ressel says the Saturday night parties are very popular and strongly encourages Saturday reservations, especially this weekend with so many celebrations taking place. A schedule of bands and buffet themes can be found at: http://www.raysofkelso.com/Files/courtyardEVENTS-2013.pdf.

Features of the remodeled courtyard include a big screen TV, patio heaters, and large red and black canopies and umbrellas, which allow for al fresco dining when the patio is open from May through October. Ray's full menu is available both indoors and in the courtyard during Ray's normal days of operation, Tuesday through Friday. Owner and chef Ray Ressel explains, "While our famous pizza and other finger food may be more common dining options for the courtyard, the full menu is also available, including our award-winning steak. It was recently voted best in the state by Rural Missouri magazine. We also have a few items created specifically for the courtyard--our grilled Bison Burger and Filet Mignon Loaded Nachos. And we'll offer our famous frozen Kelso Kool-Aid and margaritas, back by popular demand."

Ressel explains the big screen will be featured throughout the week when people can enjoy Cardinals' games and other broadcast events throughout the summer. "The courtyard encourages people to come as you are-- casual and relaxed," adding the covered courtyard is aimed at entertainment for everyone in the region. "Ray's of Kelso really is a short drive from almost anywhere in Southeast Missouri; we are closer than most think."

Ray's of Kelso was founded in 1964 as a Kelso drive-in. The current location is a renovated Farmers and Merchants bank built in 1920. Ray and his wife, Cindy, retained many of the original features when remodeling the building, including the original tin ceiling, the marble floors and partial marble walls. Even the original bank vault and its steel door are intact, a space guests can request for an intimate dining experience. Although the restaurant is normally closed on Sunday and Monday, it will open this Sunday for Mother's Day from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The full menu will be available along with special features including Lump Crab & Lobster Eggs Benedict and Prime Rib Oscar.

Ray's of Kelso is the flagship for two other businesses operating out of Cape Girardeau. The Plaza by Ray's hosts special events for groups as large as 750 at the Plaza Conference Center on William near I-55. The convenient venue is popular for wedding receptions, business meetings and fundraisers. The Plaza will serve a Mother's Day Brunch Buffet from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Sunday with Citrus Grilled Salmon, Apple-Cinnamon Smoked Pork Loin, Chicken Cordon Bleu, Carved Steamship Round of Beef, plus all the fresh salads, vegetables, sides, desserts, and traditional breakfast fare including eggs, bacon, sausage, and biscuits and gravy.

Ray's Catering, which Ressel calls his "kitchen on wheels," prepares onsite feasts throughout Southeast Missouri and Southern Illinois. For more information about the courtyard events, Ray's of Kelso, Ray's Catering and the Plaza by Ray's, visit www.RaysofKelso.com.