Page 41 - Erath

Some childhood memories improve with time, especially when those recollections include mouth-watering favors and vintage collectibles. Reminiscing about childhood inspired Todd and Robin Fanning to discover a delicious way to relive and share those special moments.

"A few people looked at me kind of funny and questioned my logic of opening a steakhouse and soda shoppe in the heart of the remote Oak Dale Community," recounts Todd.

Oak Dale was once like many other rural communities. The tight-knit community had a school, church, community center and cemetery; many families called it home. Through the years, however, the school closed, the original community center burned and the population dwindled.

Todd, who grew up there and came back to the family farm, never lost his sense of home and his bigger-than-life memories. After he married Robin, they amassed an extensive collection of vintage memorabilia. The idea for a restaurant was frst inspired by their childhood experiences and their love of antiques. "We also considered opening a restaurant because we already had the property with the house," adds Todd.

"We always liked anything associated with restaurants such as dishes from diners and old-fashioned, authentic equipment such as soda fountains. Mainly it reminds us of our youth. We both like different eras. I like the 50s and Todd likes more of the old, old country," notes Robin.

After brainstorming about options, the couple came up with a perfect solution, open a restaurant with delicious food served in a down-home, cozy environment. Decorate it with nostalgic memorabilia to encourage people to slow down, enjoy their food and savor the moment.