October 8, 2022

By Kathy Smith
Contributing Writer

Growing up my family lived in 10 different cities. We were always in the process of making new friends. My parents knew that by taking us to good neighborhood restaurants the chances were good of making new friends.

That is the kind of atmosphere Jeff Dietrich has created at his restaurant in Lee’s Summit.

The Iron Horse Bar and Grill is new to Lee’s Summit but not to the metro. There is one in Leawood, Kansas. The bill of fare is similar but not the same when it comes to protein choices. What is exactly the same is the excellent service and the ability of the staff to make their patrons feel at home.

Dietrich learned his restaurant management skills by working for the Burchfield’s who were the owners of Summit Hickory Pit BBQ which occupied the space that is now the home of Iron Horse Bar and Grill. He worked for them in high school. He never forgot the sense of family that was created by the Birchfield family.

Dietrich went into the military after attending Lee’s Summit High School in 1994. He eventually earned his MBA. He spent many years in the corporate world learning problem solving skills you would need to open your own business.

Well, my darlings, it is fortunate for Lee’s Summit that Dietrich brought The Iron Horse Bar and Grill to Lee’s Summit. Everything is made from scratch. The food is prepared with the utmost care. There was a learning curve when the restaurant opened. That comes with the territory. It is how an owner handles the curve which seals the deal for me. Reviews are important. Adjustments are made; everything is for the customer. Don’t you just love that philosophy?

Staff is always modifying the recipe’s according the taste of their patrons. You know what? It is like your mom’s cooking at home. Am I right? Fresh food cooked with love.

During this interview Dietrich, told me, that creating an atmosphere of excellent service is a priority. Having a positive attitude from his wait staff is important as well. Haven’t we all been to those” cranky places.” You know what I mean.

Another great thing about The Iron Horse is the music. Finally, we have some live music on Thursday to tap our toes to or bust a move to. There is also karaoke on Wednesday.

The Iron Horse reminds me of those cool little restaurants I went to when I was a kid. There is delicious food, a sense of community and owners and wait staff who really want to please you.

When you go the Iron Horse, you will see Dietrich and members of his family hard at work.

There is a big sign outside the restaurant that says;

Call me crazy, but I like to see people happy and succeeding. Life is a journey, not a competition.

Don’t those words draw you in? For more information on hours of operation call The Iron Horse Bar and Grill at 816-246-4434.

Oh by the way, are you looking for some great fish and chips? I tried the dish. It was delish.