In the heart of Nevada County, nestled along Highway 49, stands a culinary and cultural icon: The Willo Steakhouse. Established in 1969, The Willo is more than just a place to eat. The Willo, in Nevada City, has a legacy steeped in history and craftsmanship. It’s no surprise that it has been consistently voted the best steak by readers of The Union. It is also celebrated as a favorite roadhouse by Sacramento Magazine.
A Rich History Rooted in Community
The story of The Willo dates back to 1947 when Bill Davis, a retired Naval Lt. Commander, purchased a surplus WWII Quonset hut. This structure was disassembled and brought to Nevada County. It became a vital gathering spot for the area’s hardworking lumber and mining communities. Initially known as Bill Davis’s Hut, it served as a watering hole that quickly grew in popularity.
In the 1950s, Wilma Kenney took over. She renamed it Wilma’s Hut. She transformed it into a place where loggers and truck drivers could find hearty meals and a cold drink. The restaurant changed hands a few more times. In 1963, Bob and Peggy Tucker renamed it Tuck’s Hut. They added a covered grill and a modest dining area. It was Frank Williams who, in 1969, reshaped it into the now-famous Willo Steakhouse, a name that charmingly combines his last name and his wife Lola’s first name.
The Menu That Keeps Folks Coming Back
Signature Steaks:
What truly sets The Willo apart is its expertly grilled, hand-cut, choice New York and Ribeye steaks. Diners are in for a hands-on experience. They can watch their meal being prepared. Alternatively, they can take the tongs themselves at the in-dining-room grill. This feature embodies the welcoming, interactive spirit of The Willo.
Cook-off Style Ribs:
In addition to steaks, The Willo is famed for its St. Louis cut racks of ribs, smoked daily and served with the kind of smoky, tender perfection that leaves diners licking their fingers and asking for more.
Seafood and Other Favorites:
The diverse menu doesn’t stop at meat lovers’ delights. The Willo offers grilled halibut and catfish (try it with their special Cajun twist), grilled ½ Mary’s Organic Chicken, grilled pork chops, and veggie burgers that even meat-eaters love. Each dish is prepared with care and consistency, embodying the essence of home-cooked meals with high-quality ingredients.
Monday Steakburgers:
Monday nights at The Willo are a must-visit for burger aficionados. The half-pound steakburgers are crafted from freshly ground, aged New York steak and served on a sourdough bun with all the trimmings. It’s a feast that embodies the hearty, no-nonsense charm of the roadhouse.
Complete Meals, Value, and Comfort
Each meal at The Willo comes complete with a fresh salad, homemade dressing, ranch beans, a garlic roll, and a scoop of traditional ice cream for dessert. The prices range from $20 to $48, offering unmatched value considering the generous portions and superior quality. And yes, drinks are, as the locals say, “downright cheap!” This combination of quality and affordability solidifies The Willo’s reputation as a must-visit eatery in Nevada County.
A Dining Experience with Personality
The Willo prides itself on being an unpretentious establishment where the focus is on good food, great company, and a laid-back atmosphere. Here, what you see is what you get, and that’s precisely the charm that keeps patrons returning year after year. Diners appreciate the honest, straightforward service and the warm nostalgia of a place that feels like a step back in time.
Banquets and Celebrations
If you’re planning a special event, The Willo’s banquet room can accommodate up to 65 guests, making it ideal for birthday celebrations, company parties, or any gathering that calls for hearty food and a welcoming ambiance. With decades of experience hosting large events, The Willo has become a go-to spot for those looking to create memorable moments without breaking the bank.
A Legacy of Ownership and Tradition
The stewardship of The Willo has passed through several dedicated hands over the years. In 1976, Ken and Jeannie Hiebert combined the restaurant and bar operations and owned the property until they passed the baton to Mike Byrne and Nancy Wilson. For over two decades, Mike and Nancy have been the faces behind The Willo’s continued success, ensuring that the traditions started over half a century ago remain intact.
Why “The Willo”?
Many visitors have asked about the name’s unique spelling. Contrary to some assumptions, “Willo” is not a shortened version of “Willow.” Instead, it honors the names of Frank Williams and his wife Lola, whose vision and efforts laid the foundation for what The Willo is today.
Change on the Horizon
As time progresses, even the most enduring traditions face change. Mike and Nancy have announced their plans to retire. They are ready to pass the keys to a new group of local proprietors. These proprietors share their passion for preserving the roadhouse’s heritage. Ownership may change, but The Willo will remain a beloved community pillar. It will continue to be cherished for its consistency, charm, and unforgettable dining experience.
Expect Tradition, Not Trend
Diners new to The Willo should come prepared for an authentic experience steeped in tradition. The menu doesn’t shift with the latest trends, and that’s part of its timeless appeal. You get what The Willo serves – no frills, no special requests – and the result is a meal reminiscent of those enjoyed around a family table generations ago.
Join the Legacy
Over the years, The Willo has achieved legendary status. This is not just for the millions of hand-cut, perfectly grilled steaks it has served. It is also for the memories created by every family, traveler, and local who has walked through its doors. The essence of The Willo lies in its deep roots, connecting the past and present, serving as a reminder of the simple joys of good food and great company.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re a long-time patron or a first-time guest, come “meat” your match at The Willo and see why it has been the proud choice of Nevada County for over 50 years. Visit their Facebook page, search for them online, or drive down Hwy. 49 and experience firsthand the place that has kept a community coming back for more, generation after generation.
The Willo
16898 State Hwy 49
Nevada City, CA 95959
Tel: (530) 265-9902
thewillow.com
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