2015 Restaurant & Catering Guide by Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce

Greater

KilleenChamber.com

2015 RES TAUR ANT AND C ATERING GUIDE

B U S I N E S S Q U A R T E R LY

Starting FOODS fromScratch A NEW DOWNTOWN DINING EXPERIENCE

Discover the

DIVERSE

of Killeen

FEATURING PUBLIC POLICY: LAWS & SAUSAGES (SEE P. 04)

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: METROPLEX HEALTH SYSTEM (SEE P. 14) PLUS

EVENTS // FLAVORS OF CENTR AL TEX AS // ROCK THE FOUNDATION

04 CONTENTS S P E C I A L F E AT U R E S 02 MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT:

These Changing Times

04 LAWS AND SAUSAGES:

A Perspective on the 84th Session of the Texas Legislature

08 INVESTING IN OUR ECONOMIC FUTURE:

If you are an investor in the Chamber, you are investing in the economic future of our community.

10 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND THE NATURE OF WORK The nature of work has changed in the United States since 1980.

12 FAST INTERNET AS A PLACE DESIGN TOOL

Cities with fast internet will have a better chance of attracting the entrepreneurs that are creating the companies that will drive our economy.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT 14 Metroplex Health System: Over 35 Years of Extending the Healing Ministry of Christ to Central Texas

KILLEEN CHAMBER 16 CALENDAR OF EVENTS 18 RIBBON CUTTING PHOTOS 22 KILLEEN CHAMBER EVENT PHOTOS

KilleenChamber.com

2 0 1 5 R E S TA U R A N T & C AT E R I N G G U I D E 28 7th ANNUAL FLAVORS OF CENTRAL TEXAS 30 RESTAURANT & CATERING GUIDE 30 Traditional Fare 32 Steakhouse 33 Bakery 33 Italian 34 Bar-B-Que 34 Hawaiian 35 Burger 35 Pizza 35 Food Trucks 36 Diners & Delis 36 Asian 37 Sports Bar & Grill 37 Wine/Pubs 38 Southern 38 Mexican 38 Coffee/Tea/Sweets 39 Vegetarian/Vegan

40 STARTING FROM SCRATCH 42 LOCAL MAP 43 CENTRAL TEXAS COLLEGE CULINARY ARTS 44 CHEW ON THIS: BIG HOSS BBQ 45 SO YOU WANT TO OPEN A RESTAURANT? ON THE COVER

Scratch Elevated Bistro

offers a unique dining experience in Downtown Killeen.

Message from the President

THESE CHANGING TIMES

Chamber Leadership

Sonja Havens First National Bank

n recent weeks, it has been my pleasure to be interviewed on numerous occasions by television and print media on the remarkable growth that has occurred in our community and region. It is a fair statement that most people would not describe a media interview as a pleasure. I find it to be so because of the positive story we have to tell.

Let’s start with population. The number of people living in the City of Killeen increased by 43.49% over the 10- year period from 2000 - 2010. Estimates are that our population increased 9.75% from 2010 - 2015. That being the case, our population today would be just greater than 140,000. It has been documented that the number of military retirees living in our region grew by 20.7% during the five-year period beginning in 2009 and ending in 2014. This is, no doubt, due to the fact that during military downsizing, Fort Hood is viewed as an enduring installation. We know from the Fort Hood Region Veterans Inventory Initiative, which surveys those separating from the service at Fort Hood, that 25% of respondents indicate that they intend to stay in the region. An additional 35% of respondents indicate that they would stay in the region if they are able to find desirable employment. It is reasonable to ask why this has happened. Several factors contribute to this. First, the combination of the volunteer Army and the Gulf War on Terror has served to create a demand for military family support programs both on post and off. Those programs are effective. Families stay here during deployment. Killeen and the region become their home. Second, we know from all kinds of third party research projects that the cost of living here is a bargain compared to most places. Third, a tremendous amount of transportation infrastructure has been put in place in recent years making it much easier to commute for work or pleasure. Fourth, the growth in Austin is migrating north. No better example exists than the number of Austin Community College graduates planning to attend Texas A&M University Central Texas. Fifth, we are rapidly creating jobs in medical, education, small business and retail sectors. I could go on. We are fortunate to live in a remarkable place during a remarkable time — a place characterized by growth and opportunity. A new university, an enduring military installation, improved transportation and an abundance of available talent all mean a bright future —if we can capitalize on the opportunity.

Chairman of the Board

Sector Chair of Communications TaNeika Driver-Moultrie City of Killeen

GKCC PRESIDENT/CEO John Crutchfield, III

GUEST CONTRIBUTORS Susan Parkhill, Teleperformance Abdul Subhani, Centex Technologies

EDITOR

Jennifer Hetzel

Printing Digitouch Media For more information on the Killeen area or the Killeen Chamber of Commerce please visit the following websites: • KilleenChamber.com • KilleenTexas.gov • Facebook.com/KilleenChamber

For Advertising, Contact Nichole Anderson, nichole@killeenchamber.com

We hope that you will get involved with our Chamber of Commerce. Through that involvement, we hope

you will lead, transform and strengthen your business and our community. When you do, we will all be better off —in these changing times!

AD VERTI SE W I TH U S

Call 254.526.9551 John Crutchfield, III

Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce President/CEO

SPECIAL FE ATURES

PUBLIC POLICY

A Perspective on the 84th Session of the Texas Legislature

BY JOHN CRUTCHFIELD Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce President/CEO

Those who populate the House of Representatives and Senate adjourned the 84th session of the Texas Legislature sine die on Monday, June 1. Sine die is a Latin term meaning indefinitely or without fixing a day for future action or meeting. Some among us believe meeting five months out of every twenty four months is not often enough. Others, maybe the majority, believe two months out of every five years would be safer. Opinions make no difference because the fact is, our Texas Constitution prohibits the Legislature from meeting again until the next regular session begins in January 2017.

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he exception: the governor, and only the governor, can call a Special Session for specific items that he declares are an emergency.

This Legislature had the largest turnover and the largest number of freshman in modern Texas political history. Much has been written about the 84th Regular Session. Much more will be written. The opinions vary. On the House side, 4,207 bills filed versus 3,950 two years ago, a six percent increase. 818 bills passed versus 732 two years ago, a 12-percent increase. A little more activity but really not much change, at least in volume, in the House of Representatives.

to other state agencies and re-routed approximately $1.3 billion to TxDOT. Most importantly, the legislature created new funding sources for highway maintenance and construction. In November 2015 voters agreed to amend the constitution again to add $2.5 billion of the general sales tax beginning in the 2017-2018 biennium and 35%of vehicle sales tax revenue above $5 billion beginning in the 2019-2020 biennium. These funds will allow us to maintain and expand I-35 and US195. Additionally, it will allow us to develop US190 east and west to interstate standards, which would result in a new economic corridor and robust connectivity. For a region as dependent upon transportation as is Central Texas, this is a once in a life time development.

More than 1,000 people move to Texas each day. It is estimated that the state’s population will double by 2050. This kind of growth creates congestion. Nowhere is this more evident than on our highways. If steps are not taken, our economy could suffer. The good news is that steps are being taken.

On the Senate side, 2,069 bills filed versus 1,918 two years ago, an eight percent increase. 504 bills passed versus 705 two years ago, a 29-percent decrease. Things got tougher in the Senate. For those who believe in fewer laws, not a bad thing.

So, how did it go from a Killeen – Central Texas perspective? Several major accomplishments that will benefit this community and region.

Transportation More than 1,000 people move to Texas each day. It is estimated that the state’s population will double by 2050. This kind of growth creates congestion. Nowhere is this more evident than on our highways. If steps are not taken, our economy could suffer. The good news is that steps are being taken. In November 2014 voters approved Proposition 1 to amend the Constitution. Prop 1 allowed legislators, in this session, to allocate $2.5 billion in oil and gas tax revenues to road construction and maintenance. Second, legislators ended diversions in state gasoline tax revenues

Higher Education

The first building on our Texas A&M University-Central Texas (TAMUCT) campus was built with Tuition Revenue Bonds authorized by the Legislature. The second building was built with funds from the Permanent University Fund authorized by the Texas A&M University System. For the first time since the 2007 session, when the first building was funded, legislators authorized $3 billion in Tuition Revenue Bonds to pay for new buildings on university campuses around the state. TAMUCT will be the recipient of $36 million, easily enough to build the third building. Additionally, TAMUCT received funding to expand their presence in East Williamson County. This funding will provide very beneficial flexibility. When you view TAMUCT as a driver of economic development, this funding will pay many dividends in the future. TAMUCT is, and will be, much more than an academic institution. It will provide the means to develop talent that will make us competitive in the ever-changing world we face. It can serve as the vehicle through which

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emerging technologies can be incubated. And, it will be a uniting force to bring the region together so that everyone can benefit. No institution, outside of Fort Hood, has the potential to change the face of our community and region as does TAMUCT.

Certainly, some did not get what they want or need in funding from the 84th Legislative Session. Public Education got more but probably not enough. Coupled with concerns about Impact Aid at the federal level, KISD and CCISD will have their own challenges. Community colleges seem to have gotten more regulation and less money with which to pay for it. Those who want more money to pay for social programs came away disappointed. The community and region also lost in another way. Two veteran highly effective members of the legislature elected to retire. State Representative and Public Education Chair

Jimmie Don Aycock will leave as one of the most respected and effective members of the House in modern history. Senator and Natural Resources Chair Troy Fraser will leave after having served in the Senate since 1997. He served in the House prior to that. His institutional knowledge and experience coupled with the ability to apply that knowledge and experience has been unparalleled. Communities are fortunate to have the kind of access afforded by people like these two elected officials. To say that they will be difficult to replace would be an understatement.

State Representative and Public Education Chair Jimmie Don Aycock

Senator and Natural Resources Chair Troy Fraser

SPECIAL FE ATURES

IN V E S T ING IN OU R

ECONOMIC FUTURE The Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce provides many ways for investors to directly participate, whether through programs, councils or events. BY JONATHAN PACKER Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce, Former Senior Vice President of Business Development

hrough direct participation, an investor takes an active role in getting the greatest value out of their investment. For example, by attending a networking event or a Public Policy Luncheon, an investor can build critical business relationships. By participating in programs like New Teachers Showcase or Flavors of Central Texas, an investor gains direct access to potential customers.

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The Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce also implements programs that impact every businessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; bottom line. Through its efforts in Public Policy, Military Relations, Community Development and Economic Development, the Chamber affects the long-range economic prosperity of the region. These programs need private sector investment to be successful. If you are an investor in the Chamber, you are investing in the economic future of our community.

The following is a sample of what a Chamber investment supports.

SPECIAL FE ATURES

The Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce implements programs that impact every business’ bottom line. Through its efforts in Public Policy, Military Relations, Community Development and Economic Development, the Chamber affects the long range economic prosperity of the region. COMMUNIT Y DE VELOPMENT • Create a positive community image by proactively telling our story using all forms of media. • Collaborate with the city staff and KEDC to develop and implement a program to redevelop a unique and authentic downtown.

MILITARY REL ATIONS • Promote the importance and sustainability of Fort Hood and defense-related industries. Take advantage of opportunities to expand Fort Hood. • Build on the strong relationship between the community and Fort Hood and with the U.S. Army.

• Foster a place that is authentic, inclusive, courageous, healthy and proud so that our community thrives. • Think regionally. Act locally. Collaborate with others outside the community to focus on opportunities and challenges.

PUBLIC POLICY

Examples: Present at the Army Listening Session, construct a second runway, CG/ CSM Social, lead the CT-FH Chapter of AUSA, organize and advise the National Mounted Warfare Foundation, NCO & Soldier of the Year Recognition, Veterans Inventory Report

ECONOMIC DE VELOPMENT • Grow new businesses through entrepreneurial endeavors.

Examples: Killeen Business Quarterly, Hasan Trial Lemonade Project, Downtown Speaker Series, positive news releases and media interviews, media kits, Annual Regional Economic Development Conference

Examples: Business Resource Center, Retail Leakage Studies, International Council of Shopping Center Marketing, Economic Impact Analysis, Center for Solar Energy

•

Grow and nurture appropriate relationships to build trust with elected officials to cause the voice of business and community leaders to be heard.

•

Develop a community state and federal legislative agenda and distribute to elected officials

•

Organize community events for federal and state officials to build support for Fort Hood, TAMUCT and for other community needs.

•

Encourage members to become active in issues affecting business at the state and federal levels.

• Conduct an aggressive business recruitment, retention and expansion program. • Attract new retail business to the community. • Guide and lead community incentive negotiations. • Capitalize on the economic development potential of the university.

Examples: Printed Legislative Agendas, Legislative Day, Quarterly Legislative Luncheons, State of the City and County Luncheon

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Economic Development and the Nature of

BY SUSAN PARKHILL Teleperformance VP, Operations, Strategic Business Leader & GKCC Chair, Business Development

WORK

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T H E N AT U R E O F W O R K H A S C H A N G E D I N T H E U N I T E D S TAT E S S I N C E 1 9 8 0. T H E S E C H A N G E S C O N S T I T U T E A PA R A D I G M S H I F T R E G A R D I N G W O R K . A PA R A D I G M I S A S H A R E D S E T O F A S S U M P T I O N S A B O U T W H AT L E A D S T O S U C C E S S . T H E H I S T O R Y I S T H AT, O N C E A PA R A D I G M S H I F T S , A R E T U R N T O W H AT WA S N O R M A L I S N O L O N G E R P O S S I B L E . I N O T H E R W O R D S , T H E F U T U R E I S N O T G O I N G T O L O O K L I K E T H E PA S T.

his shift can occur for many reasons. Any community’s ability to plan and grow its economy over the long haul is directly related to a community’s understanding of this shift and the reasons for it.

Generally, the reasons can be categorized as technological progress and globalization. Technological advances began to accelerate exponentially on April 30, 1993 when the Internet became commercially available to the general public. It accelerated again in 2008 when social media emerged. It continues to accelerate today with the development of advanced software and specialized applications, or “apps”. Technology puts information in the hands of people— individuals and organizations—quicker today than ever before. And they use that information to run their lives and identify and take advantage of opportunities for their companies. Globalization came about because barriers were removed. The communications barrier was destroyed when ways were created to move information at the speed of light through pathways that wrapped around the world. Trade barriers were removed through the adoption of treaties and trade agreements. Quotas and tariffs were eliminated or substantially reduced. The world is, from an economic perspective, essentially borderless. Nothing exists to stop the flow of materials, products and knowledge around the world. It is now possible for companies to set up most anywhere in the world and move components and equipment to do most anything. So, how has this impacted jobs in the United States? Significantly, it turns out. According to a recent New York Times article entitled The Changing Nature of Middle Class Jobs, nearly 300 out of every 1,000 middle class jobs were held by workers in the manufacturing industry in 1980. Today, the rate is half that. A community trying to recruit manufacturing jobs has the odds stacked steeply against it. The odds of success are low because of the declining numbers of manufacturing jobs and the increasing competition for those jobs.

This is an expensive strategy with high risk and low return. Too many are pursuing that strategy. Consider this: from 1980 to 2012, jobs for machine operators decreased by 33%; production supervisors by 23%; construction by 15%; freight handlers by 14%; assemblers of electrical equipment by 9%; metal working by 9%; and jobs for mechanics by 9%. On the other hand, specialty occupations, especially those involving technology and innovation, accounted for the largest share of growth in the middle class wage range. While fewer positions are available in maledominated production occupations, a greater share of the jobs in demand today are in occupations more open to women. That same New York Times article indicates that in 1980, 19 of every 1,000 middle class jobs were held by registered nurses. Today, the rate is 39 per 1,000. Jobs for mathematical and computer scientists increased by 19%, supervisors by 16%, adjusters by 15%, and jobs for health technologists increased by 13%. The same two forces that caused the demise of blue collar jobs are now fueling the rise of jobs in the innovation sector. Enrico Moretti writes in The New Geography of Jobs, “The rise of the innovation sector is associated with an increase in the value of talent for a simple reason: economic value depends on talent as never before. In the 20th century, competition was about accumulating physical capital. Today, it is about attracting the best human capital.”

“What really matters is that American workers produce goods or services that are innovative and unique and not easily reproduced. This is the only way to generate jobs that pay well in the face of stiff global competition.” Talent is what occurs when education meets with innovation. The key to our economic future is to have educational opportunities available to those who want to be life long learners.

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FA S T I N T E R N ET A S A

PLACE DESIGN TOOL

BY ABDUL SUBHANI, Centex Technologies Managing Principal & GKCC Sector Chair, Organizational Advancement

Place Design is the planning and management of a communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s public goods for the purpose of economic development. Public goods are assets that are available to everyone in a community, and the use of a public good by one person does not reduce or exclude its availability to another. Examples of public goods are roads, parks, firework displays, and police protection.

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Major corporations, technology firms and call centers are using our fiber to build their business. Benefiting from unlimited bandwidth, incredible speeds and local, Chattanooga-focused customer service.” —Chattanooga Gig

lace Design creates economic prosperity when people and businesses are attracted to public assets. Entrepreneurs find inspiration in communities with a strong sense of place. Consumers like to spend time in communities and at businesses with unique character. When given a choice, people choose to live in communities that appeal to them. Employers and investors move to these communities because smart people are doing innovative things in communities where they are inspired. The concept of Place is easy to understand when one reflects on places like Venice, Paris or San Francisco. We have a visceral sense of the public character of these places. It doesn’t need to be explained. Place Design, however, is about more than exciting downtowns and green space. Place Design involves any public good that is more attractive to people, that causes them to live, invest and spend time in a community. In this light, internet speed is a Place Design tool.

INTERNET SPEEDS AND PLACE DESIGN Public utilities supply a community with electricity, gas, water or sewer. The Federal Communications Commission recently voted to classify internet providers as public utilities. It isn’t

necessary to wade into the Net Neutrality debate, which has more national than local significance, to know that fast and affordable internet as a public good can spur economic growth. Cities with fast Internet will have a better chance of attracting the entrepreneurs that are creating the companies that will drive our economy. Better Internet service will give every business more productivity and efficiency. Residents have easier access to online learning and entertainment when they have fast and affordable Internet.

WHERE DOES KILLEEN STAND? According to data collected by speedtest.net, the average download speed in Killeen is 15.74 Mbps, compared to a national average of 18.2 Mbps. In general, densely populated areas near either coast tend to have faster speeds. Faster Internet speeds also tend to correlate strongly with the income of a region1. Recent projects have created pockets of fast and affordable Internet in places that did not previously have it. Google Fiber first launched in Kansas City, MO with speeds up to 1,000 Mbps. Currently Google Fiber is also available or launching in Atlanta, Austin, Charlotte, Nashville, Provo, Raleigh-Durham and Salt Lake City with plans to expand to four more cities soon2.

In Chattanooga, 1,000 Mbps internet is available at every house and business in the city through a 100% fiber network built by their community-owned electric utility provider. According to their website, “Major corporations, technology firms and call centers are using our fiber to build their business. Benefiting from unlimited bandwidth, incredible speeds and local, Chattanooga-focused customer service.”3

WHAT CAN WE DO First, the Killeen region should identify 1,000 Mbps Internet as an economic development goal. The business community also needs to document the benefits that fast and affordable Internet will bring to this region. Finally, working together can make this a realty. Think about the impact fast internet could have on local businesses, students and residents. Greater Killeen still has time to get ahead of the curve, as 1,000 Mbps Internet is far from the norm. However, the longer this area waits, the more likely it is that Internet speed will be an economic development disadvantage. Imagine the benefits of being the military community with the fastest and most reliable Internet. The possibilities are remarkable.

1 Fischer-Baum, Robert. “A Map of Who's Got the Best (And Worst) Internet Connections in America.” Gizmodo, September, 2013. Accessed on July 23, 2015. http://bit.ly/1kJL9nB 2 Google Fiber. Accessed on July 24, 2015. http://fiber.google.com 3 Chattanooga Gig. Accessed on July 24, 2015. http://chattanoogagig.com

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— Business Spotlight —

ME TROPLE X HE ALTH SYS TEM: MORE THAN 35 YE ARS OF E X TENDING Whether through treatment in the hospital or preventive care and education outside its walls, Metroplex Health System’s mission for more than 35 years has been and continues to be “Extending the Healing Ministry of Christ”. Metroplex Health System is a faith-based organization, member of the Adventist Health System and partner with Baylor Scott & White Health. The multi-campus facility is equipped with more than 300 physicians offering 43 medical specialties.

Hospital in Lampasas. Other facilities within the health system include: Home Care of Metroplex serving all of Central Texas; Advanced Imaging Center; Metroplex Rehabilitation Center; Center for Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine, with centers in both Killeen and Lampasas; Metroplex Sleep Center; Ambulatory Surgery Center; Metroplex Endoscopy Center; and Metroplex Cardiac and Vascular Center (including cardiac rehab services).

Last year, the hospital served approximately 120,000 patients, more than 47,000 patients visited the emergency department, and nearly 1,300 babies were born at the Sue Mayborn Women’s Center. In addition, the hospital provided approximately $13,431,083 million of free services, averaging $36,797 per day of charity health services.

Our Business is Wellness

Metroplex Health System consists of 232-beds and encompasses Metroplex Hospital in Killeen, the Behavioral Health Center in Killeen and Rollins Brook Community

Healthy hospitals are a cornerstone of a healthy community. As one of the largest industries in many communities, hospitals can affect the health behaviors of thousands of

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For more information, visit Metroplex Health System mplex.org To contact Metroplex Health System: Metroplex Hospital: (254) 526-7523, 2201 S. Clear Creek Rd., Killeen TX 76549 Rollins Brook Community Hospital: (512) 556-3682, 608 N Key Ave, Lampasas TX 76550 Physician Finder Line: (254) 526-DOCS Metroplex Wellness: (254) 519-8200

THE HEALING MINISTRY OF CHRIST TO CENTRAL TE X AS employees and community members, in addition to providing healthcare to patients.

The Wellness Department at Metroplex is dedicated to providing health initiatives and opportunities to the communities of Central Texas. In addition to free monthly vaccination clinics to area children, the Wellness Department provides free community health screenings, free exercise classes (kickboxing, Tai Chi, yoga, Zumba), free parenting and health education classes, and participates in more than 65 community health events a year throughout Central Texas to offer preventive health screenings and educational information. Later this year, a new mobile wellness unit funded by Metroplex Foundation will help bring even more screenings into the community. Every three years, the Metroplex Wellness Department completes a community health needs assessment to determine the adequacy of health services in the area and assess possible gaps in the services needed.

Metroplex Health System has received several top honors and recognitions for providing high quality patient care. • Metroplex was honored with an “A” grade in the fall 2014 and spring 2015 Hospital Safety Score, which rates how well hospitals protect patients from errors, injuries and infections. • Metroplex was recognized as a 2014 “Top Hospital” and Rollins Brook a “Top Rural Hospital” from the Leapfrog Group, the nation’s leading experts on patient safety. Metroplex Hospital is one of three hospitals in Texas to receive the Top Hospital award and Rollins Brook is the only rural hospital in Texas to receive the Top Rural Hospital award. • Metroplex Hospital was recognized with the 2014 Quest Award for High-value Healthcare and for reducing preventable hospital-acquired conditions and readmissions. • Becker’s Hospital Review names Adventist Health System, which includes Metroplex Health System, among “150 Great Places to Work in Healthcare”. • Adventist Health System, which includes Metroplex Health System, named a Gallup Great Workplace Award winner for fifth year in a row.

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+ BUSINESS

Calendar of Events

NOVEMBER 2015

DECEMBER 2015

JANUARY 2015

FEBRUARY 2015

19 Thursday

2 Wednesday

6 Wednesday

4 Thursday

Third Thursday Mixer

19 Thursday

Young Professionals Monthly Social

17 Thursday

24 Tuesday

17 Thursday

Young Professionals Book Club

26 Thursday

Chamber Closed in Observance of Thanksgiving

27 Friday

Chamber Closed in Observance of Thanksgiving

Networking Power Hour

18 Monday

Chamber Closed in Observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Third Thursday Mixer Young Professionals Monthly Business Luncheon

24 Thursday

Chamber Closed in Observance of Christmas

25 Friday

Chamber Closed in Observance of Christmas

21 Thursday

Young Professionals Monthly Social

5 Friday

Young Professionals Rock the Foundation Casino Night

Third Thursday Mixer Grace Christian Center 1401 Elms Road Killeen TX 76542

15 Monday

21 Thursday

2016 KISD 8th Grade College & Career Expo

Young Professionals Monthly Business Luncheon

Chamber Closed in Observance of Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day

16 Tuesday

18 Thursday

Third Thursday Mixer

18 Thursday

Young Professionals Monthly Business Luncheon

26 Friday

Stay up to date with upcoming events: Connect with the Chamber: Killeen chamber.com Facebook.com/killeenchamber

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Greater Killeen Young Professionals: gkyp.org Facebook.com/gkypro

Regional High School Career Day

For info about membership, visit killeenchamber. com/invest or call 254.526.9551.

Contact the Killeen Chamber at 254.526.9551 to schedule your own ribbon cutting.

BUSINESS

KILLEEN CHAMBER

RIBBON CUTTINGS

Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;GACI 2100 S WS Young Drive #114 Killeen TX 76543 agacistore.com

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ALUNA SKINCARE AND MASSAGE 4400-2 E. Centex Expy. Ste. B Killeen TX 76543 254.245.7796 alunaskincareandmassage.com

CVS PHARMACY 330 W. Stan Schlueter Loop Killeen TX 76549 254.526.4566 cvs.com

BUSINESS

FIRST NATIONAL BANK TEXAS

GYM X

KISD TRANSPORTATION FACILITY

3404 W. Stan Schlueter Loop Killeen TX 76549 254.200.2731 1stnb.com

801 S. Ft. Hood St. Killeen TX 76541 254.628.7867 gymx.com

9132 W. Trimmier Road Killeen TX 76542 254.336.0002 killeenisd.org

OPERATION PHANTOM SUPPORT

OS2 HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS, LLC

RESIDENCE INN

315 E. Ave C Killeen TX 76541 254.238.4409 operationphantomsupport.com

4524 S. WS Young Drive Ste. 105 Killeen TX 76542 254.702.2079 os2healthcaresolutions.com

400 E. Central Texas Expy. Killeen TX 76541 254.634.1020 mariott.com

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BUSINESS

TEXAS FIRST STATE BANK

THE PARK @ MTM

2100 E. Stan Schlueter Loop Ste. H Killeen TX 76542 254.488.4500 stantonrealtygroup.com

3310 E. Centex Expy. Killeen TX 76543 254.634.1011 mytexasbank.com

4006 E. Stan Schleuter Loop Killeen TX 76543 254.338.9963 mytutorandmore.com

TOYOTA OF KILLEEN

WALMART NO. 6286

4001 E. Centex Expy. Killeen TX 76543 254.690.5800 toyotaofkilleen.com

3404 W. Stan Schlueter Loop Killeen TX 76549 254.669.6168 walmart.com

WRIGHT CLASS FINANCIAL PROFESSIONALS

STANTON REALTY GROUP

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4110 Clear Creek Road Ste. 102 Killeen TX 76549 855.553.7435 wrightclassfinancialprofessionals.com

BUSINESS

Killeen Chamber 1.

E V E N T P H O T O S —————— 3.

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1. April – Casual Friday at the Chamber 2. April – Chamber Staff Attends KISD Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon 3. April – Dialogue on the State of Public Education CTC 4. April – Dialogue on the State of Public Education CTC 5. April – Dialogue on the State of Public Education Workforce Solutions 6. April – Dialogue on the State of Public Education Workforce Solutions 7. April – Mixer Hosted by First National Bank 8. April – PPC Delivers Legislative Day Packages 9. April – Welcome Council Social 10. April – Young Professionals Book Club

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BUSINESS

E V E N T P H O T O S ——————

Killeen Chamber

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11. April – Young Professionals Don't Mess With Texas Trash Off 12. April – Young Professionals High School Reunion Volunteer Day 13. April – Young Professionals Luncheon 14. April – Young Professionals Social 15. May – Casual Friday at the Chamber 16. May – Leadership Killeen State Government Day 17. May – Lemonade Day III Corps Ribbon Cutting 18. May – Luncheon with Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar 19. May – Luncheon with Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar 20. May – Mixer Hosted by Central Texas Home Builders Association Greater Killeen BUSINESS QUARTERLY

BUSINESS

Killeen Chamber 21.

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21. May – MRC Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center Tour 22. May – Networking Power Hour 23. May – PEC Learn How to Become a HUB Vendor and Vendor Event 24. May – PEC Learn How to Become a HUB Vendor and Vendor Event 25. May – Young Professionals Book Club 26. May –Young Professionals Luncheon 27. May – Young Professionals Social 28. June – Army Birthday Celebration 29. June – Army Birthday Celebration 30. June – Casual Friday at the Chamber

Greater Killeen BUSINESS QUARTERLY

BUSINESS

Killeen Chamber

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31. June – MRC GO & CSM BBQ 32. June – June-MRC GO & CSM BBQ 33. June – Non-Profit Council Grant Writing Workshop 34. June – Networking Power Hour 35. June – Mixer Hosted by Stripes Convenience Store 36. June –Leadership Killeen Graduation 37. June – Non-Profit Council Grant Writing Workshop 38. June – Fats, Oils & Greases Seminar 39. June – Young Professionals Luncheon 40. June – Young Professionals Social

Greater Killeen BUSINESS QUARTERLY

BUSINESS

Killeen Chamber

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41. June – Young Professionals Book Club 42. July – Casual Friday at the Chamber 43. July – Chamber Staff and restaurant members on KWTX-TV Morning Buzz 44. July – Dialogue on the State of Public Education KISD 45. July – Dialogue on the State of Public Education KISD 46. July – Mixer Hosted by TAMUCT 47. July – Networking Power Hour 48. July – Young Professionals Book Club 49. July – Young Professionals Luncheon 50. July –Young Professionals Social

BUSINESS

Killeen Chamber

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51. August – Casual Friday at the Chamber 52. August – Flavors of Central Texas 53. August – Flavors of Central Texas 54. August – Flavors of Central Texas 55. August – Flavors of Central Texas 56. August – Young Professionals Social 57. August – Hood Howdy 58. August – Networking Power Hour 59. August – Young Professionals Field Day 60. August – Young Professionals Field Day

Greater Killeen BUSINESS QUARTERLY

COMMUNIT Y OVERVIEW

7th Annual

Flavors of Central Texas

Flavors of Central Texas is a highly anticipated community event that brings all of the area’s best restaurants, caterers and bakers together under one roof, giving attendees the opportunity to try them all in one night. More than 850 people attended the seventh annual event on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2015 at the Killeen Civic and Conference Center. Participating businesses set up beautifully decorated booths and offered samples of their finest foods, while attendees visited each booth to try to win the “Fullest Fan Award” and selected their favorite booths to win in the People’s Choice award. Three lucky and daring chefs also participated in the Top Chef competition, creating their best appetizer, entrée and dessert using a special secret ingredient. A panel of celebrity judges determined who came out on top as the ultimate Top Chef.

Smoothie; and Meredith Viguers from Let Us Do The Cooking, presenting homemade pancakes with fresh fruit. The Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce has made every effort to ensure that the information in this Restaurant & Catering Guide is accurate. Please contact businesses directly for more information. The restaurants and caterers in this guide are members, investors and customers of the Greater Killeen Chamber who have chosen to be included.

Top Chef Winner: • Matt Cranfill - The Shilo Restaurant

Winners in the People's Choice Competitions: • Best Appetizer - Jason's Deli and Texas Land & Cattle • Best Entree - Bones Cracked Rib • Best Dessert - Pink Tulips Cakery • Best Decorated Booth - Pink Tulips Cakery

Attendees were also wowed with cooking demonstrations from local cooking experts, including Jayson Gay, a culinary student from Central Texas College presenting a unique Chicken Nugget; Veronica Lorneli from PureFit Foods, presenting a Healthy

For information about membership, visit killeenchamber.com/invest or call 254.526.9551.

Greater Killeen BUSINESS QUARTERLY

K T R A D I T I O N A L FA R E ARBONICHE’S FINE CATERING

CHICK-FIL-A RESTAURANT

CLASSIC CATERING AND RENTALS

· 254.466.9630 · Hours: Mon-Fri 9 am-4 pm · arbonichesfinecatering.com · 4013 Chaparral Road Killeen TX 76542

· 254.680.5473 · Hours: Mon-Sat 6 am-10 pm, Sun Closed · chick-fil-a.com · 1402 Central Texas Expy. Killeen TX 76542

· 254.778.8100 · Hours: By Appointment · classiccateringandrentals.com · 802 S. 47th St. Temple 76502

Arboniche's Fine Catering is Central Texas’ Fastest Growing and most professional catering service. Arboniche's Fine Catering has gained popularity by providing its clients with professionally prepared and great tasting quality food products as well as adhering to the highest standards of the hospitality industry. Our mission and goal is to provide clients with the freshest quality food products and courteous and professional service staff. Rely on Arboniche's Fine Catering for exceptional catering with a personal touch for all of your catering needs.

Our chicken is 100% breast meat, with no fillers or additives. We hand-bread each filet in our kitchens and our product doesn’t arrive as a pre-formed patty or nugget. Our salads are freshly prepared and hand chopped, our lemonade is freshly squeezed, our tea is brewed fresh and our biscuits are hand rolled and cut. All with some of the best hospitality in town!

Classic Catering and Rentals is a full-service catering facility and party rental supplier in Temple, Texas, serving the greater Central Texas area from Waco to Austin. Classic Catering possesses more than 30 years of food service and catering experience combined with wedding and decorating expertise. Classic Catering's combined talents and commitment to ensuring that that the smallest details are not overlooked will make certain that you have an enjoyable and memorable event.

K T R A D I T I O N A L FA R E CLUB HOOD · 254.532.5073 · Hours: Mon-Fri 9 am-4:30pm · hoodmwr.com/club_hood · 24th Street & Wainwright Dr. Bldg. 5764 Fort Hood 76544

Club Hood provides new and innovative high quality products, event planning and customer service for Fort Hood and the surrounding communities. Through dedication, value-priced menus and attention to details, the mission of Club Hood is to provide a superior quality event planning, catering and conference facility and service in the most courteous, timely and cost-effective manner while providing opportunities for personal and professional growth for its staff.

Greater Killeen BUSINESS QUARTERLY

COTTON PATCH CAFE · 254.771.3899 · Hours: Mon-Sat 11 am-10 pm, Sun 10:45 am-9 pm · cottonpatch.com · 3111 31st St. Temple 76502

The idea behind that first Cotton Patch Cafe was to create a community restaurant that offered great food made from scratch, served by caring folks who are part of your community. As the Cotton Patch Cafe reputation grows, more restaurants open, and each continues to foster pride in its community. Here in Killeen, we especially embrace that part of the Cotton Patch Cafe culture.

DOUBLESKY CATERING · 281.543.3414 · Hours: By request · doubleskycatering.com

We bring our kitchen to you! Using our full-service mobile kitchen, we cook all food on-site to ensure it's fresh on every plate whether your event is for 50 or 450+ people. We will help walk you through the process of selecting what works best for your venue, and within your budget. Contact us now to discuss your catering needs!

FIREHOUSE SUBS · 254.680.3473 · Hours: Daily 10:30 am-9 pm · firehousesubs.com · 1000 Lowes Blvd. Killeen TX 76543

Specializing in hot subs, Firehouse Subs serves large portions of premium meats and cheeses, “steamed” hot and placed atop fresh produce on a toasted sub roll. Each restaurant offers a family-oriented dining atmosphere, complete with an authentic firefighter theme that celebrates local firefighting history, as well as the founding family’s decades of firefighting service.

HALLMARK RESTAURANT · 254.526.6050 · Hours: 24 hours/day · 4402 E. Centex Expy. Killeen TX 76543

With more than 25 years of experience, we offer a wide variety of home-cooked foods at reasonable prices. We are open 24 hours and run specials for every meal. Discounts are available for all military, police and firefighters in uniform. So let us do the cooking and enjoy yourself! We've been voted the Best of CenTex in the Comfort Foods Category and Among the Best in the Breakfast Category in the Killeen Daily Herald's Readers Poll.

FRY'S RESTAURANT · 254.933.0000 · Hours: Mon-Sat 8 am-9 pm, Sun 8 am-3 pm · frysrestaurant.com · 802 S. Main St. Belton TX 76540 Fry's is a quaint restaurant with good old fashioned home cooked meals. Reasonable prices and a family friendly atmosphere make Fry's the ideal spot for your next meal! Online ordering is available.

Greater Killeen BUSINESS QUARTERLY

K T R A D I T I O N A L FA R E H-E-B FOOD STORE · 254.526.9674 · Hours: Mon-Sun 5am-1am · heb.com · 2511 Trimmier Road Killeen TX 76541

H-E-B began with one store in 1905, nestled in Kerrville in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. We've always believed in the value of hard work and the importance of taking care of people, and we've always dreamed big. We hire great people, offer customers the best service and sell only the freshest, safest products. Moreover, we always look for great products for today and tomorrow, and make sure to give customers low prices with the best value.

K T R A D I T I O N A L FA R E AKIRA'S SCRATCH ELEVATED BISTRO · 254.213.1569 · Hours: Mon-Thur 8 am-4 pm, Fri & Sat 8 am-12 am, Sun 8 am-2 pm · www.facebook.com/akirasltk/ · 224 E Ave. D Killeen TX 76541

“The newly opened Scratch Elevated Bistro in downtown Killeen blends an ambience of urban sophistication with a variety of freshly made food that cannot be easily categorized. From stuffed French toast, homemade soups and burgers to tuna ceviche and steak tacos, co-owners Robert Cavazos and Melissa Sandoval have selected the dishes and the décor to reflect their own eclectic tastes.” — Dillion, Tex Appeal

Greater Killeen BUSINESS QUARTERLY

SHILO INN SUITES HOTEL & SHILO RESTAURANT · 254.699.0999 · Hours: Daily 5-9 pm; Bar: Sun-Thur 3-10 pm, Fri & Sat 3-11 pm; Cigar Bar: Sun-Thur 3-10 pm, Fri & Sat 3-11 pm · shiloinns.com · 3701 S. WS Young Dr. Killeen TX 76542

Nothing is better than the combination of great food, excellent service and convenience. The Shilo Restaurant, full-service bar and Killeen’s only Cigar Bar are all located in the east wing of the hotel. Chef Matt Cranfill was the Top Chef Winner at the 2015 Flavors of Central Texas. We serve a variety of Texas favorites along with a wide-ranging selection of classic American dishes your whole family will enjoy. Walk-ins are always welcome, but feel free to make a reservation or opt for room service delivery by dialing extension 370 from your in-room phone.

SAM'S CLUB #6245 · 254.415.4885 · Hours: Mon-Sat 7 am-10 pm for Plus and Business members; 10 am-8:30 pm for Savings members; Sun 10 am-6 pm · samsclub.com · 600 W Central Texas Expy. Harker Heights TX 76548

Sam's Club is a membership wholesale club, offering superior products and services at outstanding values. Catering to individuals and businesses alike, your annual Sam's Club membership pays for itself through exclusive members-only savings. From dry goods to fresh produce and meat, Sam's Club has everything you need for your restaurant or catering business. Also, our cafe is open at 10 am daily, offering pretzels, hot dogs, and various seasonal menu items. Try our delicious pizza in club or take & bake at home. Life is better in the Club!

K STEAKHOUSE LOGAN’S ROADHOUSE · 254.699.5724 · Hours: Sun-Thur 11 am to 10 pm, Fri-Sat 11 am-11 pm · logansroadhouse.com · 3100 E. Central Texas Expy. Killeen TX 76542

We grill up sizzling Southern-inspired flavor using time-honored recipes we’ve collected and perfected over time. From the inviting aromas of our wood-fired grilled steaks to our delicious from-scratch dishes with seasonings you can see, we know how to bring out food’s true flavor. And when you pair our food with an ice-cold beer or our handcrafted Roadhouse Tea, you’ll understand why Logan’s Roadhouse is much more than a restaurant.

TEXAS LAND & CATTLE · 254.699.5500 · Hours: Sun-Thur 11 am-10 pm, Fri-Sat 11 am-11 pm txlc.com · 3403 E. Central Texas Expy. Killeen TX 76543

At Texas Land & Cattle our work is our passion. We believe in bringing it all to the table and creating a dining experience that makes each meal special and every taste inspired. From sourcing local Texas ingredients to adding a twist to familiar favorites, the difference you'll find here is craft. Texas Land & Cattle won Best Appetizer at the 2015 Flavors of Central Texas. The craft of caring as much about the doing as the done. That's Texas Craft Dining. We hope you enjoy it.

K BAKERY PINK TULIPS CAKERY · 254.338.5318 · Hours: By Appointment Only · pinktulipscakery.com · 416 Arapaho Drive Harker Heights TX 76548

SWEET EATS BAKERY · 254.628.0497 · 1010 W. Jasper Drive Ste. 12 Killeen TX 76542

WORKS OF ART CAKES · · · ·

254.554.8500 Hours: Tues-Fri 12-6 pm, Sat 10 am-3 pm worksofartcakes.com 308 N. Fort Hood Street Killeen TX 76541

Pink Tulips Cakery can satisfy your sweet tooth and make your cake dreams come true. Founded in 2015, we specialize in custom designed, made-to-order cakes. Pink Tulips Cakery won Best Dessert and Best Decorated Booth at the 2015 Flavors of Central Texas. Allow us to indulge your taste buds with mini-snacks and cake balls to enjoy while watching the big game, delicious 3D cakes for birthdays, and one-of-kind masterpieces for those special “I do and I’d do it all again” times in your life.Let us transform those moments in your life into something truly memorable with sweet treats designed especially for you!

We’re baking for the love of it! Sweet Eats is home to your favorite custom-designed cakes for any occasion. We specialize in building customizable cakes and baked dessert options for weddings, birthdays, and company functions. Give us three to four weeks and we’ll give you the cake you've been dreaming about slicing into.

A specialty cake is not just a cake, it is a symbol of the celebration of a person or special event—a tangible, tasty and beautiful represenation of a significant milestone. Our goal is to make you feel like family and learn what is important to you and your event. When we craft your cake, it is custom designed to make your visions come to life. From modern to classic, shabby chic to eclectic, we can design the cake of your dreams. Feel free to stop by and visit with our family so we can make your next occasion spectacular!

K I TA L I A N OLIVE GARDEN ITALIAN KITCHEN · 254.699-2709 · Hour: Sun-Thur 11 am-10 pm, Fri & Sat 11 am-11 pm · olivegarden.com · 2811 E. Central Texas Expy. Killeen 76543

We are a family of more than 800 local restaurants guided by a simple truth – life is better when we’re together. And what better way for us to celebrate togetherness than sharing Italian generosity with you, your family, and your friends who feel like family? From heartwarming Italian classics, to lighter Italian fare, to our unlimited soup, salad and breadsticks, we serve our guests delicious food that feeds everyone’s appetite. We invite you to pull up a chair and let the sharing, the passing and the laughter begin. Because, like Italians, we believe that things like joy, laughter and love, have no limits.

Greater Killeen BUSINESS QUARTERLY

K BAR-B-QUE BIG HOSS BAR-B-QUE & CATERING

BONES CRACKED RIB

· 254.702.8243 · Hours: Fri 4-9 pm, Sat 11 am-9 pm, Sun 11 am-7 pm · bighossbbq.com · 9502 East Trimmer Rd. Killeen 76542

· 254.213.4750 · Hours: Mon-Sat 11 am-9 pm, Sun 11 am-7 pm · bonescrackedribsbbq.com · 3401 W. Stan Schlueter Lp. Killeen 76549

· 254.953.0081 · Hours: Mon- Thur 7 am-10 pm, Fri & Sat 7 am-10:30 pm, Sun 7 am-10 pm · rudysbbq.com · 5621 E Central Texas Expy. Killeen 76543

We’re a Texan barbeque catering company offering the best uniquely blended barbecue sauce, brisket, chicken and ribs along with all the fixings you’ve come to expect from barbecue masters. Our catering team can help ensure that your next event is a success. We provide service for corporate luncheons and parties, military functions, receptions, outdoor events and more. We offer three methods of delivery: catered, served buffet-style in a casual setting with big down home heavy-duty plastic plates; drop-off delivery; and pick-up orders.

Whether from Tennessee, Texas, Georgia, Louisiana or the Carolinas, Southern barbecue is the sweetest and most sultry taste around. Complete with all the fixins, the Southern comfort food at Bones Cracked Rib is sure to satisfy any appetite. We have served Central Texas for more than five years. You'll never forget your first time. You'll be back for more! Voted Best barbecue in Central Texas.

Rudy’s prides itself on bringing you fresh, quality Texas barbecue without skimping on the flavor. Offering the best in brisket, sausage, turkey, ribs, chicken and porkloin, we have your taste buds covered. Plus, with our assorted gift baskets and famous sauce, we provide a Texas barbecue experience residents trust. And with locations scattered throughout the southwest and an online store, you can enjoy Texas barbeque anywhere! Free shipping on orders more than $125!

K HAWAIIAN

K BAR-B-QUE TEXAS GRILL BARBEQUE & CRAB SHACK · 254.519.1300 · Mon-Thur 11 am-9 pm, Fri 12 pm-10 pm, Sat 12-9 pm · 110-B W Veterans Memorial Blvd. Harker Heights 76548

Texas Grill is a full service BBQ & Seafood restaurant. Full bar available. We serve a variety of dishes from catfish to gumbo, steaks, burgers, wings, pasta, Cajun cuisine, BBQ ribs & brisket, fresh salads and more. Catering and banquet facilities available. All of our food is made from scratch fresh daily. Come out and enjoy a quality home cooked meal without the work. Celebrate your special events here with us or pick up BBQ & Catfish by the pound to go. Dine-in or carry out. Lunch and dinner specials daily. Happy Hour from 4 to 7 p.m Monday through Friday with half off appetizers and drink specials daily.

RUDY’S COUNTRY STORE & BAR-B-QUE

Greater Killeen BUSINESS QUARTERLY

DICKEY'S BARBEQUE PIT · · · ·

254.212.4520 Hours: Open Daily 11 am-9 pm dickeys.com 1100 Lowes Blvd. Killeen 76542

In 1941, Travis Dickey opened the first Dickey's Barbecue Pit in Dallas, Texas. The menu was limited to beef brisket, pit hams, barbecue beans, potato chips, beer, bottled milk and sodas. Today, every location smokes all of their meats on-site at the restaurant the same way it was done in 1941.

C&H HAWAIIAN GRILL · 254.554.7755 · Hours: Mon-Sat 10:30 am-7:30 pm · chhawaiiangrill.com · 903 E. Rancier Ave. Killeen 76541

Hawaii is known for its beautiful sunsets, tropical weather and friendly " Aloha" spirit as well as its blend of multicultural cuisines. C & H Hawaiian Grill is dedicated to bringing you the best Hawaiian dining experience by serving a delicious selection of "plate lunch" foods and American cuisine, with exceptional service in a beautiful and comfortable atmosphere. We believe in serving large portions of high quality food at reasonable low price. "Ono" means "delicious" in Hawaiian, and our food says it all!

K BURGER McDONALD’S · 254.200.0650 · Open 24 Hours · mcstate.com/35878 · 4622 S Ft. Hood St. Killeen 76542

Since 1955, McDonald’s has been proud to serve the world some of its favorite food. And along the way, we’ve managed not just to live history, but create it: from drivethru restaurants to Chicken McNuggets to college credits from Hamburger U and much more. It’s been quite the journey, and we promise this is just the beginningwe’ve got our hearts set on making more history with you right here in Killeen.

K BURGER WHATABURGER #928 · · · ·

(254) 526-0225 Open 24 Hours whataburger.com 2509 Trimmier Rd. Killeen 76542

More than six decades ago, an adventurous and determined entrepreneur named Harmon Dobson had a bold idea: to serve a burger so big that it took two hands to hold and so good that after a single bite customers couldn't help but exclaim, “What a burger!” Today, each and every Whataburger® is still made to order—when it's ordered. We still use 100% pure beef and serve it on a big, toasted five-inch bun. We still greet our customers with a smile 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

FREDDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD AND STEAKBURGERS · 254.501.4506 · Hours: Sun-Thur 10:30 am-10 pm, Fri & Sat 10:30 am-11pm · freddysusa.com · 3811 Clear Creek Rd. Killeen 76549

Enjoying great food without a long wait doesn’t mean your meal has to be cooked before you order it. From sandwiches to sundaes, Freddy’s makes food fresh after you ask for it because that’s the kind of quality you deserve. Take a moment to catch up with friends and family, it’s almost time to eat!

K PIZZA DOMINO’S

FUDDRUCKERS · 254.699.7700 · Hours: Mon-Fri 9 am-10 pm, Fri & Sat 11 am-11 pm · fuddruckers.com · 2301 E Central Texas Expy. Ste. 106 Killeen 76543

Fuddruckers in Killeen is expert at catering parties, meetings, weddings, anniversaries and other special events in their great big party rooms or at a location of your choosing. Talk to the manager to customize your menu for boxed lunches, party platters and Build Your Own Burger parties.

K FOOD TRUCKS OL, TILLEY’S EATS & TREATS

· 254.526.9446 · Hours: Sun-Thur 10 am-12 am Fri-Sat 10 am-1 am; Carryout Sun-Sat 10 am-9:45 pm · dominos.com · 901 N. 10th St. Killeen 76541

· 832.876.5940 · Facebook: search OlTilleys Eats and Treats

Founded in 1960, Domino's is the recognized world leader in pizza delivery operating a network of company-owned and franchiseowned stores in the United States and international markets. Domino's vision illustrates a company of exceptional people on a mission to be the best pizza delivery company in the world. We’re committed to providing Killeen’s best pizza delivery experience, so give us a call and we’ll show you why.

Ol, Tilley's Eats & Treats food truck serves barbecue that will take you back to the family barbecues you remember as a kid. The mouthwatering grilled chicken, ribs, hamburgers, links and chops are perfect wtih our sweet corn for hot plate lunch or dinner. Ol, Tilley's is the best mobile eatery in town so check us out on Facebook to find our location.

Greater Killeen BUSINESS QUARTERLY

K DINERS/DELIS McALISTER’S DELI OF KILLEEN

SCHLOTZSKY’S SANDWICH SHOP

· 254.519.3354 · Hours: Sun-Thur 10:30 am-9:30 pm, Fri & Sat 10:30 am-10 pm · mcalistersdeli.com · 1908 E Central Texas Expressway Killeen 76541

Founded in 1898, Ridgeland, Mississippi-based McAlister’s Deli is a quick-casual restaurant chain known for its sandwiches, spuds, soups, salads, desserts and McAlister’s Famous Sweet Tea. In addition to dine-in and take-out service, McAlister’s also offers casual catering, with a selection of deli and sandwich trays, vegetable, cheese and fruit trays, breakfast trays, box lunches and desserts.

· 254.554.5550 · Hours: Mon-Sun 10 am-9 pm · schlotzskys.com · 902 W Central Texas Expy. Killeen 76541

In 1971, a small restaurant on South Congress Avenue in Austin was home to a single, one-of-a-kind sandwich—The Original®. Now, more than 40 years later, Schlotzsky’s is still using the highest quality ingredients to make the world’s best sandwich. You can also enjoy fresh baked bread, delicious hot sandwiches, Artisan flatbreads, specialty pizzas, toasted wraps, freshly tossed salads, gourmet soups and the one of a kind Cinnabon® Classic Roll! Dine in with friends and family or allow us to cater your next family gathering, meeting or event. From sandwich trays to box lunches, we make serving any size crowd fast and easy with delivery always being free! Schlotzsky’s. Every Bite Lotz Better!

K DINERS/DELIS BITE THE BAGEL DELI CAFE · 254.699.1502 · Hours: Mon-Fri 6 am-3 pm, Sat 7 am 3 pm, Sun 8 am-3 pm · facebook.com/BiteTheBagelDeliCafe · 480 FM 2410 Harker Heights 76548

Bite the Bagel Deli Café is a unique, quality oriented bakery-deli focused on providing affordable, fresh-baked products; quality and health conscious sandwiches, salads, desserts and coffee.

Greater Killeen BUSINESS QUARTERLY

JASON’S DELI · 254.690.7888 · Hours: Everyday 8 am-10 pm · jasonsdeli.com · 3213 E Central Texas Expy. Ste. 200 Killeen 76543

Jason’s Deli stands for three simple concepts: PEOPLE, FOOD and CHOICE serving fresh food made with premium and more natural ingredients. Jason's Deli was the first major restaurant concept to ban artificial transfats in the United States and also the first to eliminate high fructose corn syrup. Jason's Deli won Best Appetizer at the 2015 Flavors of Central Texas. If you'd rather have the deli deliver or you have a big event planned, contact our Killeen deli at 254.690.7888 or (fax 254.690.7676) instead.

K ASIAN JERSEY MIKE'S SUB'S · · · ·

254.554.8500 Hours: Mon-Sun 10 am-9 pm · jerseymikes.com 3007 E. Central Texas Expy. Ste. 103 Killeen 76543

Everything about Jersey Mike’s is high quality. Our certified Angus Beef top rounds are trimmed and cooked right in the store. Our meats and cheeses are all top-quality premium brands. Our bread is fresh-baked each day on the premises. And of course, everything’s prepared right in front of you.

TAIWAN DRAGON · 254.526.2299 · Hours: Mon - Fri 11 am-9 pm · taiwandragon.com · 308 E Ave. G Killeen 76541

We are one of Killeen’s oldest family-owned and operated Chinese restaurants! For more than 30 years, we’ve been perfecting our large menu of unique, yet familiar Szechuan- and Hunan-style cuisine. We’re situated in the heart of downtown Killeen and it is here that we’ve built a legacy that lives in the hearts and minds of the Fort Hood community. Come in, take out or dine with us. Jackson Huang and the Taiwan Dragon family welcome you!

K SPORTS BAR & GRILL HARV’S SPORTS BAR AND GRILL AT HOLIDAY INN · 254.690.5511 · Hours: Breakfast Mon-Fri 6-9:30am; Dinner Mon-Sat 5-10 pm · forthoodhotel.com · 300 E Central Texas Expy. Killeen 76541

Embark on a casual dining experience at Harv's Sports Bar & Grill. Located on-site at Holiday Inn Killeen – Fort Hood, Harv's is easily accessible for Candlewood Suites Killeen guests via our shared parking lot. Comfort food, full bar and Kids Eat Free! Enjoy this convenient dining option within walking distance of numerous businesses and hotels. Stop by Harv's for an early breakfast buffet, sizzling Southwest specialties, classic American fare and a full bar to satisfy any craving. Don't want to miss the big game? Six oversized flat-screens are positioned throughout our cozy bar and lounge area. Room Service is also available from 6:30 am9:30 am and 5 pm-10 pm. Harv's Sports Bar & Grill Killeen restaurant welcomes you with a relaxed environment, fortifying menu and total convenience.

K WINE/PUBS STILLHOUSE WINE ROOM · 254.681.9463 · Hours: Tues-Thur 4-10 pm (or later), Fri & Sat 4 pm-12 am (or later) · stillhousewineroom.com · 403 E. Stan Schlueter Loop Ste. 308 Killeen 76542

Stillhouse Wine Room is a Central Texas Wine Room & Beer Pub also serving Hors D’Oeuvres. We are the answer to those elegantly casual nights where wine, friends and great food come together in perfect harmony. Once you have experienced Stillhouse Wine Room’s delightful menu, the warm, friendly staff and world-class wine selections, you will know why we have become one of the most popular meetings destinations in Central Texas. Let Stillhouse Wine Room show you the way the world of wine should be with New World attitude and Old World style.

TYKU WINE BAR & LOUNGE

TILTED KILT PUB & EATERY

· 254.554.8452 · Hours: Wed-Fri 4 pm-12 am, Sat 4 pm-1 am · facebook.com/tykuwinebarandlounge · 220 East Avenue D Killeen 76541

· 254.634.3663 · Hours: Thur-Sat 11am-2 am, Sun-Wed 11 am-12 am · tiltedkilt.com/locations/killeen · 2900 Central Texas Expy. Killeen 76543

Located in the newly renovated downtown Killeen, Tyku Wine Bar & Lounge is a live music venue, with private VIP rooms available upon request. Come see us for comedy night, open mic night, poetry night, swing dance classes and more. Tyku Wine Bar and Lounge is the place for those in search of a touch of class in the Killeen.

Welcome to Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery, where good times are always on tap. That’s because we’re more than just a restaurant, and so much more than a sports bar. Our fun, festive atmosphere makes us the go-to place to watch sports, enjoy a cold beer and hang out with friends. We offer a delicious, mouth-watering menu, more than 30 draft and bottled beers to choose from and an extensive spirit selection. All this plus year-round, nonstop pro and college sports action on all of our HD screens.

Greater Killeen BUSINESS QUARTERLY

K SOUTHERN MAMA’S SOUL · 254.319.8547 · Hours: Mon-Fri 9 am-6 pm, Sat 9 am- 2 pm · mamasoulcatering.com

Mama's Soul provides high quality Southern-style catering with full service concessions and event consulting. Established in 2005, Mama’s Soul is operated by retired military veterans with more than 22 years of experience in logistics and a vast knowledge of the practice and understanding of planning, organizing, supervising and managing events. We serve small and medium catering venues throughout Central Texas. We’ll make your next event special by providing the most delicious food and exceptional service. Our clients tell us that we’re the most professional and reliable caterers they have used, as we always put extreme emphasis on taking care of every little detail. Nobody does it better.

K MEXICAN EL CHICO RESTAURANT

LET US DO THE COOKING · 254.554.COOK (2665) · Hours: By appointment · letusdothecooking.com

We are Killeen’s full-service catering company ready to accommodate any group or event. Whether you’re hosting 10 people at your home or 2,000 at the lake, we’ve got you covered. Our experienced staff will make sure that you and your guests are able to relax and enjoy every aspect of your event. Whether that’s for a barbecue or a black tie affair, “Let Us” take care of it for you. We’ve been privileged to be nominated “The Best”/Business Lunch for 2013 and “Among the Best”/Caterers for the last five years by the Killeen Daily Herald readers. We’ve also taken home several awards in 2011, 2012 including: “Best Food” at the Taste of Central Texas, and “Best Entree,” “Best Side” and “Best Overall” at the Flavors of Central Texas. In 2013 we took home five of the six awards offered at Flavors of Central Texas to include our 1st Top Chef win! We look forward to serving YOU very soon!

GEECHIE'S SOUTHERN STYLE RESTAURANT · 254.616.2444 · Hours: Mon, Tue & Thu 11 am-8 pm, Wed 11 am-6 pm, Fri 11 am-9 pm, Sun 12-6 pm · Facebook: search Geechies Southern StyleRestaurant · 2904 E. Stan Schlueter Lp. Ste. C-303 Killeen 76542

Geechie’s Southern Style Restaurant brings a taste of the coastal sea islands of South Carolina to Killeen. The restaurant is family owned and operated by retired Army veteran Jerry Lewis Moore Sr., Executive Chef and CEO, and wife Latanya White-Moore, COO. His three daughters also pitch in to help at the restaurant when they are not in school.

K COFFEE/TEA/SWEETS STARBUCKS COFFEE COMPANY

THE SWEET FACTORY

· 254.634.0501 · Hours: Sun-Thus 11 am-10pm, Fri & Sat 11 am-11 pm · elchico.com · 1701 E Central Texas Expy. Killeen 76541

· 254.634.6434 · Hours: Sun-Thur 5 am-10 pm, Fri & Sat 5 am-11 pm · starbucks.com · 1033 S. Fort Hood St. Killeen 76541

· 254.616.1975 · Hours: Tues-Sat 11:30 am-8 pm · Facebook.com/thesweetfactorytx · 2201 W. Stan Schlueter Loop Killeen 76549

A Mexican food tradition since 1940 has grown into more than 75 restaurants, including more than 25 franchise locations. The El Chico story began when Adelaida Cuellar’s homeade tamales drew huge crowds at a small county fair in 1926. Her sons opened a cafe in Dallas, following their mother’s recipes for enchiladas with chile con carne sauce. Today, El Chico is still serving top-quality Mexican food favorites with fresh new specialties of today.

Our coffee houses have become a beacon for coffee lovers everywhere. Why do they insist on Starbucks? Because they know they can count on genuine service, an inviting atmosphere and a superb cup of expertly roasted and richly brewed coffee every time. It’s not unusual to see people coming to Starbucks to chat, meet up or even work. We’re a neighborhood gathering place, a part of the daily routine, and we couldn’t be happier about it. Get to know us and you’ll see: we are so much more than what we brew.

We offer cupcakes, cheesecakes, parfaits and other small desserts like jelly beans and chocolates. We also have hand-dipped ice cream served in cups or in our own specialty cones, made on the premises.

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K V E G E TA R I A N / V E G A N SO NATURAL ORGANIC RESTAURANT & MARKET · 254.245.8571 · Hours: Mon-Thur & Sat 11 am-8 pm, Closed Fri & Sun will open for private parties · sonaturalmarket.com · 706 Edwards Dr. Ste. G Harker Heights 76548

Our goal is to provide Killeen with the highest quality organic and natural foods available. We do this by supporting local gardeners, farmers and ranchers whenever possible. So Natural Organic Restaurant & Market (SNORM) is family-owned and specializes in GMO Free, Comfort Foods, Paleo Diet, Gluten Free Options, Vegetarian/Vegan Options, Juice & Smoothie Bar, Healthy Meals on the go and more. Our food is prepared and cooked from scratch here on the premises. Stop by our restaurant and market if you’re looking for healthy organic and natural foods. Our market consists of hard to find packaged goods. Catering and delivery available.

PUREFIT FOODS · 254.699.0334 · Hours: Mon-Fri 7 am-8 pm, Sat 9 am-6 pm, Sun 10 am-6 pm · purefitfoods.com · 1103 W. Veterans Memorial Blvd. Killeen 76541

At Pure Fit Foods, our passion is to change lives one meal at a time. We offer our customers a food alternative that is not only healthy, but most importantly, tastes great! We feature perfectly portioned, pre-packaged meals, using only the freshest ingredients.

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Starting

from Scratch: Akira's Scratch Elevated Bistro opened its doors in January 2015 at Ave D and Gray St. in historic downtown Killeen. If you go…

Akira's Scratch Elevated Bistro 224 E Ave D Killeen 76541 254.213.1569 www.facebook.com/akirasltk

Hours: Tuesday-Thursday: 11 am to 3 pm 5 to 9 pm Friday: 8 am to 3 pm | 5 to 11 pm Saturday: 8 am to 11 pm Sunday: 8 am-4 pm

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Owners Robert Cavazos and Melissa Sandoval say they weren’t even looking to open a business when they discovered the building and fell in love with it. The building, first constructed in 1897 as a two story retail structure, has housed drug stores, cafes and even an opera house through the years. When Robert and Melissa first signed the lease in February 2014, the building had been vacant for some time. Initially unsure of what to do with the space, they soon decided to open a restaurant, given Melissa’s past experience and training in culinary arts. The next step was selecting the concept. Robert and Melissa decided the restaurant would start out as a daytime dining option during the week and stay open later on Friday and Saturday. The sit down restaurant can seat up to 50 people inside and 20 outside, serving lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday; breakfast, lunch and dinner Friday and Saturday; and breakfast and lunch Sunday. The eatery also features a full-service bar every day, which is open until 11 pm Friday and Saturday. In addition to the restaurant, Scratch caters offsite events and will open after hours for private parties. Future plans for expansion include

A New Downtown Dining Experience

renovating the second story to make it available for private events. The couple is also open to extending their hours in the future. The owners envisioned their eatery to have an urban feel and a menu offering options different from anything else in the area. Deciding on menu items was relatively easy. The couple selected dishes they liked to eat and added their own flair. Melissa created house favorites such as the Whole Hog Omelet (sausage, bacon, chorizo, ham and cheddar) and Nutella Stuffed French Toast (homemade bread stuffed with Nutella, topped with bananas and walnuts). She decided all menu items would be made fresh when the customer orders them, hence the name “Scratch.” These unique, fresh food options set Scratch apart from other restaurants, establishing their reputation as a restaurant that offers a modern twist on all the classics. Turning the building into the venue they envisioned proved to be more challenging than developing the menu. As mentioned before, the building had seen many different uses through the years, and it was nowhere near restaurantready when Robert and Melissa discovered it. According to Robert, “the structure was essentially an empty shell when we signed the lease, but we could see the potential. We were able to keep the original tin ceiling and concrete floors on the first floor, but everything else inside is new.” The biggest challenges were installing the electric hood and AC system. It took almost a year of hard work and persistence

to realize their vision, but they never gave up, and the investment paid off. Scratch’s unique ambiance and flair for fresh, quality food has made it a destination downtown dining spot. Scratch features live local music outdoors (weather permitting) most Friday and Saturday evenings with no cover charge.

The restaurant has recently started an event called First Friday’s, which is essentially a block party featuring vendors in addition to the live music. They started First Fridays partly to attract customers to the venue but also as a way to help promote downtown Killeen. Robert is passionate about downtown revitalization and already has his eye on other properties he would like to

renovate. “I believe it is important to invest in downtown because it’s a reflection of

our history and it's the heart of our town,” Robert explains. “We as Killeen residents can't forget where this town started. We can't forget old Killeen, because that is a direct reflection for what new Killeen is and will become.”

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Local Map of Featured Restaurants

E3 1

3A1

1 11

5 11

1 2

21 J4 2 32 G3C 42 1124 31 L 1 I

F 5

K 1 1 H

NOT LISTED

(No Retail Location)

* DoubleSky Catering * Mama’s Soul * Let Us Do The Cooking

F L AV O R S O F C E N T R A LT E X A S .O R G T R A D I T I O N A L FA R E

BAKERY

BURGERS

SPORTS BAR & GRILL

A Akira's Scratch Elevated

1 Pink Tulips Cakery

Bistro

2 Sweet Eats

1 Freddy’s Frozen Custard and Steakburgers

1 Harv’s Sports Bar & Grill at Holiday Inn

B Arboniche’s Fine Catering

3 Works of Art Cakes

C Chick-fil-A D Classic Catering and Rentals E Club Hood F Cotton Patch Cafe

ITALIAN

BARBEQUE

G Firehouse Subs

2 Bones Cracked Ribs

H Fry's Restaurant

3 Dickey's Barbeque Pit

I Hallmark Restaurant

4 Rudy’s Country Store & Bar-B-Que

L Shilo Inn Suites Hotel & Shilo

Restaurant Fry's Restaurant

STEAKHOUSE

4 Whataburger #928 PIZZA

* DoubleSky Catering

K Sam’s Club #6245

3 McDonald’s

1 Olive Garden

1 Big Hoss BBQ & Catering

J HEB Food Store

2 Fuddruckers

5 Texas Grill Barbeque & Crab Shack

1 Domino’s FOOD TRUCKS 1 Ol, Tilley’s Eats & Treats DINERS/DELIS 1 Bite the Bagel Deli Cafe 2 Jason’s Deli

HAWAIIAN

3 Jersey Mike's Subs

1 C&H Hawaiian Grill

4 McAlister’s Deli 5 Schlotzsky’s Sandwich Shop

1 Logan's Roadhouse 2 Texas Land & Cattle

ASIAN 1 Taiwan Dragon

WINE/PUBS 1 Stillhouse Wine Room 2 Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery 3 Tyku Wine Bar & Lounge SOUTHERN 1 Geechie's Southern Style Restaurant * Let Us Do The Cooking * Mama’s Soul MEXICAN 1 El Chico Restaurant COF F E E/T E A/SW E ETS 1 Starbucks Coffee Company 2 The Sweet Factory V E GETA R I A N/V E GA N 1 PureFit Foods 2 So Natural Organic Restaurant & Market

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For more information about any of these programs, contact Debra Knudson-Picknell, at 254-526-1515 or debra.knudson@ctcd.edu

Central Texas College Offers a variety of hospitality career training options BY BRUCE VASBINDER, Community Relations & Marketing, Central Texas College

Main Campus

The Central Texas College (CTC) Hospitality program offers an Associate in Applied Science degree (60 credit hours) in the areas of restaurant and culinary management, food and beverage management and hotel management. The Culinary Arts program also offers Certificates of Completion (20 to 37 credit hours) in the areas of restaurant and culinary management, culinary arts, food and beverage management, restaurant operations and institutional food services. Courses for both degree and certificate programs include Basic Food Preparation, Nutrition for the Food Service Professional, Fundamentals of Baking, Garde Manger, Saucier and American Regional Cuisine.

Students gain “real world” experience and a complete understanding of all facets of restaurant management The newly remodeled culinary labs and kitchen provide a professional instructional environment for CTC culinary students. Each class provides hands-on learning in addition to classroom lecture. Students gain “real world” experience and a complete understanding of all facets of restaurant management from the kitchen to the front of the house through Patio Café dinner nights, a variety of cooking competitions and participation in a variety of community culinary events including Flavors of Central Texas. Students in the American regional

Chef Tige Brooks begins the presentation phase for his team’s entrée before serving the dish to the judges during the CTC Iron Chef competition.

and international cuisine classes host Patio Café dinners every other Friday during the fall and spring semesters. The students are tasked with selecting a cuisine for each dinner then creating the menu and preparing each dish of each menu. Students are assigned different jobs every week such as head chef, sous chef, working the dessert line and other food preparation duties. Students are also assigned jobs such as servers and dish washers to give them a wellrounded, hands-on experience in the kitchen. Near the end of each semester, CTC culinary students participate individually or in teams in the CTC version of the TV reality cooking shows Chopped and Iron Chef. In both contests, students are given ingredients and a time limit in which to prepare an appetizer, entrée and dessert. Their creations are then judged by local culinary experts. Students in the baking and cake decorating classes also compete in baking contests and cake decorating contests based on an assigned theme, such as wedding or birthday cakes.

Fort Hood Campus

CTC also offers a food management and culinary arts program at its Fort Hood campus utilizing eight-week semesters instead of the traditional 16 weeks. And like the program offered at the Killeen campus, it provides students with extensive exposure to all aspects of food preparation and restaurant management, including cost controls, supervisory skills, reporting requirements, safety and sanitation, and many other operational skills.

Dual Credit

High school juniors and seniors can get a jump start on their culinary careers through the CTC Hospitality Management dual credit program. Students in either the Killeen or Copperas Cove Independent School Districts can earn as many as 20 college credits toward a degree in hospitality management and complete one-third of their college education at no cost by the time they graduate high school. Students will also receive free use of textbooks and free transportation to and from CTC. t Greater Killeen BUSINESS QUARTERLY

Chew On This:

Big Hoss BBQ Offers a Variety of Dining Options for BBQ Lovers

BIG HOSS BBQ houses both Big Hoss Catering and The Settlement Restaurant. Located at 9502 EAST Trimmier Road in Killeen, Big Hoss was established in February 2005 and is owned and operated by Walter, Sheryl, and Kelly Brown, with charter teammate and kitchen manager James Jenkins. Big Hoss’ mission is to provide customers with a large quantity and quality of food as well as excellent service at a fair price.

HISTORY

Upon retiring from Civil Service, Walter saw a need for a company to cater to small parties of 75 people or fewer. With a solid mission, dedication and the help of key individuals and businesses, the catering company quickly grew to be able to accommodate parties greater than 2,500 people. Sheryl manages all catering and ensures that every event is a complete success for customers.

RESTAURANT

In 2006, Walter began building The Settlement Restaurant on Lovin’ Acres Ranch off of East Trimmier Road with the help of his family and friends, who are recognized throughout the facility. After three years of hard work, the restaurant opened in October 2009. Walter envisioned a restaurant that would emulate an Old West settlement, and indeed, when patrons enter the establishment they feel as though they have been transported back in time. Just outside the front door, guests find goats and alpacas grazing lazily in the neighboring field. The restaurant showcases antiques from the late 1800s to early 1900s. Each booth features a unique name and industry, so guests can eat at a booth in a church, school house, saloon, blacksmith shop and many other Old West locations.

FOOD TRUCK

In addition to their bricks and mortar location, Big Hoss also runs a Mobile Food Unit (MFU), or food truck, which is recognizable by the American flag painted on one side and the Texas flag on the other. The MFU can be seen around town at festivals hosted by churches and schools, the City of Killeen’s Food Truck Fridays and will be available on Fort Hood during the week for lunch.

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BARBECUE METHOD

The Big Hoss method of barbecuing allows the smoke from the wood, as well as the rubs, to become an ingredient, resulting in no creosote (very heavy smoke) or gas taste. Many factors go into creating great barbecue including: knowing and finding a quality cut of meat; knowing the smoker pit; preparation, slow cooking and resting of products, plus a lot of time and love.

concept at a time, make sure that you have it securely under control, plan and strategize your next adventure, and conquer it. Most importantly, you have to learn from your mistakes and always love what you are doing. If you don’t love what you are doing, don’t do it at all. We have a great team that loves their jobs, their customers and each other.” The Browns attribute their success:

GIVING BACK

Big Hoss staff goes to Fort Hood each month to serve free meals to soldiers at the USO and are present at “Welcome Home” ceremonies on Fort Hood to provide free meals to Families, Soldiers and Volunteers. They also partnered with the USO tragic events on Fort Hood to ensure that first responders and support teams were provided meals following these events. The Brown family considers their employees and community an extension of their own family and displays this by supporting several local organizations, including Relay for Life and the Killeen Free Clinic. They also provide a free meal annually on Sept. 11 to all first responders in Killeen, Harker Heights, Bell County and Triple 7. Big Hoss has reached beyond the local community to support the first responders in Bastrop during the devastating fires and first responders in West during the fertilizer plant explosion.

BALANCING MULTIPLE CONCEPTS Running a business that has several different platforms (catering, full-service restaurant, and a food truck) requires a great deal of dedication and organization. Kelly Brown explains, “The key to balancing a business with multi-concepts is to focus on one

1. OUR customers, who truthfully speak of their core values and the “Big Hoss” mission statement 2. The young staff (first-time job-seekers from our local high schools and universities) who provide friendly and efficient service to their customers and who share a passion for helping others 3. Honesty, integrity and mouthwatering, great tasting BBQ!

BIG HOSS BBQ & THE SET TLEMENT RESTAURANT

9502 E. TRIMMIER ROAD KILLEEN TX 76542 BIGHOSSBBQ.COM RESTAURANT: 254.699.4677 CATERING: 254.702.8243 The restaurant is open to the public Friday, Saturday and Sunday and for private events (business meetings, hail/farewells, sports banquets, etc) Monday through Thursday.

So You Want to

OPEN A RESTAURANT? BY AIMEÉ NESSE

pon asking 20 successful restaurateurs from around the country what they would say to someone who intends to open a restaurant, the tone was overwhelming. A common response was “Don’t!” However, don’t listen to the naysayers (completely). Think instead of all the delicious hole-in-the-walls, favorite date spots, destination brunch joints, and chain eateries that delight your palate. Now, what does it take to make that happen?

Before getting started, ask a few questions.

What’s in it for me? Why do you want to open a restaurant? Are you a great cook? Do you have a signature dish? Do people often tell you, “You should open a restaurant?”

Owning a restaurant, operating a business and being an excellent marketer are three totally different functions that need to work together in harmony in order for a restaurant to succeed. Lacking one could be the demise of your hopes and dreams and all the resources you invest into your eatery. Here are some words of advice from successful restaurant owners from Killeen and around the country:

during the span of several days to which you invite close friends and people who will give you constructive criticism. This might require handdelivered invitations and will be free for attendees to experience your ambiance and creations. • SPEND AS MUCH TIME on your marketing plan as you do your financial forecast. How do you attract your first customers? Do you know how much it costs to earn a loyal customer, not just a one-time customer, but an evangelist of your brand? Someone who will be will be effusive about their experience—from greeting to salutation. Add up how much it costs for your brick-and-mortar, signage, to turn the lights on, logos, glassware, tabletops, etc., and divide that by the number of customers you have. This is why as a restaurateur you will eat, what we call in the business, a lot of “crow.” • AFTER YOU CREATE YOUR “REALISTIC” BUDGET and forecast, rename that one “best

case scenario.” Then make a new realistic budget and a “worst case” budget. Make sure you have enough capital to survive in the worst case scenario. • EVERYTHING IS REAL ESTATE. Every little detail matters, and it’s the little things that will set you apart from other eateries. The moment your customer walks in your door, even if there is a wait, offer them a cocktail and place to stand. Your guest is happily waiting and taking in the ambiance, and your bartender or cocktail waitress could make a tip. Keep the bathrooms clean, the water glass full, and the soup hot at all times. As a proprietor of your eatery, you are the brand. Speak food. Be synonymous with being a host and purveyor of all things yummy. • PAY YOURSELF A FAIR WAGE for managing, cooking or whatever job you will do as owner. Don’t think you have to throw yourself under the bus. You and your family will probably forgo

• HAVE MORE CAPITAL on hand than you predicted. Whoever you present your business plan to (banker, investor, partner, etc) will double the amount you believe that you need and expect you to return soon for emergency capital as well. Your servers and bartenders cannot live on $2.13 an hour during the training and opening phases, so be prepared to pay them at least minimum wage and maybe a bit more. It’s more expensive to train a new employee than to keep a good one, so make sure you treat them right from the start. • CONSIDER PRE-OPENING COSTS like training and inventory for training. Depending on what kind of eatery you open, you will want your staff to sample each dish and many signature cocktails and wines. This process is very expensive. Additionally, you will probably want to hold a soft opening to train your staff. The soft opening is a multi-course meal served

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The Central Texas Business Resource Center (BRC) offers weekly workshops to assist aspiring entrepreneurs and is open for individual business counseling by appointment. For more information, call 254.200.2001. vacations and private schools for a while, but you will need them for support and love.

etc. Employees will come to work hungry, and customers will “borrow” and damage items. Waste and loss of product are inevitable so plan to have to make up for this.

• MAKE SURE STAFF IS TRAINED adequately before opening. Take the time you need. It’s better to build anticipation for your café and • WAIT 6 MONTHS TO ADD LUNCH, unless that have everyone in sync rather than fumble. It’s is your primary target market. Lunch will, most a dance. Staff should announce that they’re likely, provide the least amount of sales and be the coming around the corner with hot plates, move hardest on your servers as far as tips. nimbly, communicate effectively between the front of the house and the back of the house, • BE CAREFFUL WHAT YOU GIVE AWAY FOR FREE until you’ve repaid your investment. and all require servers to read the Food Lover’s A lot of community projects will be looking Companion. Your front line employees are the for sponsorships for events and a tray of your face of your business and a well-spoken server is delicious appetizers for their meeting. Choose an empowered employee. Educate your staff. wisely. • DON’T TRY TO BE EVERYTHING to everyone. • HAVE WARM, SINCERE, SMILEY CUSTOMER Do what you do. SERVICE. A restaurateur might say, “This is my • DON’T TAKE ON TOO HUGE OF A SPACE. place. I work for myself,” but the truth is, you That is fine for Cheesecake factory with live to serve. Pride will sink your ship faster corporate money. If you have to start small and than ignorance. Randy Rayburn, a successful be packed every night, so be it. restaurateur, says, “I’m the head busboy.” You are not solving the problem of world hunger or • HAVE A PROFESSIONAL BOOKKEEPER. This curing cancer so acting superior will never serve cannot be stressed enough. Do not comingle your customers better than the eatery down the your personal money with your restaurant’s street. The thing your restaurant has that no expenses. It will wreak havoc when it comes time other place has is you. Remember that. to pay your taxes, and a great accountant will help you write off many things you hadn’t considered. • THINK BIG, BUT START SMALL. Don’t have 150 beers on your menu right off the bat or 30 • DON’T FORGET TO BUDGET for linens, dishes on your menu. Do what you do really breakage, replacement of furniture, remodels,

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well and expand slowly. Earn the trust of your customers by hitting the mark daily on what they come to expect. • ENGAGE IN SOCIAL MEDIA DAILY. Don’t just tell your customers why to choose your eatery over another. Show them! Make them salivate and count the hours until their reservation. Have a real website that customers can use to make reservations, see your space, peruse your menus and redirect them to the social media for reviews. • BAD REVIEWS. Should you throw a temper tantrum when you get one? No. You will get one. Bad reviews are an opportunity to build a bridge and get over yourself and the circumstance. Your customer probably expected to have a perfect anniversary experience or a night away from the kids. Be an active listener and a gracious host when those bad reviews roll in. • HAVE AN EXIT STRATEGY before you begin. Proper planning is integral. • LISTEN TO YOUR STAFF. Love your staff. They will become your family. You will spend more time with your staff than your actual family at times.

May the work you have, be the work you love. Cheers!

Yo ur business partner ONLINE BUSINESS DIRECTORY AT KILLEENCHAMBER .COM

ADVERTISE W ITH US

C ALL 254.526.9551

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data services The Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce can help you build and launch targeted, multichannel marketing campaigns at a fraction of the cost of previously available solutions.

Professional vi deo servi ce for your busi ness The Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce is offering video services for our members. Video is a powerful tool on your website and social media to attract new customers. Let us help you tell your story online.

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Coupons The Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce will market your special offers through our online coupon system for members. We also promote these offers in our e-newsletters and social media pages.

Job L i sti ngs The Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce will help you find the right people for your team. We will post your job listings on our website and refer to this list for people who inquire about jobs in the community.

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