A new restaurant plans to open in the old Ed and Kay’s Restaurant building at 15228 Interstate 30 North in Benton. I drove by recently and noticed Oltman’s Roofing fixing the place up, so I called to see what they knew. They introduced me to Diana Young, the new restaurant owner, and she has some plans that locals should enjoy. Other than new roofing, renovations will include some blue siding that will change the exterior look of the property. The name “Blue Heaven” comes from this color change.
Young says they are “gutting” the inside, to make it all look new. There will also be a privacy fence added to the back of the property, so families can gather and play games like baggo there.
Along with the undeniable history of the Ed and Kay’s building, part of the experience will come from a long-time favorite in Little Rock. Some of the kitchen equipment came from the auction after the recent closing of Cajun’s Wharf on Cantrell Road in the Riverdale area.
In regards to the food, Young says it will still be home cooking but she wants to do something new while staying true to the past. “People have been asking for those old recipes like the chicken fried steak and of course the mile-high pies, so we’re bringing them back. But we also will add fresh options.” She says there will be more grilled items on the menu alongside the fried favorites.
In the future, there are plans for farm-to-table eats. “We have purchased the land next to the restaurant and we’ll have a garden there so customers can enjoy fresh vegetables with their meal,” stated Young.
It’s usually difficult for a new restaurant to pinpoint an opening date until they are much closer, but Young says she has been praying for it to be ready in four months. Maybe we will see Blue Heaven near Thanksgiving. I’ll keep us updated.
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Donna says
Hurrry‼️ We’re ready for good home cooking and delicious pies. 🥧
Ron Kettles says
What is the latest information on Blue Heaven Restaurant? I have a friend that wants to work there but does not know how to apply.
Shelli Poole says
They are still renovating. Probably not ready to hire. Keep watching for updates! 🙂
Jim says
Any update on blue heaven? Looks like construction has stopped.
Charlotte says
Hope they have a vegetarian choice.
blake staton says
great article Shelli Poole
Valerie says
I’m looking forward to a restaurant serving a “home cooking” menu that doesn’t have food that tastes as if it was just poured out of a tin can. I hope it serves breakfast too! Best wishes to Diana Young and the “Blue Heaven” Diner for much success! Welcome to Benton!!
Kathy says
I haven’t been in Benton long enough to know a location by what it used to be! Can I have an address? Thanks!
Shelli Poole says
Hi Kathy, the address is in the first sentence of the article. Thanks for reading!
Jerell says
I have been hopping someone would see the value in tthat location and reopen a diner.
Good luck to the new owners and best wishes for much success.