March 6, 2025
I’m not sure whether I enjoyed the food or the people more at Old Mill Tasty Shop in Downtown Wichita at 604 E. Douglas Ave.
I saw Old Mill Tasty Shop was having gumbo as well as a special Muffalata sandwich to celebrate Fat Tuesday. Okay…let’s be honest. I didn’t actually see it. But it pays to be friends with Fert The Foodie. He’s the real deal (helluva lot more knowledgeable than me…serious) and he texted me about it.
I ate all my food. All of it. It was fantastic. The gumbo — some of the best I’ve had in Wichita. Sandwich and beans were also excellent.
But the people? Man.
Gail was my server. She’s been working alongside one of her best friends (the co-owner, Mary) for 42 years. And she is as upbeat as all get out. She has some smart comments too and I loved it. Told me not to eat the toothpicks holding my sandwich in place.
And her friend Mary has owned this restaurant since 1982. For those bad at math, that’s 43 years. Now she co-owns it with her son Don. The restaurant has been around since 1932. And if I understand it right, Mary’s family is the second owner. Incredible…during a 93-year span and counting. By the way, Mary was so happy to hear that I loved her gumbo. Genuinely.
I was a bit disappointed the place wasn’t busier. I had not made it there in almost two years and figured it would be packed. As you can see, it was not. Gail told me parking is such a problem for so many of their customers. I get it. But it’s some damn good food, from some damn good people.
— TKG. Out.
