By Cindy Gladden, Record Staff Writer
The Infield Sports Bar in Marthasville officially closed Oct. 1, but not to disappoint the loyal customers, Duck’s Bar and Grill opened just days later.The popular bar and grill located at 16016 Highway 47, was built in 2006 by Bob Hase and Bonnie Borgmann.New owners Bret Wessel and Sara Clinton said they are excited about the future of Duck’s in Marthasville.“We talked about it for quite a while before we jumped into it,” said Wessel. “She’s (Sara) the backbone of it.”Clinton said she began waiting tables right out of high school and for 24 years she has worked at a variety of restaurants. Many locals may know her from her 10 years at the Gables in Marthasville.Wessel still works his full-time construction job and helps out in the evenings and on weekends.“Bret was raised here,” she said. “We know most of the people who come in.”The most-asked question for the new owners is why the restaurant is named Duck’s.“It’s Bret’s nickname,” said Clinton. “Not many know the reason why his family and friends call him that.”“Everyone has their own story,” added Wessel. “I just let it go and let them tell their story.”A grand opening celebration will be held this Saturday, Oct. 22, beginning at 2 p.m. Families are encouraged to visit early in the day while East Central College art students are available to paint faces.Free barbecued hot dogs and hamburgers will be available while supplies last from 2-6 p.m. An open jam session will be held from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.Duck’s menu will remain similar to the tried-and-true Infield selections, with a few additions. Clinton said their new “Quack Attack” burger is quickly gaining its own reputation.The burger includes a half-pound of hamburger, provel and cheddar cheese, bacon, onion straws, lettuce, tomato and pickles. It’s served on a full hoagie bun and is a challenge to finish.Desserts include Snickers, Oreo and turtle pies, with pumpkin and apple pies coming for the autumn season.The couple said the previous owners helped them a great deal during the transition time. Most of the 15 employees from the Infield have stayed on with Duck’s.Duck’s will still host the entertainment that was popular at the Infield. Not only can you choose daily dinner and sandwich specials, but you can try your hand at dartball, horseshoes, sand volleyball, karaoke or pool. Check the restaurant’s schedule for nights these activities are available.Clinton said the community is important to Duck’s and they plan on helping with community activities and fundraisers.Wessel and Clinton both said the best thing about the business is their customers and staff.“We like talking to people that come in,” said Clinton. “They become like family.”Look for Duck’s Bar and Grill on Facebook to find out about its events and daily specials.Bret Wrssel and Sara Clinton opened Duck's Bar and Grill on Oct. 4, in Marthasville. They purchased the Infield from Bob Hase and Bonnie Borgmann. A grand opening will be held Saturday, Oct. 22. Cindy Gladden photo.
