Tommy’s Restaurant In Cedar Rapids Has A New But Familiar Owner

If you're a longtime resident of Cedar Rapids, you've likely visited Tommy's Restaurant.

It's been in business for 55 years in different locations, including where it sits now, at 393 Edgewood Rd. NW. The restaurant has welcomed you in under new ownership as of the end of 2019.

Steve Baker began working at Tommy's as a dishwasher in the '90s. After some brief time away he was welcomed back. Now, he owns the place. He tells the Gazette he's excited to unveil the mural he's having painted to honor the restaurant's long, rich legacy. That unveiling takes place at the restaurant on February 29.

As for the menu: breakfast, lunch, and dinner remain as Baker has worked to keep several Tommy's traditions intact while adding new features like tacos and healthier items to attract the gym-goers next door. Kids eat free Tuesdays and when they do, they're offered a fun art project to work on. Tommy's new owner has started to offer kids-themed parties and starting this weekend, the restaurant will stay open 24 hours Thursday to Saturday.

Baker has also set the lofty goal of opening 10 new locations in the next 10 years so other towns can experience the Tommy's tradition in their own backyard.