IN THE COUNTY LEGISLATURE OF JACKSON COUNTY, MISSOURI
Title
A RESOLUTION recognizing the 88th Anniversary of Jess & Jim's Steakhouse.
Intro
RESOLUTION NO. 22283, June 1, 2026
INTRODUCED BY Manuel Abarca IV, County Legislator
Body
WHEREAS, Jess & Jim's Steakhouse, located at 517 E 135th Street in Martin City, Missouri, celebrated its 88th anniversary in April 2026, marking 88 years since its founding on April 15, 1938; and,
WHEREAS, founded by best friends Jess Kincaid and Jim Wright, the restaurant began as a small bar and grill near Holmes Road; and,
WHEREAS, after a tornado in 1957 destroyed the original building, it moved to its current location at 135th and Locust Street, where it has remained ever since; and,
WHEREAS, the name "Jess & Jim's" honors Jess's contribution, even after he sold his share in 1949; and,
WHEREAS, over the decades, Jess & Jim's has earned acclaim from national publications, including being named "the finest steakhouse in the world" by Calvin Trillin in 1972; and,
WHEREAS, the menu features classic cuts like the Martin City Strip, ribeye, filet mignon, and the famous Playboy Strip, alongside hearty sides such as twice-baked potatoes, green beans, and buttered mushrooms; and,
WHEREAS, Jess & Jim's has maintained its identity through generations, with the Van Noy family continuing the tradition; and,
WHEREAS, it survived the Great Depression, World War II, and neighborhood changes, remaining a local landmark and a destination for steak lovers; and,
WHEREAS, the 88th anniversary of Jess & Jim's Steakhouse is a milestone for a restaurant that has stayed true to its roots, serving the same hearty steaks and classic sides for over eight decades, while still drawing both locals and visitors from across the country; now therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED that Jackson County Legislature would like to recognize Jess & Jim's Steakhouse and their contribution to the Jackson County community.
Enacted and Approved
E...
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