TEXARKANA, Ark. - A new restaurant opened this month on Arkansas Boulevard where Park Place, once a sophisticated local steakhouse, long operated.
This is not the Park Place of old. The name has been changed to Dapper@Park Place, and the interior has been extensively renovated. Within its confines are three dining environments and two menus.
The operation at 2905 Arkansas Blvd. is owned by Tederal Jefferson and Jervis Williams.
"The main dining area, Park Place, features a range of options, from the finest in steaks and seafood to Southern comfort food and other favorites," said Jefferson. "Our menu is still being tweaked and modified by Mike Tavenner, our general manager."
Tavenner is 30-year veteran of the fine dining scene, much of it in Washington, D.C., bringing hospitality to national leaders, as well as the Washington Nationals baseball team.
A series of health crises brought him to Texarkana for an extensive convalescence. But he has found he does not want to sit still. So Jefferson and Williams have brought his skill and experience on board.
"The customers have raved about the food so far, while we continue to modify the menu," Williams said. "A favorite sandwich is the chicken torta milenesa. They also love the fully loaded steak and chicken fries. And our crab cakes are excellent. In fact, we have a crab cake burger."
Tavenner is premiering Maryland jumbo lump crab cake this weekend.
Also inside is a bar, the Blue Martini, with its own menu and many flavors of daiquiris and shakes.
Structural work continues as their outdoor pavilion and cigar lounge near completion.
"We want to have that one ready for football season," Williams said.
Both men are happy with being open again, but with final elements being put in place, neither have felt they have the luxury to take a breather yet.
"Still in game mode," Williams said. "We want to have our final features in place come the fall."
"Not feeling the moment," said Jefferson. "Still fine tuning, still adding staff."