Longtime Kearney Restaurateurs Transition Ownership

Whiskey Creek Wood Fire Grill, founded and grown in Kearney, has been a cornerstone of Nebraska’s restaurant scene for nearly 30 years. Built through the vision and leadership of longtime restaurateur Jim Gardner, the business has served generations of guests with a commitment to quality and hospitality. After 50 years in the industry, Gardner is passing the torch in a thoughtful, strategic transition to Old West Steak Co.—a team of three couples who bring deep industry roots and continuity.

With over 60 years of combined Whiskey Creek experience, the Graceys and Yendras, along with beef industry veterans Greg and Malinda Villwok, are poised to honor the legacy while ensuring long-term sustainability. Their plan to maintain existing operations reflects respect for what Gardner built and confidence in the brand’s enduring success. This transition represents not just a change in ownership, but a celebration of local legacy, loyalty, and the strength of Nebraska-grown enterprise.

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