Downtown Restaurant returns with new look, new menu

AFTER AN EXTENDED ABSENCE FROM Texas City’s 6^th Street scene, Downtown Diner re-opened its doors on Tuesday, complete with a ribbon cutting with the Texas City-La Marque Chamber of Commerce.

Once a go-to for first responders and employees of the city’s chemical and industrial plants, Downtown shut its doors to the lunch crowd early last fall. While it remained open from Wednesday-Saturday evening, the loss of the popular eating establishment was felt throughout the area, but the revised version has been worth the wait.

“Our focus was creating meals that people can relate to,” said Marko Stankovic, the new general manager of Downtown. “The goal was to focus more on homestyle dishes that are popular on a daily basis in the area.”

Gone – at least for now – are the burgers and sandwiches that made Downtown a staple to the weekday lunch crowd. Instead, chicken fried steak, chicken fried chicken and meatloaf are among the main dishes, along with liver and onions, baked chicken leg quarters and fried pork chops. 

Stankovic has designed each day of the week with a specific main entrée that is also bolstered by side dishes (mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, rice, green beans, etc.) that are familiar with locals.

Downtown actually opened its doors last month in a soft opening that netted strong and positive reviews from those who welcomed the change of pace from the usual bar food menu.

“The choices we have made have been pleasing for those who have returned to us,” said Stankovic. “We want to be able to provide a quality setting for a quality meal that people will be satisfied with.”

Stankovic added that plans are in motion to bring back sandwiches and burgers, yet there was not a timetable set for it. As well, the plans are keep Downtown open from 10:00am to 2:00pm Monday-Friday with no set plans for a potential return to its nighttime schedule.