Revitalizing a Duncanville Gem, Kim and Jenny’s
SHOT AND WRITTEN BY: CLIFF STANDARD CO
Kim & Jenny's has long been a beloved local dining spot in Duncanville. With Tracy Shook now at the helm, this longtime favorite has had new life breathed into it. Tracy, a veteran in the restaurant business with a tenure spanning over three decades, has been instrumental in revitalizing this iconic Duncanville eatery. Just last month, Kim & Jenny’s was recognized with the Mayor’s Choice Award of Excellence. “We're in it to make long-term relationships with people in the community,” Tracy said. “We’ve worked really hard in a short amount of time, and it was really nice to know that people are noticing it.”
“We’re in it to make long-term relationships with people in the community.”
Tracy first moved to Duncanville to take over a rundown burger joint. What started as a hobby turned into a lifelong passion, leading him to establish and manage several restaurant locations, including the well-known Takeout Burgers. His diverse experience also includes running a healthcare facility for handicapped adults, which he started in his early twenties. He estimates that he’s run around 17 businesses over the years. “I've done several different things in the city of Duncanville,” he said. “I know a lot of people in the community…some that I’ve worked with and, as time has gone by, their kids have even worked for me,” he said with a laugh.
At the core of Tracy's success is his hands-on approach and commitment to quality. This dedication has earned his establishments a reputation for being among Duncanville's cleanest and most well-run. His focus on food safety and exceptional customer service has set a high bar for local dining experiences. “I'm involved in every aspect of the business,” he said. “People want to see the owners, they want to know that they're involved. And so to me, that's kind of a very important aspect.”
“It’s the place to go if you want to meet people, and it’s the place to come into town to hang out and socialize”
When the opportunity to take over Kim & Jenny's arose, Tracy saw potential for improvement–after all, he didn’t want to see a well-loved spot like this disappear. He quickly went to work, lowering prices to make the restaurant more accessible and ensuring that each dish was homemade and freshly prepared. For instance, under Tracy's stewardship, Kim & Jenny’s has introduced daily specials, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. These specials have become a hit among the locals, from enchiladas on Mondays to spaghetti on Saturdays.
After less than a year, these changes and others have had a tremendous impact. Kim & Jenny's has experienced a remarkable growth spurt, with sales tripling in recent months. The restaurant, he admits, is more than just an eatery; it’s a social hub for Duncanville. “It's the place to go if you want to meet people, and it's the place to come into town to hang out and socialize,” he said. And for the regulars? Not only are you known by name, but you have your picture on the wall. Literally. “One of my favorite things we do is our canvas paintings of customers,” he said. “If you’re here five days a week in general, you’ll probably end up seeing your painting on the wall.”
Tracy's vision for Kim & Jenny's goes beyond its current success. He is keen on playing a significant part in the development of the Wheatland Plaza shopping center. His plans are set to retain the restaurant's beloved small-town feel while adapting to the growing needs of Duncanville. “A lot of people are asking for a little outdoor seating, so we’re eager to see if that’s possible.”
For those looking to experience Kim & Jenny's warmth and quality, the restaurant offers $9.95 daily specials and a $5.99 early bird special for breakfast. It's not just a place to eat; it's a place to connect, share stories, and meet the community. Next time you're near Wheatland Plaza, make sure to stop by Kim & Jenny's, enjoy one of their fantastic specials, and don't forget to follow along for the latest updates and offerings.
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