Globalksp OP t1_j7nfhvv wrote on February 8, 2023 at 1:32 AM

Reply to comment by banjomin in 417's Best of Restaurants '23 by Globalksp

It’s my goal to not rag on anyone as I assume everyone is trying. That said, I’ve never even heard of Jimm’s so meant it less as a jab to them.

Also people here seem unable to withstand criticism of Springfield. Maybe it’s the Jersey in me, but I’m capable of both love and honesty.

cmiller727 t1_j7ntip8 wrote on February 8, 2023 at 3:18 AM

I genuinely like Jimms but also agree that its not in the top 3 for fine dining!

Wyldfire2112 t1_j7rh7ve wrote on February 8, 2023 at 9:57 PM

Jimm's has been around for forever, though it used to be under a different name. It was originally called Steak & Ale, then the owners retired and sold the place to one of the staff, Jim, who renamed it Jimm's and kept the place going.

Used to be the best steakhouse in town up until the last few years when quality has slipped, plus they emphasize quality service and have a very nice ambiance, which is likely why it gets so many fine dining votes.

People know and love the place, and many have probably never heard of the other two. I know I haven't.

417SKCFAN t1_j7rw774 wrote on February 8, 2023 at 11:36 PM

You’re a bit off on the history. Steak and Ale was a national chain that went bankrupt and closed in 2008. Ownership didn’t change hands, Jimm Swafford was the manager of Steak and Ale, the building owner was Errett Sechler who wasn’t interested in running the place when it closed, but a year later changed his mind and let Jimm open and run the place as a tenant. Sechler died in 2019 and the family sold their properties, including Plaza Tower’s and Jimm’s to Marco Denis.

https://sbj.net/stories/2021-12-people-marco-denis,72070

Wyldfire2112 t1_j7ry20i wrote on February 8, 2023 at 11:49 PM

Ah, my bad. Thanks for clearing that up.

Saltpork545 t1_j7tst6j wrote on February 9, 2023 at 10:22 AM

This, plus I wouldn't be at all surprised if 417mag didn't include young professionals. I've spent 17 years in Springfield, all of my 20s and most of my 30s and I've paid attention to what 417mag says like 10 times, including this.

I remember Steak & Ale. It was good. Far from the best but good. It was an old school steakhouse and so is Jimm's. I haven't been in several years so I can't say anything about the quality post covid. When I want a steak I go buy one and make it myself.