Backwoods brings BBQ to McGregor
By Audrey Posten, North Iowa Times Editor
McGregor’s Landing is now under new management. Kari Waterman took over several weeks ago, opening Backwoods Bar and Grill at 111 First St., in downtown McGregor.
The building most recently housed Uncle Sam’s Saloon and McGregor’s Whistle Stop Cafe, operated by Linda Boeke.
Waterman, who’s from Farmersburg, worked at Commercial Vehicle Group in Monona for over 20 years. With her kids now out of school, she thought it was time for a change. This venture felt like a good fit.
“I worked at a bar in Monona for a year and a half,” she said, “and I enjoyed the cooking and bartending.”
So far, Waterman said, she’s enjoyed meeting a lot of new people and being part of the McGregor community.
“I’ve had time to talk to locals and get to know the people who are still working here from the previous owner,” she noted. “McGregor is such a nice town.”
Backwoods offers a variety of foods, Waterman said, most notably homemade pizzas, nachos and sandwiches.
“We’re smoking our own pork and beef,” she said. “We want to go with the smoked BBQ sandwiches.”
In addition, the restaurant will offer a Friday night fish special, as well as ribs and steak on Saturday nights, Waterman said. They currently have a salad bar and hope to soon offer a Saturday night all-you-can-eat buffet.
Waterman said the building’s event center will be available for gatherings, as well, including parties and wedding receptions.
“We can cater,” she said. “We have a full kitchen for events.”
Backwoods Bar and Grill is open seven days per week, which Waterman said will continue through the winter months. Food will be served from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. The bar will be open until midnight Sunday through Thursday and until 2 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays.
Waterman said patrons can learn about daily specials, menu items and potential live music on the “Backwoods Bar and Grill” Facebook page.