Couple cooking up good things at new caf, shop

TELL CITY - The owners of one of Tell City's newest businesses have big plans for their small café and gift shop.

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Tell City Star Cafe owners Dolly and Marty Wheeler serve breakfast and lunch in their eatery in the 400 block of Main Street in Tell City. Open Tuesday through Sunday, offer delivery to patrons on Main Street.

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Marty and Dolly Wheeler, who own Tell City Star Café and Imagination Creations in the 400 block of Main Street, said it's always been a dream of theirs to have a café and shop.

Cooking since he was young, Marty said he's worked in several restaurants, anything from truck stops to higher-end restaurants. But a café-style restaurant is what he always wanted for himself, he said.

"He does a bang-up job," Dolly said of his cooking, which she describes as "just like Grandma used to make." Many items are made from scratch, including soups, desserts and a special potato salad Dolly said has been passed down through her family. "I've had my mother come in to try it to make sure it's right," she added, smiling.

The café also offers delivery to patrons on Main Street but Marty said anyone can call ahead and they'll have their meal ready for them when they arrive. While the small café is only open for breakfast and lunch, the couple said they will have reservation-only formal dinners around holidays with a three- to four-course meal and "intimate" atmosphere. Their first was for Valentine's Day, which was a success, Dolly said. They're planning specials for St. Patrick's Day and Easter.

When the weather gets better, Marty said they'll offer outdoor seating and want to hold concerts in the small courtyard in front of the gift shop. He added that they want to feature unknown local talent, including artists who can display their artwork in the restaurant.

Dolly said they also incorporate the gift shop in with the restaurant, offering patrons the option of renting out the café for birthday parties, baby and wedding showers and other events. She said they would cater and decorate the space for any event.

Tell City Star Café is open 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday to Friday; 7 a.m. to noon Saturday, breakfast only, and from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday, breakfast only. For more information, call 619-1314.