After a spring and summer filled with kids growing up, we finally got back in the car to go find an out-of-the-way place to eat that had the recommendation of someone who’s been there and raved about it.

Windmills Steak and Ale in Suppesville had been a rumor we’d heard for a while now, but we got confirmation from at least two different sources (unrelated to each other) (and we’d be glad to reveal these sources) that the fried catfish was amazing and a “must-have.”

Since it gets so dark so early these days, we drove down there in the early evening, trusting that the road signs would get us first to Suppesville and then to Windmills. We made it to the unincorporated town of Suppesville, but missed the sign that pointed us towards the restaurant. Although we followed our noses, and actually got to the turnoff for Windmills, we didn’t find the place on our first try and had to go back to the gas station to ask directions.

When you go, drive north from the intersection of K-42 and Argonia Road (also called 375th West) about one-half mile to Ashleigh Road. On the right, there is a large building facing away from the road that has a sign (which, for some reason, was unlit the night we drove past it) that says, very clearly, Windmills Steak and Ale. There’s a nice bright streetlight there at the corner where you turn, too. So you can’t miss it (even though we did).

When we went in the restaurant, our great waitress and hostess, Trisha, gave us our choice of the dining room or the bar area. The dining room is spacious and quiet with nicely spaced tables designed for conversation and a relaxing dinner. The bar area has a flat-screen TV on the wall, stools at the bar, and around 6-8 tables or booths to choose from. We sat right smack in the middle of the bar area with a good view of the basketball game, because even when we get out of town, we like to be in the center of the action.

They have a classic, can’t-miss menu at Windmills Steak and Ale, including fish, steaks, chicken, burgers, salads and appetizers. Not just any appetizers… our favorite appetizers: chips and salsa, mozzarella sticks – with ranch, buffalo wings, and breaded/fried mushrooms. Baked or mashed potatoes, cottage fries, or steak fries come with almost anything you order, and are delicious. Matter of fact, Cassidy (our 14-year-old) wrote on my notes – “*GOOD FOOD.”

Angie and Ken Locke at Windmills.

Ang got the fried catfish with mashed potatoes and gravy along with green beans. I tried some of the catfish and seriously have only had its equal once, and that was down in Mississippi. Amazing, and you know I avoid fish almost without exception. Cassidy and I both got chicken fried steak with gravy, with mashed potatoes (Cassidy) and a baked potato (me). I got a salad, Cassidy tried the corn, and we also got chips, salsa, and mozzarella sticks. Of course, all the beverages you can drink for both pop and iced tea.

Windmills Steak and Ale has a website, http://www.suppesville.com/windmills.htm, which they are in the process of updating to reflect the hours and menu adjustments. Their hours are now Friday and Saturday 4:30 pm. to 9:30 p.m., and Sunday 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Call them at 620-478-2626. Michael Daerr is the owner, and, although we didn’t get a chance to meet him when we went, he’d be glad to talk with you about whatever questions you have.

A few reasons why we loved the place so much: One of the cooks is from Norwich – I got all excited about the “N” on his hat. Norwich, not Nebraska (oh, well… can’t have everything). As the evening progressed, the restaurant filled with regulars. Trish knew them and in many cases brought them their “regular” drink orders (“You want a juice box, hon?” – to the friendly 6-year-old girl) without any big ceremony but with a big smile and a friendly “Hi, sweetie, how ya doin’ tonight?”

Also, you have to know the secret to the doorknob to leave – it only turns one way so you’ve got to be ready and committed to leaving to get out. If you aren’t sure (or just don’t want to leave) turn the doorknob the wrong way and pretend you are stuck and stay a little longer.