Change in the Air at Casler’s

New owners Rick and Colleen Fonseca.

Some big changes are coming to Casler’s Kitchen & Bar for the new year! The popular restaurant and night spot located at 116th and Olio Road (11501 Geist Pavilion Dr.) is hopping with excitement as they make room for a new stage, new tables, and a new family area.

“It is all about evolving with the customer,” says Rico Fonseca, whose family owns Casler’s.

“People want a place to go for good food, but will stick around all evening if there’s a chance to hear some good music,” he adds.

Casler’s is planning on blues and rock Friday and Saturday nights with a little room to dance, too. Some upcoming bands for January include the Jai Baker Band, Governor Davis & The Blues Ambassadors and Blue Tears, just to name a few.

“We will kind of be the Slippery Noodle on the north side of town!” says Fonseca.

The stage will be phase one of the construction project along with some changes in the seating. “The tables will be raised and the booths cut down in size in more of a pub style seating instead of family style,” says Fonseca.

And for your viewing pleasure, more televisions! Casler’s will be adding 30 new 50-inch HD plasma TV’s and two 65-inch TV’s. The stereo system will also be beefed up with automatic controls—for instance, the volume goes up as the crowd grows.

Phase 2 of Casler’s construction will focus on the family side of the restaurant, complete with games and theme nights highlighting area schools.

“We want school memorabilia on the walls and will offer discounts on certain family nights.”

The menu is also changing with some new offerings. Chef Craig Baker,who has won awards for dishes such as his own mac and cheese, will be serving up some of his own creations. Has anyone tried the Geist fries (french fries topped with bacon and melted cheese)? Or how about the “Tachos” … that’s right, tater tots loaded up like a plate of nachos.

Casler’s corner on Olio road and 116th is a popular one with new businesses popping up all around these days. What’s Fonseca think of the competition?

“I don’t really see it as competition. It just makes this area more popular and that draws more people, which could increase our business, as well.”

So if you haven’t been to Casler’s in a while, or, even if you are a regular, there’s plenty to check out and lots to keep you entertained at this kitchen and bar in the New Year!