WELLINGTON, Mo. (KCTV) – A Wellington restaurant known for its creekside deck and endless shrimp is about to get the national spotlight.
Catfish Charlie’s Restaurant & Lounge, located in Lafayette County, will host a visit from America’s Best Restaurants (ABR) as part of the company’s ABR Roadshow.
ABR, a national media and marketing company, says it travels the country spotlighting independently owned restaurants that make a positive impact on their communities.
During the visit, the ABR team plans to film an on-camera segment featuring an extensive interview with owner Cosette Spencer about the restaurant’s roots in the community.
The show is expected to be filmed at 2 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 18; however, the restaurant indicates it is an invite-only event and not open to the public.
From a Fishing Hobby to a Local Favorite
According to ABR, Catfish Charlie’s story began in 2010, when local farmer Charlie Morgan turned his love of fishing into a community gathering spot.
After catching more catfish than he could take home, the company says Morgan started selling his extra catch along the banks of Sni-A-Bar Creek.
The demand for fresh, locally caught fish quickly grew – and Catfish Charlie’s was born, eventually becoming known for both its food and its guided fishing trips on local waters, ABR adds.
In 2020, the company notes that the restaurant entered a new chapter under Spencer’s new ownership. She has revitalized the space while honoring the food and hospitality Morgan established.
ABR reports Spencer felt a personal connection to the restaurant, which was a cherished place for her and her late brother.
FILE – America’s Best Restaurants(WTAP)A Creekside Destination
Since reopening, ABR says Catfish Charlie’s has grown into a destination with a rustic, creekside feel. It draws visitors from the Kansas City metro area and beyond.
The restaurant’s two-tiered, covered outdoor deck overlooks Sni-A-Bar Creek. Guests can relax there while enjoying menu favorites like All-You-Can-Eat Snow Crab Legs and 4-Way Endless Shrimp.
ABR also highlights the restaurant’s community involvement, including donations to local schools and organizations, as well as fundraisers for families in need.
“We’re honored to have Catfish Charlie’s featured by America’s Best Restaurants and to help put Wellington, Missouri on the map. It’s a privilege to represent our community and share the hospitality, food, and small-town charm that make this place so special. We couldn’t have done it without the incredible support of our customers, staff, and community,” says Spencer.
What’s Next
ABR says it will film on-site at Catfish Charlie’s on Sept. 18.
The full episode is expected to air later on social media. The premiere will be announced on Catfish Charlie’s Facebook page and featured on America’s Best Restaurants’ website and YouTube channel.
Catfish Charlie’s Restaurant & Lounge is located at 6909 Missouri Highway 224 in Wellington.
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