CERRO GORDO, Ill. (WAND) — Judy Tuvell has owned Judy's Kitchen since it first started serving the Cerro Gordo community 22 years ago. One of the most unique parts of the business is that several generations come together to make it a success.
The team includes mother, children, and grandchildren. Tuvell says overall it has been a positive experience being able to work closely with members of her family.Â
"It's been good. We get along pretty good but every once and awhile mom has to put her foot down."
However, being in the Cerro Gordo community is important to Judy, having grown up in the community she sees this as a way to give back.Â
"I grew up here so I knew a lot of the older ones but there is a lot of new people that come, but I've got a good relationship with them. I try to help out the community," said Tuvell.
One of the major ways the family was able to give back was by hosting buffets to benefit those in the community in need of support.
The Judy's Kitchen family prioritized supporting those in need, so when they needed help after a fire and were forced to close their doors, the community returned to rally around Judy.
Tuvell stated, "The most memorable moment was after the fire, and we were able to reopen people were just really anxious to get here and we were really super busy having reopened."
Denise Roberts is Judy's daughter, but she also works as the manager of the restaurant. Over the years Roberts says there are many qualities that she admires in her mom and hopes to see in herself.Â
"She's just a powerhouse. I mean, she was on the schedule all the way up until about 70 and then she helped with catering for a couple more years, but she is officially in retirement now."
This year as Judy celebrates her 80th birthday, she is most thankful for her family, her sister, and being able to own Judy's Kitchen.
If you want to wish Judy a happy birthday or have a home-style meal with a piece of pie for dessert, you can stop by the restaurant Monday and Tuesday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. or Wednesday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Copyright 2024. WANDTV. All Rights Reserved.
