Forsyth MO. – It's no
secret that Charlie's Ribs, Steak and Ale is for sale, and has been
for sale, for some time. Struggles for sales being a likely cause for
the decision by the owner to sell. The question now is what fate lies
ahead for the popular and upscale eatery...
When I asked around as to why Charlie's
was experience problems, one answer I heard sounded pretty good. I
was told that the owner built 'a Branson sized restaurant in
Forsyth'. Yes, I could see that, when compared to other eateries in
that town, Charlie's was definitely the king of square footage. And
that can be a problem, as the upkeep or overhead can be a little too
large when compared to the income stream supported by two thousand or
so area residents. In addition, record rainfall early in the year
essentially closed down most of the park sites that drew many
vacationers and fishermen during the spring and summer months! The
loss of revenue was sure to adversely affect many Forsyth-based
businesses, not just Charlie's.
So, when the place does sell and I
think it will, the question becomes what type of business will it
likely be transformed into? I can't it staying as a simple restaurant
bar, but perhaps it will morph into some combination of businesses
that would stand a better chance of survival....
