Stoby's Restaurant: A Russellville Staple

Stoby's Restaurant has been a Russellville institution since its opening in 1984, four years after the original Stoby's opened in Conway. The restaurant traces its roots back to 1930. Over the years, Stoby's has become a local favorite, known for its warm atmosphere and classic American dishes. The menu features a wide variety of options, from hearty breakfast plates and signature sandwiches to juicy burgers and flavorful quesadillas. Stoby's is particularly famous for its cheese dip, which has garnered a loyal following and is even available in local supermarkets.The Russellville location has a unique feature: part of the dining area is inside a vintage railcar. This railcar was originally built in 1918 as an Illinois Central coach and was later rebuilt and modernized. In 1972, it was purchased by the Rock Island Railroad and used for maintenance. After being sold at auction in 1981, it found its new home at Stoby's, adding to the restaurant's charm and character.In March 2016, Stoby's faced a setback when a fire caused extensive damage, leading to a temporary closure and rebuild. However, the community rallied around the restaurant, and Stoby's reopened in August 2017 with a larger building and updated facilities. During the rebuilding process, Stoby's held a special event called "Make Your Mark," inviting locals to sign the studs of the new building and leave their memories. These personal touches are a testament to the restaurant's deep connection with the community.