Nestled on the Tippecanoe River, the tradition of Bill & Babes tavern shines through. Friendliness, hospitality, and wide-ranging menu choices have all been key to this long-standing family-owned tavern’s enduring heritage and success.
It was 1954 when Bill and Phyllis Reutebuch opened the doors of what would soon become a cornerstone of their community in Pulaski. Phyllis was known as “Babe,” her preferred name, and she and Bill created a slice of Americana appropriately named Bill & Babes.
In 1999 their son, Dan, assumed ownership of the restaurant with a commitment to the welcoming atmosphere, prized customer service and honored traditions established by his parents. Dan has continued the successful formula that made Bill & Babes a second home for locals, and a sought-after dining experience for those traveling or finishing a day on the river.
There have only been a few changes within the building, including the addition of a kitchen broaster, remodeling of the restrooms and refurbishment of the tavern’s century-old bar. During the pandemic, Dan began the practice of having fresh seafood flown in weekly from Boston. The response was significant, with many driving miles for takeout.
The demand for the fresh seafood has continued, with customers traveling impressive lengths for both to-go and dine-in orders of lobster rolls, clam strips, haddock, oysters, whole belly clams, cod, shrimp, calamari and octopus. Dan says adding fresh seafood to the menu has been a “game changer.” Although the menu has expanded, the classics remain. Steak, chicken strips, burgers, broasted pork chops and chicken, sandwiches such as tenderloin, fried bologna and BLTs, as well as various types of pizzas, are all available.
Catfish, walleye, yellow lake perch, smelt, and all-you-can-eat bluegill are among the regional fish to be enjoyed. Appropriate to its tavern setting, there are craft beers, domestic beers and a selection of wines available. The attached patio affords patrons a beautiful river view while enjoying a drink, socializing or dining outside.
On August 17, the Bill & Babes team celebrated its 70th anniversary with two bands, abundant fresh seafood and all the menu choices that have made the restaurant so popular through the years.
Dan appreciates having his wife, Leslie, and brothers, Tim and Bill, faithfully assist him each day. He also feels so lucky to have the best employees he could ask for supporting him in running a business that requires much time and work. Fortunately, he enjoys every minute of the 15 hours each day he spends as owner, manager and lead cook at his treasured workplace, which is open 365 days per year. On Mondays and Tuesdays, he might even be your server.
Dan says he loves rising early and heading off to do what he loves. “Getting up, going to work and then going to bed is pretty much it – not much else,” he says. He also expresses that the people make his job worthwhile. He strives to make Bill & Babes a place that makes customers feel like part of the family.
Bill & Babes offers not just a meal, but an experience. One customer was delighted to find a pearl in one of the oyster shells she was served! You may not happen upon an actual pearl, but once you sense the character that fills the historic establishment, once you see the smiles that greet you, and once you take that first bite, you will wonder how you did not know of this somewhat hidden gem lying quietly near the shore of the Tippecanoe, awaiting you.
Bill & Babes is located at 5658 South Main Street in Winamac. You can reach them at 574-595-0536. Payment is cash only.
Comments 1
It’s actually located a couple of miles south of Winamac in a small town called Pulaski. Across the street you can tour the John Deere Museum. Great place, great people.