Drake's to open soon in O'Fallon

Chesterfield, Mo-based general contractor, Knoebel Construction has completed the first Drake’s in the St. Louis region and the state of Illinois.

The Kentucky-based restaurant chain, which doubles as an entertainment venue, is set to open on September 21, 2020 at 1160 Central Park in O’Fallon, Ill.

The 6,014-SF, indoor/outdoor eatery was scheduled to open in May 2020 but ran into delays due to COVID-19, limiting the number of construction workers on site.

Knoebel coordinated with the owner and subcontractors and incorporated 3-D imaging and other online project management tools to continue construction and see the project to completion.

“This was a formidable build for Knoebel due to the COVID-19 restrictions and concerns, but we were able through constant vigilance and safety measures to complete construction on time and in budget,” said Bryon Muir, director of business development with Knoebel.

Drake's offers a unique combo of (over 20) craft beers, burgers, sandwiches and a full sushi menu served in a lively, contemporary indoor and outdoor patio space.

“Drake’s is a fast-growing chain of restaurants headquartered in Lexington, KY that promises great food and a great time, but along with that they have a great building. The woodwork and overall design is very intricate and, although it presented a challenge, it was enjoyable and we’re very proud of completing something that is not your everyday bar and grill, but a restaurant unique to St. Louis,” Muir said.

Knoebel Construction has also been selected as the general contractor for upcoming locations in Louisville, Ky. and Evansville, Ind. Other partners on the O’Fallon Drake’s include architect, Ken Brown at Design +; MEP design by Case Engineering, Inc.; and civil engineering by Millennia Professional Services.

Drake’s has 15 locations across the midwest and southeast.