Osseo Watering Hole Gets New Owners
Dick’s Bar and Grill in Osseo has been a neighborhood staple, led by the Christenson family since 1956.
Earlier this month, they handed its ownership off to a new family.
The new owners are Phil and Diane Lutgen. They have three daughters, all of whom are involved with the three other restaurants they own across the metro.
“We went from one family owning the restaurant to another family owning the restaurant,” Lutgen said. “And we are exactly that.”
Dick Christenson bought the restaurant in 1956, and his son Bill later took over.
As the Christensons — Bill, Maxine and Molly — leave the business, it’s hard for anyone not to reflect on their legacy.
Julie Schmitz is one staffer who’s been with them for much of their time.
“You know, I’ve lost count. It’s just that the years go by so fast. But it’s about 27 years,” Schmitz said.
Schmitz said the restaurant felt like a family. Many of the owner’s family members and friends worked there, but customers also became like kin.
“You get pretty attached to a lot of the customers. So that’s the main thing,” Schmitz said. “A lot of stories told, and stuff like that. You get pretty involved in their lives.”
Julie Schmitz cleans off the bar shortly after Dick’s opened for the day.
Same, But Different
Lutgen seeks to keep that family vibe in the transition.
“It’s a great feel to be able to get into a neighborhood bar and grill and have everyone in the neighborhood accept you,” Lutgen said.
He said he’s excited to keep things the way everyone likes it, with some personal touches as a trained chef. Namely, he wants to add some vegetarian and gluten free options.
“We’ll do a couple menu items,” he said. “But full-well knowing it’s a bar and grill, so we’re not going to get too fancy.”
As the winter drags on, Lutgen said he’s already looking forward to the summer — if you can even picture it.
That’s when the restaurant’s patio comes to life, from the outside-in.
“There’s a lot of big operations out there. But being able to walk into this establishment, and say ‘hi’ to someone, and seeing your neighbor be here — that’s why they should come,” Lutgen said.
Dick’s Bar and Grill is located on 205 Central Avenue in Osseo.
Phil Lutgen is one of the new owners of Dick’s Bar and Grill in Osseo.
