Dining Out - Lukas Feed Lot Restaurant

By Deana Hansen

Are your taste buds seeking a fresh adventure? Then, perhaps I have just the cure for the dreaded taste bud delirium. Climb aboard your favorite mode of transport and travel to the small town of Clements located just minutes from Lodi.

The town of Clements is known for it’s world famous rodeo and has an equally famous watering hole and restaurant known simply as Lukas “Feed Lot” Restaurant.

I first discovered this restaurant one Sunday morning as I headed up Highway 88 towards Lake Camanche for some much needed rest and relaxation. My husband and I observed a banner that informed us about a Sunday brunch and the crowded parking lot sealed the deal as we promptly parked and entered the establishment. This was some years ago and we have returned many times, always enjoying the experience.

This restaurant has undergone many changes over the years including a devastating fire that gutted the old Clements landmark many years ago. With much dedication and devotion to the love of food, the late Reinhold Joseph Lukas, also known as “R.J.” and his wonderful bride Bobby Lukas went about the task of rebuilding the Landmark.

The rebuilt restaurant incorporated the charm and history of the old building with the functional flavor of a modern building.

To describe the décor one might call it Early American Fine Dining encompassing the feel of a casual cabin atmosphere. As you look around you will find yourself surrounded with the gild trimming of wood and warm colors. To add to the cozy charm where comfort comes first you will find comfortable chairs and soft lighting with a mixture of artwork and sculptures that provide good table conversation. It is easy to discover that RJ’s hobby was flying. You will see amazing pieces of signed and dated lithographs of WWII fighter planes that adorn the walls for your enjoyment.

To begin our culinary adventure on this occasion we were seated then introduced to our server Marianela. This enchanting young woman from Mexico made us feel welcome from the start and service was prompt throughout the meal. Marianela has been with Lukas for two years and says she enjoys the conversations with her guests, who many have become, extended family to her.

Marianela introduced us to the specials and pointed out the menus before us. The Lukas “Feed Lot” Restaurant menu is printed on newspaper stock with some black and white antique photos of downtown Clements depicting some of the town history. “Feed Lot” newspaper style menu reads even better when you reach the entrée selections. The selections offer a wide variety of menu choices ranging from their Burger Special to Chicken Cordon Blue, Pork Picatato “Milanaise”, New York Steak with baked stuffed potato, not to mention Jumbo Prawns or Escargots Bourguignonne along with a selection of salad and pasta dishes that make it almost impossible to decide.

My husband and I of course started in the Appetizers and Tidbits section. He can’t turn down the Escargot here, it’s prepared perfectly with drawn butter and fresh garlic. After some convincing he was finally able to entice me to try this appetizer. It truly was wonderful! You just have to get past the thought of snails that goes through ones mind. In fact I loved them so much he will have to share them in the future. That will teach him! Next, we had Artichoke Bottoms, stuffed with crabmeat, fine herbs and spices, breaded and baked with Parmesan cheese. These too were excellent. To accompany our appetizers we ordered from the bar a martini for my husband, and a glass of Chardonnay from Woodbridge for myself.

Our salads were served up next, dark crisp greens, with a variety of fresh vegetables adorning the plate. As for our entrée selections I had the evenings special that was salmon, shrimp and calamari on a bed of white rice accompanied with snow peas and zucchini. My husband had the New York Steak prepared to perfection with a baked potato, smothered with all his favorite toppings. The presentation was delightful and the food tantalizing to the senses.

Today, Freddie, “R.J.’s” lifelong friend is still providing the culinary skill that is exhibited at Lukas today. These men had a long history together and both apprenticed in Vienna together years ago. Freddie, a very shy man still continues to prepare the pleasures for others that “R.J.” enjoyed and envisioned.

What else is there to say except to let you know of the terrific prices given to these meals; lunch entries range from $6.95 to $17.95, dinner entries range from $6.95 to $22.95. We never made it to dessert, however they looked scrumptious. So, save room! Brunch is my favorite meal out and they offer a large variety from French Toast, Lamb Chops with eggs, San Francisco Joe’s, Chicken Crepes Supreme, Eggs Benedict, Pacific Salmon Delight to New York Steak & Eggs and many, many more delights.

Lukas Steakhouse Restaurant offers a full bar, and a significant list of local and northern California wines to choose from. So when your planning your next outing whether it is for lunch, dinner or Sunday Brunch we recommend Lukas “Feed Lot” Steakhouse Restaurant.

Attire is simple and you can wear just about anything from business attire to a pair of your favorite blue jeans. Say hello to Bobbie, who is providing an excellent place for us all to enjoy a wonderful dinning experience in the foothills of northern California.

I might add that Bobbie is looking for a buyer for this fine establishment after the loss of her husband and this is a nugget to be discovered and purchased for the entrepreneur who enjoys the restaurant business.

Lukas “Feed Lot” Restaurant is located at 18950 East Highway 88, Clements, California. For brunch or dinner reservations, call (209) 759-3100. Hours: Open Wednesday thru Thursday 11a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. While visiting Lukas “Feed Lot” Restaurant, take a few extra minutes and browse at “Clements Mercantile” Antiques and Collectibles next door.