The Station on Ingersoll

Dugan’s Hideaway is part of The Station and
was named after a silent partner, Willie Dugan.
Local artist Jenna Brownlee painted the
outdoor Station signs. Photo by Jackie Wilson

Walking into The Station on Ingersoll created a feeling of nostalgia, not for the previous bar, Zimm’s, but for the one from decades before that — the Duck Blind.

The history of just two bars in the past 50 years was one reason the new owners, T.J. Rushing and Alex Mason, purchased The Station in June 2019. They spent three months renovating it before opening in October.

The remodeled digs include a sports bar feel, 30 TVs and sports décor.

Another big change is the menu. Patrons rave about the wings, and Rushing heard through social media that they are “some of the best in Des Moines.”

The menu also includes typical bar fare but with a fresh spin. Most of their meat is locally sourced from Brewer Meats in Des Moines. Cheese curds include a unique spicy siracha flavor cooked into the breading. The tenderloin special on Tuesday nights includes a just-right-sized, not-too-breaded loin with a side for $8.

Patrons can enjoy happy hour from 3-6 p.m. featuring domestic bottled beer and well drinks for $2.75. One night’s special was a mystery beer for $2. With nearly three dozen beer options, including local brews and wine by the bottle, the drink choices are solid.

The owners bring a great deal of bar and restaurant experience to the endeavor. Rushing and Mason are both Hoover High School grads, and they met while working at Silvistrini’s Pizza. Rushing earned his sports bar experience while working at Buffalo Wild Wings, both bartending and serving. Mason worked as general manager, cook and bartender at GoodSons in Beaverdale for 10 years.

The pair enjoys hearing about the rich history of their current location.

“A day doesn’t go by without hearing about the Duck Blind,” says Rushing. “We’re millennials; we hadn’t heard about the Duck Blind before this. On a recent Tuesday, servers donned masks, and seating inside was limited. Touch spots are taped off to allow for social distancing for indoor patrons and carryout service.

The pandemic proves to be a challenge, yet the closure in spring afforded them time to redo the patio.

“It was a silver lining when we had time off to spruce up the patio,” says Rushing. “It’s been a great place for people who want to be outside to social distance.”

Several patrons mentioned it was the best sports bar on Ingersoll, and Rushing hopes to be airing more sporting events.

“We’ve had meetings with our staff, and the No. 1 thing we want for our guests is to feel safe,” he says. “We’re excited to be part of the Ingersoll community.” ♦