Merll’s Pub & Patio

As Waukee’s population soars, residents eagerly await the newest business — and get ready for a night on the town.

One new place, Merll’s Pub & Patio, opened in June and carries on a food and drink tradition established more than 50 years ago.

Merll’s, located at 788 W. Hickman Road in Waukee, is named after owner Travis Tovrea’s grandfather, Merll. 

After Merll returned to Iowa from the war in 1945, he and his wife, Irene, settled in Waukee. Shortly after that, they opened up Tovrea’s Station and Café just 200 feet from the new pub.

Merll’s grandson, Travis Tovrea, often stopped by his grandparents’ place as a child. It was known for its good food and being a lively place for a cocktail.

Today, Travis’ new digs welcome patrons to their expansive patio and indoor restaurant. Outside, large booths and tables offer sunny-side or shade seating. The bar opens up to both the inside and outside. Depending on Iowa’s weather, garage doors open or shut to the patio. Tall windows offer a bright indoor vibe.

The décor is simple with a cement floor and navy blue bar stools among black and wood tables and booths. More than two dozen televisions ensure you can cheer on your favorite team regardless of where you sit. A giant photo of Merll raising his beer welcomes a new generation of folks. 

When you head to the bathroom, don’t be surprised to be scrubbing your hands next to the opposite gender at the shared sink. Along the hall to the bathroom is a goat head. It’s not a prize-winning head, rather it’s the GOAT (greatest of all time) athlete photos from all decades.

We came for the food and drinks, right? A full bar menu includes an offering of classic cocktails and a special summer drink menu. A hot honey pineapple margarita made with Corazon Blanco Tequila and a spiced rim costs $10. With wine by the glass, local brews, seltzers and non-alcoholic drinks, Grandpa Merll would be amazed at the selection.

Appetizers feature staples such as chicken wings and Brussels sprouts. Yet they’ve switched things up with their wonton nachos and crab Rangoon dip. The hot dip, with baked cheese and crab, topped with Thai chili sauce and crispy wonton chips, is a tasty appetizer for $14.

Other apps include bruschetta, poutine and a Wisconsin charcutier —  a large pretzel served with meat, cheese, honey mustard and queso for $18. If you’re a cheese lover, you’ll find numerous cheesy items to your liking.

Homemade pizza with a just-right crust (not too thin or thick) includes a meat lovers, Caprese, classic and Midwest finest, which includes buffalo BBQ sauce, mozzarella, chicken, bacon, red onion and ranch for $16.

Rounding out the menu are salads, wraps, burgers, sandwiches and dessert. Mac ’n cheese lovers can choose from classic, buffalo chicken and burnt ends from $15 to $17.

When visiting Merll’s, you’re likely to see Travis everywhere — behind the bar, running food from the kitchen and greeting patrons — as he continues his grandparents’ legacy from a half a century ago. ♦