At our monthly MCCID meeting in June, we had the privilege of pausing regular business to celebrate one of Martin City’s true originals: Jess & Jim’s Steakhouse.
Representatives from Jackson County joined us to present a formal proclamation recognizing Jess & Jim’s for 88 years of continuous operation, community presence, and culinary tradition. The resolution was delivered by Jackson County Legislature Chairman Manny Abarca, who shared both the official language and a few personal memories along the way.
Jackson County Legislature Chairman Manny Abarca presented the proclamation to Jess and Jim’s Steakhouse owners Mike Van Noy and Debbie Van Noy.
88 Years of History in Martin City
The proclamation traced the journey of Jess & Jim’s from its beginnings to the beloved institution it is today:
Founded in 1938 by best friends Jess Kincaid and Jim Wright, the business began as a small bar on Holmes Road. After a tornado in 1957 destroyed the original building, the restaurant relocated to its current home on 135th Street in Martin City, where it’s remained ever since. Ownership has passed down through the same family, first to cousin R.C. Van Noy and then his sons.
Over the decades, Jess & Jim’s has earned national recognition, including mentions in major publications and often being named among the finest steakhouses in the world. Despite the attention, they have stayed grounded in what they do best: serving classic, hearty Midwestern steaks in a down‑to‑earth, authentic environment.
R.C. Van Noy (left) devoted himself to continuing cousin Jim’s tradition (right). Photo courtesy Jess and Jim’s
A Menu and Experience People Travel For
The County’s proclamation highlighted some of the menu items that have become local legends, including the giant “Playboy Strip”, classic cuts like the Kansas City strip and ribeye, and signature sides such as the twice‑baked potato, green beans, and mushroom.
Chairman Abarca also shared his own family’s long history with Jess & Jim’s, recalling childhood visits to see trains passing by (which still do.) Those details underscored what all of us in Martin City already know, Jess & Jim’s isn’t just a place to eat, it’s a place where memories are made.
A Local Landmark with Far Reach
For Martin City, this recognition is about more than an anniversary. Jess & Jim’s is a destination restaurant that draws visitors from across the region and beyond. It’s a cornerstone business that has helped define Martin City’s identity for generations, and a powerful reminder that independent, family‑oriented businesses can thrive and become part of the cultural fabric of a community.
The Jackson County Legislature’s proclamation formally acknowledges Jess & Jim’s as both a county treasure and a symbol of Martin City’s resilience and character.
We are proud to have Jess & Jim’s in our District and grateful for the decades of hard work, hospitality, and consistency that brought them to this milestone.
Here’s to 88 years and many more ahead in the Martin City neighborhood.
