LEROY, Ala. (WALA) – A popular Washington County business is returning under a new name and ownership three years after closing its doors.
Darlene McIlwain owned and operated Creekbank in Leroy for 38 years before deciding to close the restaurant in 2023. Now, owner Holly Morris is preparing to open Darlene’s Restaurant, named in honor of the former owner.
While Darlene’s Restaurant will operate in a different building, organizers say the food and atmosphere will remain true to the original establishment, with McIlwain continuing to play a role in maintaining the legacy.
Community reaction
Morris and restaurant manager Rani Cortes said community reception to the reopening plans has been overwhelming.
“It’s something that’s been missing ever since the Creekbank closed. It’s been the one thing that everybody has wanted back. I think that’s why we had such a good response to it,” Cortes said. “The key to that is if you want it to be similar, you have to have the foundation, and Mrs. Darlene is our foundation. She’s our icon essentially.”
Morris, who grew up in the community, said preserving familiar traditions was central to the decision to open the restaurant.
“You don’t get that overnight if you don’t get that without bringing something familiar to your community back, it’s what we crave from our childhood,” Morris said. “I grew up here. I ate there multiple times a day sometimes so it’s important to get it right and for it to feel familiar.”
An official opening date has not been announced, but operators are targeting the end of next month.
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