SHREVEPORT, La. - For decades, Kings Highway sat at the heart of local history - a stretch anchored near Centenary College and Youree Drive where three iconic restaurants served as community touchstones dating back to World War II.
Now, only one remains.
While Strawn’s Eat Shop continues to operate, neighboring landmark George’s Grill shuttered in 2017.
On Aug. 2, 2009, the third piece of that historic trio, Murrell’s, closed its doors for the last time.
On its final day of business, out-of-towners traveled from Dallas, Houston, Longview, and Tyler to secure one last meal, joining local regulars who treated the diner like a second home.
"I’m like a table," said one daily regular.
Murrell's was known as much for its relaxed atmosphere as its menu. Late-night crowds often included area college professors grading papers at 3 a.m. or patrons playing chess from 9 p.m. until 5 a.m.
Customers described a "Cheers"-like environment where waitstaff knew their names and regular orders, along with the rare freedom to linger for hours over coffee and conversation without being rushed.
"We get to linger here and resolve all the big issues of the nation," another long-time customer said.
Behind the counter, long-serving staff were the backbone of the establishment. Ms. Wilder, who began working at Murrell’s in 1967 fresh out of high school, laid claim to baking the diner's best pies.
When asked the secret behind the restaurant's chicken and dumplings, another chef had a quick answer: "A whole lot of love."
For the patrons who gathered to say goodbye that August, the diner's departure marked more than just a business closure.
"It's the passing of an old friend," one customer said. "We'll miss it."