Eat, Shop, Bank Local: The Buck Snort in Council Bluffs, IA
October 16, 2023
At TS Bank we believe that a community is only as strong as its local businesses. As part of our Eat, Shop, Bank Local blog series, we have highlighted local businesses in Southwest Iowa. Next up, we have featured Dwayne and Julie Pleas owners of the Buck Snort in Council Bluffs. Read more about their story below.
In September 2016, the Council Bluffs community welcomed The Buck Snort, a fast, casual restaurant in the downtown neighborhood located at 25 Scott Street. That year, we chatted with the owners Dwayne and Julie Pleas, and since then wanted to give a fresh scoop on their business.
Who are the owners of this business?
Dwayne and Julie Plea also own the Glenwood and Oakland establishments, while Bud and Sarah Johansen own the Neola chain. Meanwhile, Shauntel Negrete and Jenna Johnston they own three Buck Snort restaurants in Harland, Red Oak and Missouri Valley, Iowa.
How did they get involved in the business?
Dwayne came from restaurant management and worked for Sysco food service before buying Buck Snort. His wife, Julie is a medical billing specialist and works for Methodist Hospital. The Pleas are locals to the Council Bluffs area and love the surrounding southwest Iowa communities.
Why did they want to own a business in Council Bluffs?
They love being entrepreneurs and keeping money local! Giving back and providing a service and family-style restaurant option was important.
What do they like most about the community?
Dwayne and Julie love Council Bluffs because of its right-sized city atmosphere with a feel of a small town. Then, their locations in Glenwood and Oakland offer a true small town, rural community sense. It has been a great mix as they have expanded their franchise ownership.
What do they offer that other businesses similar can’t?
The Buck Snort is a casual, family-friendly restaurant with the goal to get food out fast to their guests. They also have daily specials, catering, monthly burger specials, events including craft beer night and of course the famous Swamp Donkey!
In August 2021, Randy Santel, “Professional Eater” and food challenge You Tube influencer traveled to the Buck Snort in Council Bluffs to attempt the popular "Big Easy" Triple Burger Challenge. The challenge includes eating three of their burgers stacked high including the Monster Buck Burger, Swamp Donkey and Non-Typical Burger paired with a pound of waffle fries. He was the sixth winner at the Council Bluffs location and finished with the new record in 15:33! Be sure to check out his photo on the wall next time you are in.
Give the best pitch why people should choose to shop local?
When you shop local, you are helping a family who pours into the community. All that money circles back and stays in the local community.
Any specials or must-have menu items?
The Swamp Donkey, plus the Monster Buck Burger and Non-Typical Burger.
Location and hours?
Buck Snort Restaurant and Sports Bar
25 Scott Street, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Visit our downtown neighbor, the Buck Snort Restaurant and Sports Bar at 25 Scott Street in Council Bluffs and follow them on Facebook here. We look forward to our next visit!
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tsbank.com or call 844-487-3030. #igniteprosperity