Stroud’s South takes on a partner, plans to open more restaurants

Stroud’s South is teaming up with KC Hopps Ltd.

KC Hopps is now an equity partner in the location at 4200 Shawnee Mission Parkway, Fairway, and in any new locations.

“They are giving me some money. I’m not going to tell you how much,” said Mike Donegan, who will still be a partner in the restaurant and manage it. “They will come in and learn how we are doing it so someday they can open another one.”

KC Hopps does plan to expand the concept but doesn’t have any deals signed or scheduled opening dates.

However, Ed Nelson, president of KC Hopps, said another location could open in 2014 in the metro or perhaps Topeka.

“I tried to talk Mike into this five years ago. It’s an opportunity to grow a legendary brand and be part of something historic,” Nelson said.

Block & Co. Inc. Realtors will be the exclusive real estate broker for the new partnership.

Stroud’s has been serving its pan fried chicken since 1933. Jim Hogan and Mike Donegan purchased the location at 85th and Troost in 1977. Donegan became the sole owner in the early 1990s and later moved the restaurant to Fairway.

He also owns a Northland Stroud’s that is not part of the deal with KC Hopps.

Stroud’s has a loyal local following and has been featured in numerous national food shows and magazines.

KC Hopps, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, has several area concepts including Barley’s Brewhaus, 75th Street Brewery, 810 Zone and O’Dowd’s Little Dublin.

This story was originally published October 4, 2013 at 4:55 PM with the headline "Stroud’s South takes on a partner, plans to open more restaurants."