Chris McD’s spruces up to complement its menu.

Chris McD’s, a staple of fine dining in Columbia for more than thirty years, is a name that quickly conjures up the aroma and delicacy of sizzling steak and mouthwatering seafood. But even the greats need a makeover at times, and that’s what happened this fall.  

“With the caliber of food and service it was apparent that the atmosphere needed to match the great experience here at Chris McD’s,” said Tyler Spurgeon, head chef and co-owner. Together with brother, Chris Spurgeon, and his team at Como Cabanas LLC, the team assembled all the ingredients to achieve that goal.  

A Look Back   

Chris McD’s was established in 1991 by founder and chef Chris McDonnell at 1400 Forum Boulevard. The restaurant has only been remodeled one other time in its thirty-three-year history, just after a fire in 1993. The restaurant shut down for a spell for repairs, opening back up in 1994 after rebuilding the kitchen and revamping the front of the house as well as the menu.  

Thirty years later, Chris McD’s Restaurant & Wine Bar is as much a destination as it is a top choice for a romantic date night, corporate wine-and-dine, or relaxed family and friend culinary experience. The eatery’s Facebook page promises “a wide variety of top-quality, full-flavor cuisine, including seafood, steak, pasta, chicken, and daily chef specials.”  

In the years that followed the fire, shutdown, and resurgence, the popularity grew, and the restaurant was the recipient of the Restaurant of the Year Award in 2002. Patrons were enjoying the menu variety with new cuisines as well as the delectable steak and seafood Chris McD’s came to be known for. The twenty-fifth anniversary brought celebrations and menu specials as well.   

By 2022, Chris McDonnell had found his suitable successor in Tyler Spurgeon. Together with new co-owners Tina and Dr. Mike Maurizi, Spurgeon took over as head chef. It seemed just the right timing for both McDonnell and Spurgeon. His plan was to keep all the great menu options that Chris McD’s was already known for while adding a bit of a French flare as time went on.  

Tyler also had plans for a remodel of the space and adding to the lovely patio options, which are now among the renovation features and the reopening.  

A Look Forward   

Spurgeon and team were excited to reopen in the fall with a new look updated to match the upscale service and menu. Excitement is buzzing in the restaurant and in the community as the ambiance, food, and friendly service beckon both old and new guests.  

Some of the other remodel highlights include a new floor, updated restrooms, bar, water feature, fireplace, and private dining room. Included on a “welcome back” Facebook post was “a special thank you to Como Cabanas LLC for spearheading this project seamlessly!”  

Como Cabanas LLC owner and brother to the chef, Chris Spurgeon, said he was excited and honored to work on the project.  

“There were a lot of great ideas, and we wanted to capture the feelings and elegance of a one-of-a-kind fine dining establishment,” he said. “It was our pleasure to put together a timeless build that people will be able to enjoy for years to come.”  

While the look was getting a facelift, Chef Tyler worked to update the menu as well. It was condensed down a bit and now boasts an al a carte option to allow customers to pick their steak and sides.  

“With the remodel we were looking to add an elegant atmosphere that matches the food and service here at the restaurant,” Tyler said. As for the future of Chris McD’s, the goal is simple: “To continue the great legacy that has made us a staple here in Columbia.”  

Chris McD’s will continue its focus on top-quality service, securing the freshest ingredients possible, and creating a memorable dining experience, Tyler said. Guests can drop in or make a reservation. The hours are 4:30-9 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.  

Timeline: 

1991
Chris McDonnell opened Chris McD’s with a ribbon cutting ceremony. 

1993
A kitchen fire caused severe damage; the restaurant shut down. 

1994
Chris McD’s rebuilt and reopened to the public. 

2002
Chris McD’s was awarded Restaurant of the Year by the Missouri Restaurant Association. 

2022
Chris McDonnell hands the apron to Tyler Spurgeon who takes over as Head Chef   
and co-owner with Tina and Dr Mike Maurizi.  

2024
Remodel and menu revamp complete to match the atmosphere and experience.