For over 50 years, the spot now known as Horseshoe Bar & Grill has been more than just a restaurant—it’s been a part of the fabric of Southern Illinois. Nestled along the beautiful banks of Horseshoe Lake in Alexander County, our location has been a place where stories are shared, friendships are made, and memories are created.
Originally known as Ouida’s Horseshoe Tavern, this beloved gathering place has always been owned and operated by people who live right here in the community. In January 2017, we had the privilege of taking the reins and continuing its rich legacy. We understood right away that we weren’t just taking over a business—we were becoming stewards of a local treasure.
At Horseshoe Bar & Grill, we’re proud to keep that spirit alive. Our team is passionate about offering a warm, welcoming environment where everyone feels like part of the family—whether you’re a longtime regular or visiting for the very first time.
Our menu reflects that same care and tradition. We serve hand-patted, fresh hamburgers made just the way you like them, and made-to-order pizzas with all your favorite toppings. Nothing frozen, nothing rushed—just good food made with pride and served with a smile. Whether you choose to sit inside and soak up the laid-back, hometown vibe, or grab a seat at our picnic tables overlooking the lake, you’ll find yourself surrounded by comfort, good company, and genuine hospitality.
But Horseshoe Bar & Grill is more than just a meal—it’s a place where birthdays are celebrated, toasts are raised, fishing stories are told, and neighbors become friends. We believe in the power of small-town connection, in taking the time to greet you by name, and in always making sure you leave full, happy, and looking forward to your next visit.
We invite you to stop by, pull up a chair, and experience what has made this place special for more than five decades. Whether you come for the food, the view, or the company, we’re here to make sure your time with us is memorable.
From our family to yours—welcome to Horseshoe Bar & Grill. We can’t wait to see you.
Benefits
- FRIENDLINESS
You’ll always find a warm smile waiting for you here, and more often than not, a familiar face too. It’s the kind of place where everyone feels like family. That kind of welcoming atmosphere makes every visit more comfortable, more relaxed, and just plain more enjoyable.
- QUALITY
Every time you walk through our doors, you can count on the same great quality—every dish made fresh and done right. We don’t cut corners, and it shows in every bite. That commitment to quality means you can relax, enjoy your meal, and know you’re getting something worth coming back for.
Name: Sherry
Title: Owner
Starting date: 2017-01-02
Bio: "Born and raised in Cairo, Illinois. Married to Sean Pecord. Five cats, the most famous one, Spooky, of course. I have a daughter, a bonus, daughter, and son! As well as 3 wonderful grandchildren!"
Favorite Food/Drink: "Our pizza is my favorite! Reminds me of the Turf pizza that I was raised on growing up in Cairo, Illinois. Not as good but pretty darn close!"
Fun fact: I can close my eyelid like a window shade. I thought all women could do this, but not lol.
Why Horseshoe? I love meeting the people and hearing the history that comes with this place. My favorite thing is when someone comes in with their grandchild and tells me that they used to come here with their grandparents. The roots run deep in this place, and I love it."
Bonus Question! Why did you start this business? "The former Owner, Ouida, was selling, and we didn't want anyone to buy it and change it too much. It's been a treasure of this community for a long time. So we decided to invest in our community and take this leap of faith. I quit my office job in Cape, and we took on this new adventure."
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Name: Chelsea
Title: Bar Manager
Starting date: 2023-02-01
Bio: "Married to the LOML, with two very feral children. I love animals, and crafting🥰"
Favorite Food/Drink: "Saucy Strips"
Fun fact: I love reptiles! 🐍🦎
Why Horseshoe? "It's not like a job, it's more like hanging out with friends whom become family. "
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Name: Toni
Title: Cook/Bartender
Starting date: 4/14/2024
Bio: "Hard working momma."
Favorite Food/Drink: "Tater kegs / Bucky bomb "
Fun fact: I can’t reach the top shelves.
Why Horseshoe? "Love this place. HBG has great owners, fun staff, and a good atmosphere. Also I gotta feed them damn kids. "
Name: Kellie
Title: HBIC • Resident Surgeon • Art Department • IT Department • Seasonal Decorator • Thirst Responder
Starting date: 2017-01-21
Bio: "Local Girl • Love spending time with Family & Friends • Enjoy going to concerts & playing golf!"
Favorite Food/Drink: "Horseshoe Sunrise "
Fun fact: My Favorite Season is Duck Season 🦆
Why Horseshoe? "I absolutely love the people here! Sherry is the best boss & friend ❤️ I love my Regulars. All the friends along the way that are now like family ❤️ I still try hard to keep Ouida’s legacy going, I loved her dearly ❤️"
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Name: Laurel
Title: Bartender/Cook
Starting date: 2025-04-30
Bio: "I'm a teacher/tutor, scientist, phlebotomist, and now proud cook/bartender. A true jack of all trades. I even drive a stick😏 and I can change my oil. I have two boys and two grandbabies that I love dearly. And I love having a job where I enjoy not only what I'm doing but also love everyone I work with and for!"
Favorite Food/Drink: "The Laurel. Pizza. Fried green beans. Funnel cake sticks."
Fun fact: I'm a lab rat. I love math and chemistry. I can analyze DNA, and I know how to distill biofuel and ethanol 😉 oh, and I can make soap too!
Why Horseshoe? "We laugh every day! "
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Name: Mindy
Title: Bartender
Starting date: 2022-06-13
Bio: "My name is Mindy, I grew up in the area, and have always loved HGB, even when it was Ouida. We still have the best pizza in the area! Outside of work, I love to read, kayak, and play with my dogs."
Favorite Food/Drink: "Bucky nuggets on a bun!"
Fun fact: I work at HGB while working another job and going to college for a master's degree.
Why Horseshoe? "My favorite thing about working at HBG is the customers, new or returning, they always make the day go by super fast and are so fun to talk to!"
Name: Ashlyn
Title: Manager
Starting date: 2017-01-08
Bio: "I have worked at Horseshoe since January 2017, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything! I have gained so many friends and new family members while I’ve been here. I’m a pet mom to three rambunctious kitties, Betty, Tater, and Noodle; my house is a daily mess. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, friends, and boyfriend. I’m very outgoing and always down for fun!"
Favorite Food/Drink: "A good ole plain single cheeseburger. Can’t beat it!"
Fun fact: I love Sudoku and crossword puzzles, and I can pick things up with my toes!
Why Horseshoe?: "Definitely the customers! I’ve met some of my favorite people in the world here and have made many lifelong friendships 😊"
Name: Jayme
Title: Bartender/Cook
Starting date: 2021-02-10
Bio: "I am a mom, grandma, teacher, and bartender/cook. When I am not working, I enjoy camping, kayaking, and traveling with my family. "
Favorite Food/Drink: "Burger and tots are my all-time go-to at Horseshoe."
Fun fact: I have so many 😆
Why Horseshoe? "I enjoy working at Horseshoe for the family atmosphere. From the owners to the staff to the customers, I have developed friendships that can not be replaced. Working weekends, I have the ability to socialize while working for and with some of the best people. "
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