About Us
Barefoot’s First 60 Years by the River
The original Barefoot, initially known as Melody Trail Harbor, was established in 1958 by Willie and Dorothy Allgire. It acquired the name ‘Barefoot’ due to boaters who frequented it straight from the river, often barefoot and in their swimsuits. In 1962, William and Edward Herter bought the establishment. Tragically, the Illinois River flood of 1973 completely destroyed the original building. However, resilience prevailed, and a larger, elevated structure was erected on the ruins of the old one within the same year. This new Barefoot was built to accommodate more guests, boasting a spacious dining room with a seating capacity of 200 and a large bar. Despite its robust construction, the building continued to face intermittent closures over the next 40 years due to recurring river floods.
1958
The original Barefoot was built in 1958 by Willie and Dorothy Allgire. It was bought in 1962 by William and Edward Herter. It was completely destroyed by the Illinois River flood in 1973. A larger building was built on the ruins of the old one in the same year.
1973
The new Barefoot in Hardin, IL was built on top of the ruins of the old Barefoot in 1973, after the old one was ruined in the flood of that year. It has a seating capacity of 200 in the spacious dining room and also has a large bar.
2019
After the 2019 flood, Brian Matthews purchased the brand and recipes from Judy Herter. He rebuilt the restaurant inside the former Illini Medical Building. Today it is know for unique views of Joe Paige Drawbridge, and great food.
Barefoot Restaurant Reopens
Barefoot Restaurant has made a triumphant return after being destroyed in the 2019 flood. Thanks to the efforts of Brian Mathews and his wife, Cathy, who purchased the brand and recipes from the previous owner, Judy Herter, the restaurant has been re-established in the heart of Hardin, IL. Together, they worked tirelessly to renovate the space, knocking down walls, re-laying out the rooms, and even building a new kitchen addition. The process was a challenging one, but with their unwavering determination and hard work, they were able to overcome any obstacles that arose. Barefoot Restaurant reopened in October 2022, featuring the same beloved menu and recipes that made it famous. Whether you’re in the mood for their legendary fried chicken or their mouth-watering fried catfish, you can count on the same high-quality, delicious food that has kept customers coming back for years. All in all, the new Barefoot Restaurant is a shining example of resilience and determination, and a true gem of the Hardin community, thanks in no small part to the hard work and dedication of Brian and Cathy Mathews.
