FORT RUCKER, Ala. (July 25, 2013) -- The Landing Zone is currently renovation innovation at its finest with all the new concepts and ideas that are going into its new construction layout and functionality, but a few surprises are in store.
The restaurant is estimated to be reopened by mid-September, but the details surrounding its new design and menu are being kept close to the chest, said Tim Carter, Landing Zone programs manager.
"We want to keep the details of the renovation a secret until we get closer to the reveal," he said. "As we get closer to September we might decide to divulge more information. We just want to keep it a surprise for our customers."
The menu, theme and general look of the restaurant is changing, and there will be an additional space for private parties.
"The bar will be in the same position, but that is the only thing not changing about the space," said Carter. "Overall, everyone wanted to see some menu changes, so we took that to heart. We just want to better serve our customers so they have a better dining experience."
"We are getting all new equipment, wall coverings, flooring and furnishings. We wanted to update the space, and try to modernize and revamp the restaurant," said Casey Smith, administrative assistant for business operations division.
There will be two atmospheres for lunch and dinner, and it is expected that there will be slightly less seating than before.
"Based on what we are planning to do, I am really excited and I think our customers will really like it, too," said Smith. "It is going to be really different than what is already available on post."
The renovation is being funded by private business money, non-appropriated fund money, and the entire staff was placed at other installation positions during the renovation, said Carter, so no one lost their jobs.
While The Landing Zone is under construction, there are other Directorate of Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation, and Army and Air Force Exchange Service dining facilities that offer top-notch service and some of the best food around.
"We are very proud of our ability to provide top-quality food and beverage facilities to our Fort Rucker community. Our chefs do an outstanding job to provide the best culinary delights to suit any taste bud," said Janice Erdlitz, DFMWR marketing director.
Whether grabbing a burger while bowling a game with friends, eating out on a date or stopping in at Divots after playing 18 holes of golf, DFMWR has several options for affordable and casual dining.
Divot's Restaurant and Grille in Bldg. 20067 is open Mondays --Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Fridays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and weekends from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. It offers sandwiches, burgers, salads, wraps and wings.
"You don't have to be a golfer to appreciate the beautiful views and delicious food that Divot's has to offer. Patrons can experience an impressive lunch and drink menu, while enjoying a lovely, panoramic view of the blue course," said Erdlitz.
Rucker Lanes Bowling Center in Bldg. 9227 offers a café inside, which is open Mondays--Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to midnight. The menu offers burgers, sandwiches and pizza.
"Unwinding at the bowling alley for the Lunch and Bowl lunchtime special is fun. All Lunch and Bowl options include two games of bowling and a shoe rental," she said.
There is a Coffee Zone located in Lyster Army Health Clinic, Bldg. 5700, to help diminish the crave for caffeine and espresso that some people can't live without. It is open Mondays through Fridays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Another choice for people to enjoy is Mother Rucker's, which is now open for lunch for the duration of The Landing Zone's renovation.
Mother Rucker's is located in Bldg. 319 and is open seven days a week from 4-11 p.m. Its temporary lunch hours are Mondays--Fridays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Children are allowed into the facility during lunch hours only. It is open to the public, ages 18 and older at 4 p.m.
"Mother Rucker's has a roadhouse-type of feel with burgers, sandwiches, wings, pizza, nachos, soups and salads, fried pickles, crab bites, chicken tenders, onion rings and more," said Carter. "We have added to their menu to make it larger for lunch while we are closed."
There are other options on post provided by Army and Air Force Exchange Service. Those options are located inside the post exchange and at Burger King.
The food options inside the PX are Subway, Popeye's, Anthony's Pizza and Charley's Grilled Subs.
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