Our Story
Family-owned since 1950, serving Midwest communities with classic comfort food and warm hospitality.
Serving Comfort Food Made Fresh, Every Day
A Tradition of Comfort and Hospitality Since 1950
MCL Restaurant & Bakery was founded in 1950 by Charles McGaughey with a simple philosophy: serve made-from-scratch comfort food with genuine hospitality and great value. From the beginning, MCL was built around classic recipes, generous portions, and a welcoming dining experience that made guests feel at home.
Originally known as MCL Cafeterias, the brand later became MCL Restaurant & Bakery to better reflect its expanded menu and in-house bakery. While the name evolved, the core values never changed.
Today, MCL continues to be family-owned and operated under the leadership of Charles’s son, Craig McGaughey, who carries forward the same commitment to quality, consistency, and care that defined the restaurant from day one.
Made From Scratch, Served Cafeteria Style
For more than 75 years, MCL has relied on made-from-scratch recipes prepared fresh each day using high-quality ingredients. That dedication to homemade food and value has guided the brand since 1950 and remains at the heart of everything we do.
MCL is a cafeteria-style restaurant, allowing guests to move through the serving line and select their meals with ease. From classic entrées to homestyle sides and bakery favorites, every dish reflects the comfort-food traditions our guests know and love.
A Place for Families and Communities
For generations, MCL has been a place where families gather. Known for consistent quality, friendly service, and a relaxed atmosphere, the restaurant has built a loyal following among guests of all ages.
Deeply rooted in the communities it serves, MCL has earned the trust of guests who return week after week. That sense of familiarity and reliability is what continues to set MCL apart.
Private Event Rooms at MCL
Host your next gathering in a comfortable, welcoming space at MCL Restaurant & Bakery. Our private event rooms are ideal for family celebrations, group meals, business meetings, and special occasions of all kinds.
