Doc’s Diner in Loves Park targets late October reopening after fire
By Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
Get our mobile app
LOVES PARK — Doc’s Diner, a local staple known for its home-style meals, plans to reopen by the end of the month after a fire damaged the restaurant this summer.
The restaurant, 6499 N. Second St., was damaged after a fire broke out Aug. 20 during cleaning of the kitchen hood. No one was injured.
Owner Ron Krepfle said they’ve spent the past two months replacing equipment, installing new tiles, repainting, cleaning and otherwise giving the space the face lift it needed after the fire. The goal is to reopen Oct. 30.
“It’s been a nightmare,” Krepfle said Friday morning at the restaurant. “You go to bed thinking about it, and you wake up thinking about it. I don’t wish this on anybody.”
Doc’s Diner has been in business since 1990. Krepfle and his wife, Mary, purchased the business in 2010.
Insurance isn’t expected to cover all the costs of the damage. A GoFundMe was created shortly after the fire to help the couple raise the anticipated $30,000 they would need to cover the cost of repairs.
A buffet-style breakfast fundraiser is also being held Saturday morning at Neighbors Bar & Grill, 7745 Forest Hills Road, to support the owners and show the community’s appreciation for Doc’s Diner.
“This event is not just about raising money — it’s about showing love and support to a place that has always been there for our community,” organizers from Neighbors Bar & Grill said in a news release.
Krepfle said it has been a relief to see support from the community.
“It’s a blessing that all these people have come together for us,” he said. “People stop by every day, stopping in to see what’s going on or what they can do.”
How to help | Doc’s Diner fundraiser
What: Neighbors Bar & Grill is hosting a fundraiser to help cover costs of repairs after the fire and to show appreciation for Doc’s Diner. There will also be a performance by Rollin Dubs & Friends, as well as raffles, gift baskets and other surprises.
When: 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 18
Where: Neighbors Bar & Grill, 7745 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park
Cost: $15 per buffet-style plate. Non-alcoholic drinks included in the price.
Donate: A GoFundMe to support Doc’s Diner can be found HERE
This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on X at @KevinMHaas or Instagram @thekevinhaas and Threads @thekevinhaas
