The Oil Lamp Restaurant– Judy Wenger celebrates being in business for 20 years

On September 9, 1996 Judy Wenger opened the doors of The Oil Lamp Restaurant in Perry. Since then she has been serving up some of the best southern style, home cooked meals. Wenger had always enjoyed cooking so one day she thought why not make a living off of what you love.

“I actually first opened my restaurant in Fort Valley,” said Wenger. “I was there four years, and then took a year off. When I was ready to get back in the business I wanted a different change of pace.”

Wenger ventured her way to Perry, and found Perry. She even did her own traffic study before deciding on a location.

“I noticed that Courtney Hodges Boulevard had a lot of traffic,” said Wenger. “So I one day found a spot, and counted all the cars that drove by from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.. It was a good amount so I opened up my restaurant 20 years ago.”

Wenger’s first location in Perry was right across from where Centennial Park, and then later moved to her current location 401 Courtney Hodges Blvd. for expansion. On Wednesday, Sept. 7, the Perry Area Chamber of Commerce and Business Development Committee recognized and presented a plaque to Wenger for her milestone of being in business for 20 years.

“I personally have been visiting The Oil Lamp since day one,” said Perry Chamber Director of Member Services Kristen Driggers. “It kind of feels like home here. You come in and get a home cooked meal, visiting with family, and Judy and her staff make you feel like you’re a part of their family.”

Wenger was overwhelmed by the all those who came to celebrate Wednesday, and their kind words. She said it has always been her goal to make everyone feel at home when they come to the restaurant.

“The people of Perry have really been great,” said Wenger. “I still have customers from the first day I opened come and eat, and that is wonderful feeling. I treat my customers the way I want to be treated which again is like family. Everything my staff and I make is fresh daily and our selection is different everyday. I think that’s another reason why we are so successful.”

Wenger said they use only the freshest and highest quality ingredients and actively support local growers and distributors. The Oil Lamp is committed to making each meal unique and the best our clients and their guests have ever consumed. She said they also offer catering on special request and pricing with an option of custom design menu and meal theme to fit your occasion or event.

If you have never tried The Oil Lamp they are open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and on Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information you can go online to www.theoillamp.com.

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