All of my friends asked me how I came up with an idea like the Turkey Grill. Well, it all started during my latter years in the corporate world as an Accountant. My colleagues and I would always have a hard time finding a good inexpensive place, with good food to have lunch. We grew very tired of the traditional fast food places-Hamburgers, Chicken, Fish etc... With only an hour break, there was never enough time or money to have lunch at the more lavish eateries. Then in 1989 I had a fresh new ideal, I decided to open a neighborhood place for friends and family with 4 criteria's in mind:
During my research I found that turkey was just the quality meat that I was looking
for and healthier. It was also very cost effective. I started to think of all the different recipes that could be prepared with Turkey.
Now I knew where my ultimate goal would lie. So I headed for my heritage in the good ole south where I would learn even more about Turkey. I was privileged with the secret authentic Cajun recipes of the Bayou people that have been handed down from generation to generation. The rich rebel turkey flavors of Mississippi and Alabama reminded me of eating at grandmas house as a young boy. The fried turkey was so good in South Carolina until I was tempted to put everything I tasted on the menu. The barbeque and smoked flavors used on the turkey legs in Texas were absolutely superb.
My research, on and off took about 5 years. Several changes occurred in my life, you know, marriage, then my son. I knew I had to make a move and it had to be now or never.
With a little luck and creativity in February 1996 the doors of the Woodward Avenue store flew wide open. And so I present to you- our loyal customers- the finest selection of Turkey under one roof, to showcase its own personal style, taste and culinary aspirations,
Thank you.
-Turkey Grill Owner and founder, Bugg Lyles.