Kelly Davis displays one of the many quilt pattern inside The Dresden Plate Family Dining.

DEKALB JUNCTION - The Dresden Plate, 4342 US Highway 11, is now open, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner with daily specials for dining in or takeout.

A grand opening is planned for Aug. 21 and 22 with hourly prize drawings, 25¢ cups of coffee, a free cookie with a meal purchase and an overall drawing at the end of the two-day event.

"The idea to open and operate a diner comes from my love of cooking that my Grandma Martin taught me as a child," said owner Kelly Davis.

With years of experience including weddings, birthday parties, family reunions, and more in preparing the meals, creating cakes, desserts and baked goods, Davis feels she is more than ready to reach her dream.

"My dream of opening my own family dining and baked treats business was put on hold while I raised my children. I knew the endeavor would require a tremendous time commitment and I did not want to take that time away from them,” she said.

The name Dresden Plate holds special meaning to Davis.

“My Grandma Martin was not only a great cook, but she also could prepare a meal out of nothing. Grandma was a very resourceful person I guess that is what comes from living through the Depression Era,” she said.

“In addition to cooking and baking, she made the most beautiful quilts from what materials she had on hand. While growing my sisters and I would rotate spending weekends at Grandma & Grandpa's house. Every third weekend was my weekend. During these visits, Grandma took the time to teach me how to cook, bake and sew. I'll always treasure the memories she made for me and the skills she instilled in me during those special weekends. This is how The Dresden Plate was born for me," she said.

Davis says that if customers have a favorite recipe from your grandma, to bring it in and they will make it.

“Stop by to check out the new renovations, the menu and to taste the home cooking…you will not go away hungry or disappointed." Davis said. "

Orders can be placed ahead of time by calling The Dresden Plate at 302-4075. Daily specials and the complete menu are on their Facebook page.