JEFFERSON CITY -- They come from all over the state to do the taxpayers business here in the Capital City. But they do more that that while they're in town. Legislators give downtown businesses a shot in the arm, right when they need it the most.
Business is good at Prison Brews and it's even better when lawmakers are back in town.
"One side to the other side of the state coming in,” Prison Brews manager Steve Whitener said.
Whitener says the lunch crowd's picked up since the session started.
"Legislators are in town now,” Whitener said. “Seems that we're picking up business a little more. They're hitting us for lunch."
And when politicians come in and open their wallets, one thing on the menu seems to stand out.
"Our pizza is probably the most popular from our wood fire pizza oven,” Whitener said.
This is the microbrewery's second year in business so they haven't kept track of how much more money comes in during the session. But managers say, it makes a difference.
The city's chamber of commerce agrees.
"It's definitely a big boon to the town,” Mark Mehmert, with the Jefferson City Chamber of Commerce, said.
The chamber works with downtown businesses to try and drive traffic into stores and restaurants. It's not always easy. Especially during the cold winter months.
"When the legislature reconvenes, it's a real boost,” Mehmert said. “No doubt about it. You see more people downtown, more activity, more folks in the shops."
Which is why all the state reps, senators and their staff will always be welcome at one downtown watering hole.
"They seem to like our pizzas and they all seem to like our beer,” laughs Whitener.
Let us know your favorite downtown businesses and restaurants by leaving a comment on the story.
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