The Demolition of an Iconic Martin Restaurant
- Anthony Kathol
- Feb 6
- 3 min read
Over the past two evenings, during my rosary walk from my home to the airport, and back, I've observed that Martin is losing another iconic landmark. Since Thursday, February 5, 2026, I've watched as Tater's Restaurant (formerly known as Bingo's Casino and Drive-In Restaurant) be torn down. The building had been empty for years, and it was inevitable that the new owner would eventually demolish what had once been a local dining spot serving home-cooked food.
Demolition of Bingo's Casino and Dine-In Restaurant (February 5-6, 2026).
A Fond Memory of Eating at the Casino and Dine-In Restaurant
When I first moved to Martin in the spring of 2004, I would either go to the Markota Restaurant near the golf course, the H&H Bar and Grill off Highway 18, the Martin Livestock Cafe, or Bingo's Casino and Drive-In Restaurant located east of town to grab a wholesome meal. Bingo's changed ownership over the years, but when I moved to Martin in 2004, it was owned by Sherry (King) Wheeler, who operated it with her husband Richard (Butch) Wheeler. I remember Toni Milk sat behind the counter, taking my lunch order (burger, fries, and chocolate milkshake). A few of us from the Martin Field Office of the Indian Health Service would take our lunch break there or have a going-away celebration for one of our employees. The home-cooked meals served by Sherry and her team made it a beloved stop for locals. After Sherry owned it, I recall it being renamed Tater's Restaurant and Casino, but it was open for only a brief period before the restaurant closed permanently. The demolition of the iconic restaurant has caused me to pause to reflect on what this place meant to Martin.
A Staple of Martin’s Community Life
Bingo's Restaurant and Drive-thru was not just a business; it was a gathering place where stories were shared over hearty meals. When I arrived in Martin, Sherry and her team of cooks were well-known for serving up comfort food that reminded me of my days growing up at home. The sit-down drive-in restaurant on the north side of U.S. Highway 18, located east of town, was a convenient option for families and workers, making it a stop for many. I know that when I went there, it was a favorite lunch stop for our local UPS driver.
The building itself held decades of memories. It witnessed the changing face of Martin, from quiet days to bustling weekends. The fact that it went through several owners and even a name change to Tater's shows how it adapted to the town’s evolving needs while still holding onto its roots.
The Role of Bingo's in Martin’s Identity
Places like Bingo's Restaurant and Drive-In are more than just eateries; they shape the identity of small towns like Martin. For many locals, it was a place where families gathered, friendships formed, and the town’s character was reflected in every meal served, contributing to the town's economy and social fabric.
What the Demolition Means for Martin
The demolition of Bingo's Casino and Drive-In Restaurant marks the end of an era. While change is inevitable, losing a place with such deep roots in the community feels like losing a piece of Martin’s soul. It’s a reminder of how towns evolve and how important it is to cherish local landmarks while they last.
For those who grew up with Bingo's as part of their life, this moment calls for reflection. It’s a chance to remember the people who made the restaurant special, from Sherry and Butch Wheeler to Toni Milk, and the many team members who served me with care and welcomed me into this small-town community.
Looking Ahead: Preserving Martin’s Heritage
As Martin moves forward, it’s crucial to find ways to preserve its history. The story of Bingo's Casino and Drive-In Restaurant is a chapter in the town’s larger narrative and how it has shaped Martin's identity. Supporting local businesses, celebrating community stories, and encouraging new ventures that honor the past can help keep the spirit alive.
Places like Bingo's Casino and Dine-In Restaurant highlight how a small business like this shaped Martin’s identity. If you have fond memories of eating at Bingo's Casino and Dine-In Restaurant, please post in the comment section below to help keep its legacy alive.
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