Nestled in the heart of Plantersville, Texas, the Relay Station is more than just a restaurant and event venue — it’s a piece of Texas history built on faith, family, and tradition.

 

The story begins in 1968, when Jim and Ann McMurrough purchased a small roadside spot and opened the Gypsy Idol Inn, serving beer and barbecue to-go. A few years later, the business was sold to Leon “Sheriff” and Edna Ingram. In 1976, during America’s bicentennial celebration, the Ingrams renamed the restaurant The Relay Station — a patriotic name that still proudly hangs on the front of the building today. Back then, the restaurant was a tiny diner with just 20 seats, where good food and warm hospitality brought locals together.

 

In 1985, the Jollisant family purchased the Relay Station. With them came a Texas-sized idea: the Famous 85oz Sirloin Challenge — the biggest steak in Texas. It quickly became a tradition that put Relay Station on the map and brought steak lovers from near and far to Plantersville. That same year, Sandra Jollisant began working with her father at the restaurant, stepping into management and carrying on the family’s passion for food and people.

 

By 1991, Sandra married Tim Kuta, a lifelong farmer known for raising cattle, swine, and the well-loved “Kuta melons.” Tim’s roots in farming paired perfectly with Sandra’s heart for hospitality. Together, they purchased the Relay Station in 1992, turning it into what it remains today: a true family-owned and operated, All-American restaurant. Their four daughters all grew up working in the restaurant, making it a home as much as a business. Today, even the grandchildren are part of the tradition — often selling fresh vegetables and watermelons from Family Farms out front of the restaurant.

 

At Relay Station, farm-to-table isn’t a trend, it’s a way of life. Fresh produce from Family Farms makes its way straight to your plate, just as it has for generations. The food is hearty, homemade, and filled with Texas flavor — from hand-cut steaks and chicken fried favorites to peach cobbler served warm with ice cream.

 

The Relay Station has always been deeply tied to the community. Over the years, Tim and Sandra have proudly supported the Junior Livestock Show, contributed to the Shriners, and opened their doors to provide opportunities for those in recovery.

 

In 2017, the family expanded with the Relay Station Event Center. What began as a simple pavilion overlooking a roping arena has grown into a rustic, full-service wedding and event venue. Designed and built by Tim and Sandra, the space features a breathtaking 60-foot waterfall, handcrafted cedar tables, and reclaimed wood and tin from local historic buildings. The venue reflects the same values as the restaurant — affordability, authenticity, and a commitment to making every celebration special.

 

Today, the Relay Station stands as a proud reminder of what matters most: Faith, Family, and Farming. Whether you’re taking on the 85oz Sirloin Challenge, celebrating your wedding by the waterfall, or simply sharing a meal with family and friends, the Relay Station is a place to gather, to remember, and to savor life’s best moments.