Poor Richard's History
Poor Richard's Cafe began as Park Mall Coffee Shop back in 1973. Later the name changed to Park Mall Restaurant. In the 80's shortly after Richard bought it, he decided to give the restaurant a name that the customers could relate to, rather than being named after the shopping center location. So with Richard 's background as a high school English teacher for 15 years before venturing into the restaurant business, he came up with an idea. One of his favorites in teaching was Ben Franklin and Franklin's Poor Richard's Almanac, so it was only natural that the name Poor Richard's Cafe evolved.
The restaurant for over thirty years was always a breakfast and lunch Texas cafe. In the 1970's and 80's locals, builders, farmers, construction and business people frequented the restaurant when Plano was going through its rapid expansion of housing and city infrastructure. The consistent home cooking, reasonable prices and great service kept bringing the customers back on a regular basis.
In the 80's and 90's Richard gradually expanded the menu from 60 items to over 120 items. New menu items and the appeal of comfort food attracted a new customer base consisting of business people and families who enjoyed the home cooking and the friendly waitstaff. Many of Poor Richard's employees have been working here for over 15 years. It is a good place to work and it is great place to eat. The restaurant has become so popular that its reputation is almost legendary in Plano. When people have guests from out of town, they definitely bring them to Poor Richard's for the food and experience.
Regular customers like being recognized by the staff and Richard. They know that their business is appreciated. They feel comfortable here whether alone or with a big group of co-workers or their family. A "Regular" is someone who frequents the restaurant 3 to 5 days a week or almost every weekend. They comprise 80 to 85% of Poor Richard's business. With 100 plus items on the menu, they have plenty of choices to keep them coming back.
