Parker County Today Aug 2018 | Page 81

What is Drake’s Yoke?  If you haven’t had the opportu- nity to eat at Drake’s Yoke yet, it is a place unique to both Parker County and Texas. It is a southern kitchen serving all of Parker County, conve- niently located in Willow Park. One of the anchored businesses in the new Wilkes Development, Drake’s has been embraced by the commu- nity. Named after the persistent and resilient workers who raised Drake’s Yoke in the oilfield, the restaurant has all the ambience and atmosphere of a working rig.  “We are blessed to be in a great community with lots of love,“ Rhodes said. “They provide support through their marketing and I couldn’t think of a better place for us to be.” Decorated with what owner Ryan Stockard wanted in a restaurant, including the handmade taps behind the bar, it takes more than one visit to see all the different art objects, collectables and relics incorpo- rated into the décor throughout the restaurant. Stockard is the former managing partner of the Weatherford location of Copper Creek where Rhodes was executive chef. Stockard has also been running a successful business out of Abilene for over a decade. With a background at Pappadeaux and Pappa’s Brothers restaurants, Stockard brought all the strength and knowledge of the restaurant industry with him to his business, while bring- ing a unique experience to Parker County.  “Drake’s Yoke provides a dining experience and is one of the only open kitchens in Parker County with a fully open concept kitchen. We barbecue over mesquite and oak wood, with craft beers and hand- crafted cocktails. We have the ability and privilege to change someone’s attitude with not just a smiling face but with our food. If we affect your day in a positive manner, that is our privilege to do. If you want to make a change, be part of it,” he said.  Rhodes credits his knowledge of barbecue to his longtime friend Brian Krier, owner of Baker’s Ribs.  “I learned everything I know about barbecue from him. I worked with him for a number of years and I would give them the shirt off my back. The passion he has for his barbecue was instilled in me and the person that I am today. Seeing what he did day in and day out — he just does it all. That man and his wife do so much in their business that it will make your head hurt if you are not operating at that level,” he said.  79