Casper's comes under new ownership

Iconic downtown Springfield restaurant Casper's is operating under new ownership.

Nonna’s Italian American Cafe owner Shawn Kraft and Nixon & Lindstrom Insurance CEO Trevor Crist purchased the business in July from Dan and Belinda Harriman, who had owned it since 1985.

"They wanted to retire," Kraft said. "Instead of something going away because someone wants to retire, why not pick it up and continue the tradition? It's a nostalgic thing."

Kraft, who declined to disclose the purchase price, said he has operated the restaurant at 601 W. Walnut St. since it reopened on Labor Day after its usual summer break. Though planning no changes to the four-employee restaurant, Kraft said a newly installed air conditioner unit could allow the new owners to open Casper's during the summer.

Kraft continues to operate his downtown and south-side Nonna's eateries.

Casper's, known for its signature chili, traces its roots back to 1909, according to Springfield Business Journal archives.