During the eight years that the Ramsey's Diner on Harrodsburg Road has been open, there have been a lot of changes in the area. The south side has seen a tremendous increase in development; there are shops and roads where once there was not much more than a tree-lined two-lane highway.
But there are some things that have stayed blissfully the same: Ramsey's trademark comfort food, its uniform neckties, its sinful pies, and one of its favorite daughters, bartender Severn Miller.
It's a sweet, lilting voice that emanates from behind the bar asking what it will be for tonight, but don't be fooled: Miller also keeps things moving at an efficient pace behind the bar. She's always buzzing around delivering dishes and drinks, then picking them up and refilling them, checking on the customers' comfort and taking the time to get to know most of them by name and ask about the latest events of their lives.
Miller presides over the bar like a perfect hostess or protective mama, and the often crowded bar of regulars almost feels like a raucous family dinner on many evenings. Stop by some time and let her mix up a special drink for you, but get there early or you'll be waiting for a seat.
Meet Severn
Full name: Severn Anderson Miller
What's in a name: "Severn is the river dividing England and Wales."
Family: Mom, dad, two brothers, one sister and three nieces
First car: "A 1973 Dodge Dart Swinger painted white with gold flake, a black hard top and fuzzy leopard interior." (She still has it)
First job: "Well, my first job was at Kenny Roger's Roasters, but that's not nearly as exciting as 'carnie.' I also ran games at events, painted faces and made cotton candy."
Childhood ambition: "I always wanted to be on stage. I had my own personal theater. I guess it's like the bar, though, people only come in if they like you."
Favorite Food: "Truthfully? Salad of every kind. I eat it for breakfast, lunch and dinner."
Favorite drink to make: Cosmo
Favorite drink to drink: Bloody Mary
Best Ramsey's memory: The Pig Roast
Favorite tie design: "Big ugly ones that look like they came from the back of someone's husband's closet."
Favorite Missy's pie: "It's always been peanut butter."
Favorite quote: "'The sun also shines on the wicked.' - Seneca. Or maybe 'He gave her a look you could pour on a waffle.' I don't know who said that one."