Kermit Watts and his wife Melodie sit the new bar recently completed at Watts Cooking Friday. The remodel includes a new entrance. — Eric Johnson/photodesk@austindailyherald.com

Even though half of Watts Cookin’ was under construction for 17 days, owner Kermit Watts said they haven’t missed a beat.

The diner and truck stop just off Interstate 90 finished a complete remodel Friday of its dining room and bar area, and even though only the west half — or coffee shop portion of the diner — has been open during construction, Watts said they had about 80 to 90 percent of their regular business.

“It speaks loads about the loyalty of the customer base,” he said.

The remodel, designed and decorated by Kermit’s wife, Melodie, adds bar seating — which will accommodate beer, wine and liquor sales the diner

Watts Cooking new bar seating as seen from the new entrance.

started in January — along with TVs throughout the restaurant.

Watts said the diner will remain open 24 hours every day, keep its complete menu and continue to serve breakfast all day, but will add appetizers and other menu items in the coming months.

“This is just a continuation of making the truck stop the best it can possibly be,” he said.

Watts will also remodel the patio area and add outdoor liquor service this week, and will renovate the coffee shop area either this fall or early 2013.