Palm Beach diners were abuzz with the news: John G’s, a beloved family restaurant, has been sold. Wendy Yarbrough, with a touch of emotion, confirmed the sale, signaling the end of an era for the iconic eatery founded by her father, John Giragos. After 46 years of serving generations of loyal customers, the family has passed the torch, but not without careful consideration for the restaurant’s cherished legacy.
The decision to sell John G’s was not taken lightly. The family, including Wendy and her brothers Jay and Keith Giragos, meticulously selected the new owners from a pool of eager bidders. “They’ve taken on a monster. I think they’ll do just fine,” Wendy remarked, acknowledging the enormity of the task in maintaining the restaurant’s esteemed reputation. For Wendy, turning 60 and the aftermath of Jay’s motorcycle accident prompted the move towards retirement. Jay, a cook at the restaurant, has been particularly frustrated by his limitations following the accident, adding to the family’s decision to seek new ownership.
John G’s, a Palm Beach institution, has thrived for nearly a decade at its current Manalapan location, becoming synonymous with Sunday morning gatherings for countless families. Its journey began 46 years ago, establishing itself as a cornerstone of the Palm Beach dining scene. The new custodians of this legacy are Doris and Laurent Di Meglio, a Parisian couple renowned for their successful Casimir French Bistro in Boca Raton. While their background is steeped in French cuisine, breakfast service is a new venture for them. Ms. Yarbrough expressed confidence in the new owners, stating, “They’re counting on my staff and customers to help them,” highlighting the importance of continuity and community support in this transition.
John G's reopening in Palm Beach, Florida after sale to new owners, maintaining its iconic status.
Reassuringly for long-time patrons, the essence of John G’s Palm Beach will remain unchanged. The Di Meglios have acquired all the treasured recipes – from the famed clam chowder and refreshing gazpacho to the irresistible French toast and signature tartar sauce. Keith’s meticulously crafted soups, a labor of love, will continue to grace the menu, ensuring the familiar flavors that customers adore are preserved. The new owners also recognize the invaluable contribution of the long-tenured staff. During a staff introduction, Doris Di Meglio witnessed the remarkable loyalty firsthand, with servers like Heather marking 32 years, Beverly with 27 years, and Romeo, the busboy, with 15 years of dedicated service. “That’s my staff. They’re my family,” Wendy proudly declared, emphasizing the close-knit atmosphere that defines John G’s.
The news of the sale initially sent ripples of shock through the John G’s community. Customers, some with 25 years of patronage, expressed their surprise, with some jokingly suggesting a “last meal” at the restaurant under the old ownership. Wendy, however, urged continued support, “No! Come in and support the new owners,” emphasizing the importance of embracing the restaurant’s next chapter. The weight of the decision weighed heavily on Wendy, causing sleepless nights and anxiety. “My stress level is over the moon. It’s like walking down the aisle jitters. Are these the right people to take over my life? My dad’s legacy?” she confessed, revealing the personal significance of John G’s. Yet, she also conveyed resilience, “But we’re survivors. Look at all we went through and we’re still here.”
John G’s journey has been marked by resilience. Originally located in the old Lake Worth Casino building, the restaurant faced displacement in 2011 due to redevelopment. The move to Manalapan in 2011 presented its own challenges, described by Wendy as “the scariest year.” Despite enduring a bridge closure and plaza reconstruction shortly after relocating, the unwavering loyalty of their clientele sustained them. “Thank God my customers crawled over the construction to get to us. They’re so loyal. We did fine,” Wendy recounted, highlighting the deep connection with their patrons.
Looking ahead, some changes are on the horizon. While the beloved chocolate-covered strawberries, a Sunday morning tradition, will continue, the long-standing cash-only policy, a legacy of John Giragos, will be discontinued. “It’s time for that, too. It’s an inconvenience to be a cash-business in this day and age,” Wendy acknowledged, noting the servers’ enthusiasm for the change and the potential for increased spending. As Wendy steps into retirement, a mix of emotions prevails – sadness at relinquishing control, yet relief at embarking on a new phase. “I have no regrets, going in early all these years, kissing everyone goodbye in the dark. My kids are proud of me,” she reflected. With ten grandchildren in the family, none expressed interest in taking over the demanding restaurant business, leading Wendy to conclude, “They didn’t want all that work. It was a pretty good run, as my mom would say.”
Seeking solace and guidance, Wendy visited her parents’ graves, sharing the news of the sale. “I go talk to them all the time. I told them we sold the restaurant.” In her heart, she found peace and acceptance, imagining their response: “They said, ‘That’s OK. It’s time.'” And so, as John G’s Palm Beach transitions into new hands, it carries with it a rich history, loyal staff, cherished recipes, and the enduring spirit of the Giragos family, ready to embark on its next chapter while honoring its remarkable past.
