09/03/2024
A Bittersweet Farewell to Our South Flores Location
Today, we close a chapter that began in 1986. The South Flores location of our beloved restaurant has been the backdrop for countless memories—not just for our family, but for the community that has supported us for decades.
I often think back to my grandfather, who taught me how to care for every piece of equipment in this place. Every Monday, we’d spend time tinkering—cleaning the ice machine, vent hoods, fans, fryers, and griddles. And, of course, I loved when he’d turn up old country music, filling the kitchen with his warmth as he cooked with nothing but love. My grandmother, in her own way, made this restaurant her home. Every year, she’d go all out with Christmas decorations, transforming the space into something magical. I can still see her now, sitting at her table out front, cigarette in hand, chatting with customers who had become more like friends.
I remember watching my parents work tirelessly, putting in long hours to get the job done. Later, at my grandparents’ house, they’d reflect on the day, often saying, “They (customers) really our made us work hard for the money.”
I started working at the restaurant when I was 12, helping out on weekends or even after school. As a young teenager, many of my life’s decisions were made in the dish pit, washing dishes while dreaming of the future. This is where my family taught me the value of hard work, to appreciate what we had, and most importantly, to appreciate our customers—because they were everything to us.
My wife, Ana, later joined the business, quickly filling my grandmother’s shoes and ensuring that every customer felt like family. Despite spending most of her career in the beauty industry as an executive , she adapted quickly and developed a deep love for the restaurant—it truly shows in everything she does. I couldn’t be more proud to call her not only my wife but also my business partner. Now, seeing our young children helping with hosting on weekends, and watching our 19-year-old son step up to take the reins in the kitchen, has been truly priceless. My grandparents would be so proud to see how their legacy continues through us.
Over the years, we’ve had the pleasure of seeing generations of customers walk through our doors—watching their children grow up, and now even seeing those children bring in families of their own.
This restaurant was more than just a place to eat; it was a gathering spot, a place where people came together, connected, and shared moments that mattered. I was taught to pour all my love and talent into this business, and that’s what I’ve done, every single day.
Closing this location was never something we planned. It was out of our control, and it’s been a hard reality to face. We’ve outgrown this small, shanty building, and though we knew we needed more space, leaving behind the place where so many memories were made has been difficult.
But as we say goodbye to South Flores, we remind ourselves that it’s never the building that makes a place special—it’s the people. As the fourth-generation owner, I am committed to continuing our family’s legacy, serving food made with love, and providing the amazing service you’ve come to expect from us.
Though we’re closing this chapter, we’re excited about the future. This city is ready for more of what “Bobbie’s” has to offer, and we can’t wait to share it with you. Thank you for being a part of our journey, and we look forward to welcoming you to our new location soon.
With gratitude and love,
Greg
