On September 5, 2005, I bought Pat’s Bar, thinking this would be easy. It was not, but it was still the best decision of my life (other than asking Jana to marry me).
I think what I’ll miss the most is the people. Some have passed away, like Gene, Harry, and Ray, the owners of Pat’s Bar with whom I developed genuine friendships; in many ways, Gene was a teacher to me—such a wonderful man. Then there’s my buddy Teddy, who lived above Guppy’s back in the day, or Mike, who lived a few doors down; he would always stand at the same spot (there’s a plaque there now) and order to go but stayed for hours making everyone’s day a bit better. They came in as clients, but they all found a place in my heart. I like to think Mike, Teddy Ray, Gene, and Harry all check in on Guppy’s from time to time for a Bud Light or a Teddy Tini.
So many of my great friendships started with me saying welcome to Guppy’s. I met Jana at Guppy’s. Many of my friends met their husbands and wives there. In fact, Conshy Crushes, I’m told, is why some kids are running around the 19428.
I’m proud Guppy’s was able to serve so many great causes. People like Stephane and John Strotbeck lost their son Wylie at a young age to brain cancer but found the strength and courage to dedicate their lives to raising hundreds of thousands of dollars to help find a cure (Wylie’s Day). They taught me what true love, kindness, and courage are.
I met Janie Carbo when she was less than two years old. She has a rare illness, with only 26 documented cases, and was given only a few years to live. She’s 20 now and a legit miracle, and there is no question in my mind that Janie’s a teacher to all who are fortunate enough to know her.
As the owner of Guppy’s, I had opportunities to help out families, but I feel like I got more than I gave. This includes incredible forever friendships and all the real stuff in life that fuels your heart.
When COVID hit, the restaurant/bar owners community led by Bill Weber of Flanigan’s Boathouse looked out for each other and helped each other during scary times. I’m grateful for you all. I’ll say this: Conshohocken is blessed by the most amazing group of caring restaurant owners. They are a huge part of our caring community. Brian Pieri, thank you for always answering my “what would Brian do” calls.
So many of Gup’s former employees are now lifelong friends to each other. I love that! Lory thank you for being Guppy’s mama. You’re tough, but your heart is pure, and you have cultivated such a genuine Guppy’s family with staff and some of our lucky clients. I’m thrilled Rick and Gale see you for the gem you are. I hope all my staff will still see me as part of that family after the sale.
Every inch of 2 Maple Street holds terrific memories.
My phone has been blowing up with people wishing me well and sharing their memories of Guppy’s. I’m not gonna lie-I got emotional. It’s been my honor to run Guppy’s and be a part of this amazing community for almost 20 years.
March 23rd will be my last day hanging out at Guppy’s with friends and clients as the owner. I look forward to hearing all your memories and walking down memory lane, so please come in and talk to me. I picked my three favorite performers from the last 20 years to perform: Jamie Salvatore, David Duong, and Tim Williams. Live music starts at 3:00 p.m. There will be a free food buffet from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.. There will be $6 Conshy Crushes and $4 Miller Lights until 10:00 p.m.
It will be nice to raise some funds for a great cause one last time, so there will be a suggested $10 donation to the Colonial Neighborhood Council (the local food bank). Guppy’s will match the first $1,000 donated, so let’s fill up the food bank. I’m looking forward to lots of hugs and stories from everyone!
From the bottom of my heart, thank you so much. One love.
Thank you to Chris and other investors who believed in me.
Rick and Gale, congrats. As you will see, there is real magic in these walls.
Photos: Robin Gupta