Historic King George II Inn Under New Ownership

New owners recently took over operations of the King George II Inn at the base of Mill Street in Bristol Borough.

Robert Strasser and Bruce Lowe, business partners from New Jersey, took the keys to the business recently from MaryJo and Lenny Demenczuk, who have operated the business for the past 33 years. There were several years in the 2000s when another couple owned the eatery and ended up closing it for a short period of time.

Strasser first heard of the King George in April 2014 when he was having lunch there with a colleague. During the lunch, Strasser met Lenny Demenczuk who told him to consider him when it came time to retire.

“The sale went smoothly,” Strasser explained. “The employees of the borough were instrumental in getting me all the information that we needed,” he continued.

Lowe said the businesses in the weeks they have owned it is brisk and given a boost from those wanting a bite or drink before or after seeing a show at the Bristol Riverside Theatre.

Strasser explained that the model for success is already present at the King George, and noted that there is no need to change any of the staff or way things are done at the restaurant. “We have a great staff and a great culinary team,” he stated.

In addition to the staffing, Strasser is also greatly pleased with the location, describing it as “ideal,” and enthusiastically expressing the fact that the prospect of waterfront dining is sure to draw business.

Strasser explained that the new ownership is looking to enhance services through specialty dinners, wine dinners and the like. “We’re looking to increase banquets by offering water front views, classic American contemporary food, and a warm and inviting ambiance.”

Before the sale of the restaurant took place, Strasser spent 30 days working with the Demenczuks in the restaurant. After these 30 days, the couple felt comfortable enough to sell the restaurant and head out across country. “They are very special people who care about the town of Bristol and their customers that they served for 33 years.”

The historic restaurant has been open for more than 330 years after it was started by Samuel Clift of Bristol as the Ferry House in 1681. George Washington is said to have slept in the inn before he was president.

The new ownership means that the restaurant and its owners will be on the fore front of giving back to the local community. “My business partner, Bruce Lowe, and I are committed to the local Bristol communities and supporting local charities. We’re excited to be a part of the local community and keeping the tradition of the historical King George II Inn alive.”