If you’re a seafood lover in New York, chances are you’ve heard of London Lennies. The restaurant has been around for over 50 years and is known for its fresh seafood, lively atmosphere, and charming decor.
But who exactly owns London Lennies? Let’s dive in and find out.
History of London Lennies
London Lennies was founded in 1959 by Leonard “Lennie” Barnes and his wife Roslyn. The couple started out with a small seafood market in Queens, but as their reputation grew, they decided to expand into a full-service restaurant. The original location was on Woodhaven Boulevard in Rego Park, but in 1989 they moved to their current location on Cross Bay Boulevard in Howard Beach.
The Current Owners
Today, London Lennies is owned by the Barnes’ son Leslie and his wife Carolyn. The couple took over the restaurant in the early 2000s after working there for many years alongside Lennie himself.
Leslie Barnes
Leslie Barnes is a well-known figure in the New York City restaurant scene. He has been interviewed by numerous publications including The New York Times and has appeared on television shows like Anthony Bourdain’s “No Reservations.” He is known for his passion for seafood and commitment to quality.
Carolyn Barnes
Carolyn Barnes is also deeply involved in the day-to-day operations of London Lennies. She oversees everything from menu development to marketing to staff training. Her attention to detail has helped make London Lennies one of the most beloved seafood restaurants in New York City.
The Future of London Lennies
As Leslie and Carolyn continue to run London Lennies with the same dedication that made it successful under Leonard’s leadership, there are no plans to change the restaurant’s winning formula. They have, however, made some updates to the menu and decor over the years to keep things fresh.
Conclusion
In conclusion, London Lennies is a family-owned and operated restaurant that has been serving fresh seafood to New Yorkers for over 50 years. While the original founder Leonard Barnes has passed away, his legacy lives on through his son Leslie and daughter-in-law Carolyn.
They continue to honor his commitment to quality and hospitality while also putting their own stamp on the restaurant. If you haven’t been to London Lennies yet, it’s definitely worth a visit!