NC —1960s
3 boys, Nick, Chris and Tommy, working in their father’s restaurants. Restaurants with names that will ring a bell to those originally from that area: Town & Country Drive-In, Gondola Italian Restaurant, Tanner’s Snack Bar and Sandpiper Seafood Restaurant. They were pioneers in the Charlotte area, introducing the trend of the day, curb service and offering what would become mainstays to the American diet, pizza & hot dogs.
In 1977 Tommy went away to earn his MBA while Chris opened the Sandwich Construction Company. The restaurant became popular with NASCAR personalities and touted by radio legends John Boy and Billy.
Nick opened several restaurants beginning with the Captain’s Galley in Rock Hill, SC then Winnsboro and Chester. Tega Cay, south of Charlotte, became the location for another restaurant called Fishbone’s Grill. Each successful in their own right.
While on vacation Chris fell in love — with Holden Beach. He promptly moved and did what any self-respecting restaurateur would do. He opened Paradise Cafe! 10 years later Chris introduced Nick to Holden Beach. Nick moves in … and you got it, Castaways Raw Bar & Grill.
In January 2010, Chris and Nick (successful and a tad bored), get wind of what could be a fantastic location for a new restaurant in nearby Southport. Upon inspection their suspicions are right. They jump at the opportunity, called in Nick’s brother with the MBA and started gutting Capt. Henry’s! A half a million dollars later the new Atlantic Seafood and Steaks has a new modern commercial kitchen, new dining facilities and a completely new menu.
Today, Nick, Chris and Tommy are extremely pleased. What they saw was a need for a full service (not buffet) year round restaurant in the area rather than another seasonal operation. That vision has proven successful. Additionally, they hope to work with local schools, churches and other charitable organizations organizing fundraisers as a way to thank the community for their support.
