After 20 years, the owners of Jacksonville restaurant and bakery The French Pantry have sold their business. But fans of the popular lunch destination don’t need to worry — the new owner plans on expanding.
The easiest way to spot The French Pantry is by the long lines stretching out the door and through the restaurant's parking lot on Powers Avenue.
But for customers like Hali Cole and Vicky Mossuto, the sometimes hour-long wait is more than worth it.
“It doesn’t bother me at all,” said Mossuto.
“I’ve never felt rushed,” said Cole. “I’ve never felt like it wasn’t worth it. It’s always been perfect.”
Tim and Barbara Felver opened The French Pantry 20 years ago. Now they’ve sold their business to John Valentino, the owner of several Jacksonville Mellow Mushrooms and co-owner of Uptown Kitchen & Bar and Burrito Gallery.
However, the Felvers will continue running The French Pantry. Tim says he’s optimistic about the restaurant’s future, including the opening of a second location.
Longtime customers like Joe Livingston and Larry Levy say they’ll follow The French Pantry for two main reasons.
Levy said, “The food is amazing.”
“And the people too," Livingston added, "They’re good people.”
