Lynch sisters toast end of an era

Lynches Pub & Grub founders Chris and Ethna Lynch commemorated the past and looked ahead to the future April 19, when Jason Burns officially took ownership of the restaurant.

 “I’m excited to take this business on and continue the great traditions of Lynches,” Burns said. “It’s great seeing customers the sisters haven’t seen in a while.”

Ethna Lynch moved to the U.S. from Ireland in 1972, and Chris Lynch followed shortly in 1974. The sisters moved to Longboat Key in 1982 and opened Lynches Landing in 1986 on the Key. In 2003, the Lynches opened Lynches Pub & Grub on St. Armands Circle and closed Lynches Landing a few months later.

“Twenty-nine years is a long time for people to support us, and it means a lot,” Ethna Lynch said. “We’ve whipped Jason into shape and are excited for him to do a great job. We will still serve as ambassadors for Lynches and help whenever we’re needed.”

Regular customers, former employees and well-known faces attended the celebration.

“I’m really happy for the sisters,” said Gillian McCormack-Aeppli, who has danced at every Lynches St. Patrick’s Day celebrations since 1992. “They’ve worked really hard, and they deserve to retire. They’re leaving it in good hands and keeping all the traditions. I’m excited. I wish them the best.”

Many restaurants face constant turnover with employees, but not Lynches. Several employees have worked for the sisters for years and even decades.

“It’s wonderful, absolutely wonderful,” Glenda Grause, a 29-year former employee of Lynches said. “We’ve had a great 29 years. We’re all so happy for the sisters.”

“This feels awesome. Tomorrow, I’m retired. We plan to travel, travel, travel. Next week, we’re going to New York City, the week after the Bahamas, then Ireland the next week, then the Bahamas again. Then, we’ll come home in June and do our laundry.”

— Chris Lynch