It was recently announced that five new tenants would be heading to the Gateway in the University District. Good Night John Boy, a 70s-themed bar and restaurant conceptualized by the brains behind Flipside up at Easton, is just one of them, and it’ll open up in the old Oxley’s space later this year.
First introduced in Cleveland, Good Night John Boy will bring a retro dynamic to the new development at the Gateway. The name is a nod to The Waltons, a TV show that ran in the 70s and 80s whose lead character was John Boy, the eldest son of the Walton family. Each night, the family would say good night to each member.
The fast-casual restaurant features a small, “focused and centered” menu, says co-owner Bobby Rutter. It offers eight varieties of sandwiches, including breakfast, hot chicken, turkey melt, and more, all built on biscuits. It’s complemented by a seasonal cocktail menu that’ll also have a few retro aspects to it, with Tang mentioned as a contributing ingredient.
Situated in the University District, the 70s references may very well go over the heads of Good Night John Boy’s target demographic. But Rutter said the price point — $8-11 per meal — and the simplicity of the concept will keep guests coming back.
Their space, which sits at 1576 N. High St., offers roughly 3,000 square feet, enough room for 90 occupants. Although its opening is planned for later this year, Rutter couldn’t offer a definite opening date.
Good Night John Boy is owned by Forward Hospitality Group, which owns seven other concepts around the state, including Flipside and 3 Palms Pizzeria.
For more information, visit fwdhospitality.com.