February 14, 2011

Popeye's in Lake Geneva Celebrating 40 Years in 2012

Posted to Area Attractions & Events

Coming In 2012 - Popeye’s in Lake Geneva – 40th Anniversary

One of the most famous restaurants in Lake Geneva will be celebrating their 40th anniversary in June of 2012. The original Popeye’s Galley & Grog was a small but extremely popular, local watering hole, in the same general location as it is today. Through the years the Anagnos Family expanded their business to keep up with the times. I had the pleasure of waitressing at Popeye’s in 1979; in between college & working for Keefe Real Estate (in fact that’s where I met Mike Keefe, waiting on his business lunches which led to his offering me a job). The disco era was in full swing. Olive Oyl’s (Disco) was built with the creative influence of Nick & his talented & loyal carpenter Sam Tipton. It was a different era; we were open for after-bar-time breakfast & the disco was patronized by large groups of women who had attended shows at the Sugar Shack. Once the dance craze ran its course Olive Oyl’s was converted to very necessary additional seating. With another charming addition overlooking the lake, the outdoor barbeque, gift shop & more Popeye’s has never missed a beat pleasing its customers. Ahead of their time, as I left in 1980 we were training to use this thing called a computer to place our orders, while we were ON the floor. It could “talk” to the kitchen & save us all valuable time – amazing. Nick & Veronica’s sons Dimitri & Michael are now in charge – with Mom & Dad keeping a watchful eye. They continue the family’s tradition of top notch food, beverages & service. And I’ll share a secret, from a former insider – I have never seen a cleaner kitchen! In 2012 I predict some incredible 40th Anniversary events. Put it on your calendar because “You haven’t been to Lake Geneva ‘till you’ve been to Popeye’s”. Opa!!!


Why wait ‘till next year.  Come up for a day of skiing in Lake Geneva & head to Popeye’s for an après ski hot toddy. 

Posted by:  Marcy Hammett

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