By Darlene Brace
It has been almost a year since Jeremy Mescall and Erica Simpson purchased Group Ther-Happy in Lakewood from the previous owner, Michelle Turner, who had opened the establishment in 2018. Located at 103 Chautauqua Avenue, Group Ther-Happy is a successful craft pizza bar and tavern that has become an integral part of the community, flourishing in the heart of the Village of Lakewood.
When Michelle decided to retire from the restaurant last year, it created an exciting opportunity for Jeremy and Erica. Both Jeremy and Erica are from the area, so they have strong ties to the community. Jeremy has been involved in the restaurant business for many years, which provided them with valuable insight. He had been working at Group Ther-Happy as the bartending manager before taking on his new role as co-owner with Erica, when they officially became the owners in May 2024.
Jeremy and Erica were familiar with Group Ther-Happy’s operations, and it was a smooth transition to new ownership. They maintained the restaurant’s beloved vibe while adding their touch. They preserved Michelle’s foundation and kept most of the menu and staff. They are grateful for their incredible team, as they feel it is one of the reasons for their success in providing quality food and service.
entertainment. Inside, you’ll fi nd a cozy mix of seating options. There is bar
seating for about 20 people if you prefer to relax at the bar. You can also
choose to gather around high-top tables or dine at one of the comfy lower
tables. The atmosphere is friendly, chic, and energetic but gives a vibe that
still feels relaxing. One of the restaurant’s highlights is the spacious outdoor
patio, which is a real treat when the weather is nice.
Group Ther-Happy is the perfect year-round spot for delicious food and fun entertainment. Inside, you’ll find a cozy mix of seating options. There is bar seating for about 20 people if you prefer to relax at the bar. You can also choose to gather around high-top tables or dine at one of the comfy lower tables. The atmosphere is friendly, chic, and energetic but gives a vibe that still feels relaxing.
One of the restaurant’s highlights is the spacious outdoor patio, which is a real treat when the weather is nice. It opens in the spring, gets quite busy through summer, and continues to be open into the fall. There is plenty of shade from umbrellas to keep you cool on those hot sunny days. On the patio with the music playing, it practically gives you a vacation getaway vibe that almost makes you forget that you are still in New York. The patio is now open for the 2025 season, weather permitting.
In late fall and winter, it transforms into a warm haven, perfect for both small get-togethers and larger gatherings. Additionally, they host Buffalo Bill’s Nights with drink and food specials as well as an NFL package that allows them to air any game that is being televised. Several televisions provide the community with viewing of local and national sporting events. Along with this, they have Wing Night every Thursday and often have Trivia nights to give customers something to do during the colder months.
Group Ther-Happy offers a delicious and diverse menu. Their craft pizzas range from classic favorites to specialty flavors, including Hawaiian and chicken wing pizza, or you can even build your own. In addition to amazing pizzas, they serve a variety of tasty sandwiches, wings, entrees, and appetizers. A crowd favorite is the giant pretzel, which you can enjoy plain or add toppings like bacon and cheese.
At the bar, they have a fantastic selection of craft beers, domestic beers, and beer on tap, as well as a variety of wines from sweet to dry. If you’re in the mood for something mixed, they also serve refreshing margaritas, mojitos, and classic cocktails.
Group Ther-Happy has live music year-round on Saturday evenings and occasionally on other nights. During the summer, they also have live entertainment on Sunday evenings from 5-8pm. All year round, they support local musicians. They also bring in entertainers from Erie, Buffalo, Warren, and beyond.
Group Ther-Happy is a well-established part of the community. They have been actively involved by participating in events like Christmas in the Village, hosting outdoor movie nights, and other events. They remain actively involved in the summer and fall festivals in Lakewood and are especially excited about the upcoming Rock the Lake live music series that will be at Lakeside Park this summer, which is expected to draw more visitors to their restaurant and the rest of the village.
Group Ther-Happy is a popular spot in Lakewood, open from 11am-10pm on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, and stays open until 12am on Friday and Saturday, with the kitchen closing at 9pm each night. It offers a fun and comfortable atmosphere for great meals and fun entertainment year-round. For the menu and updates on live music and specials, visit groupther-happy.com, check their Facebook page, or call (716) 526-1067. If you haven’t been to Group Ther-Happy yet, you’re missing out. Make sure to visit sometime soon and see what it’s all about. The restaurant is located at 103 Chautauqua Avenue in Lakewood, NY. You can reach them by calling (716) 526-1067 and you can see more detail on their website: www.groupther-happy.com and on their Facebook page.