By Kate Bartlett
Owner and co-founder Michelle Turner is turning over the keys to the popular Lakewood restaurant Group Ther-Happy this Friday, May 3. Bartending Manager Jeremy Mescall and his girlfriend Erica Simpson are thrilled to be taking ownership of the restaurant and look forward to maintaining this local legend.
Michelle and Mary Rapaport purchased the property in 2016 and completely renovated and changed the dynamics of the restaurant. What was once dark and bland, became bright, fun and welcoming. As a Lakewood native and Real Estate Broker, Michelle had been in the market for a property to open a local restaurant. “This property was the perfect location being just steps from Chautauqua Lake with docking available and a high traffic area,” says Michelle. “I knew we could make it successful.”
The duo opened the doors to Group Ther-Happy on St. Patrick’s Day in 2018. The restaurant welcomed customers with bright décor and natural lighting in a fun lively atmosphere. With ample heated outdoor patio seating for 75+ and live music throughout the summer, customers have come from far and wide for a memorable dining experience. “We frequently meet new customers every day, and I don’t take that for granted. Our reputation has come to precede us, and I’m incredibly proud of that,” says Michelle.
The menu offers a wide variety of favorites including pizzas, pastas, salads, wings, fish fry, steaks and rotating specials on the weekend. Michelle is confident that they offer the best French Onion Soup in the county and almost everything is made in house. Their full bar offers craft cocktails, wine by the bottle and glass as well as bottled and tap beer. Five televisions ensure to provide optimum viewing for local and national sporting events, and their location on Chautauqua Lake ensures beautiful views year-round.
When Mary retired 3 years ago, Michelle began to think about phasing out and retiring herself. “I’m thankful I’ve had (my partner) Joe on my side to help with the daily operations, but it’s time to start slowing down and enjoying more time with my family. I’m incredibly grateful for the relationships I’ve built over the past 6 years and the support we’ve received from the community. We’ve always believed in giving to the community, and we’ve received fantastic support in return.”
Jeremy Mescall and his girlfriend Erica Simpson are the proud new owners of Group Ther-Happy come this Friday, May 3rd. Jeremy has been working in the industry since 2001 and has been a member of the Group Ther-Happy team as bartending manager. “Jeremy and I have a great relationship and I’m so happy to pass on restaurant to him and Erica.”
Michelle plans to help in the transition as much as possible in order to make it a smooth changeover. Jeremy was born and raised in Bemus, Erica from Panama, so both have roots in the community. “We’re thrilled to take over this restaurant and serve the community in this way,” says Jeremy. “We don’t plan to change much; Michelle has done an incredible job.”
Jeremy and Erica will continue the live music throughout the summer, with the addition of a local band Lenny and the Landshark every Thursday evening. Most of the menu will remain the same, with the addition of a few entrees.
“We have an incredible front and back of the house crew,” says Michelle. “We are proud of our strong, creative team and I’m looking forward to support Jeremy and Erica and they continue to offer the best service to our customers for many years to come.”
Visit Group Ther-Happy at 103 Chautauqua Avenue, Lakewood, NY and online https://www.groupther-happy.com/. Follow on Social Media or email grouptherappy@gmail.com