In a heartwarming turn of events, a man celebrated the closing of his sandwich shop not with sorrow, but with a joyous occasion – his wedding. Josh Amidon, the owner of Gino’s Steak & Onion in Fayetteville, New York, known for its viral cheesesteak with “Malibu Barbie Dream Drizzle” sauce, decided to tie the knot with his partner, Joe, on the final day of business on July 14. The announcement was made public on Facebook on July 13, where Amidon invited the community to join in the festivities with free food and drinks as they bid farewell to the popular restaurant.
Amidon originally intended to have the wedding in the fall but expedited the plans after facing challenges with lease negotiations. Expressing disappointment over the failed deal with the landlord, Amidon graciously welcomed customers to partake in the celebratory event. The couple’s decision to open up their wedding to the public, trading gifts for cash donations in a tip jar, aimed to support the staff through the transition as the restaurant closed its doors.
Since acquiring the restaurant in 2020 during the pandemic, Amidon gained recognition for the unique creation inspired by the 2023 film Barbie, featuring the renowned “Malibu Barbie Dream Drizzle” sauce that captured the hearts and appetites of many. As the pink sauce became an overnight sensation, drawing a surge of customers to their small establishment in central New York, Amidon reflected on the honour it brought to their business.
Looking towards the future post-closure, Amidon hinted at various possibilities, including the potential for another location, developing a new concept, or exploring future partnerships. He shared aspirations of diving into personal projects like finishing his book or starting a podcast, amidst what he described as the aftermath of a midlife crisis catalysed by the restaurant’s closure.
The heartfelt gesture of commemorating the final day of business with a wedding not only signified the end of an era for Gino’s Steak & Onion but also highlighted the community spirit and resilience Amidon displayed throughout the challenging period. The outpouring of support and well-wishes from customers and well-wishers underscored the profound impact the sandwich shop had on its patrons, transcending beyond just a place for culinary delights.
As the doors of Gino’s Steak & Onion closed for the last time, Amidon expressed gratitude for the journey and hinted at the potential for new beginnings on the horizon. The unique blend of business acumen, creativity, and personal connection showcased by Amidon resonated with many, leaving a lasting imprint on the local community and garnering widespread admiration for his entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering dedication to his craft.
In a time where businesses face unprecedented challenges and uncertainties, the story of Amidon and Gino’s Steak & Onion serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and optimism that can blossom even in the face of adversity. Amidon’s decision to mark the end of one chapter with a celebration of love and unity not only encapsulates the essence of community spirit but also serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for others navigating similar paths in these turbulent times.