Scott Johnson: “I’m very confident we’ll find a buyer for Sperry’s who will keep it as Sperry’s”
All photos provided by Roohan Realty
By Saratoga Report Publisher Dan De Federicis
Despite a purchase deal falling apart and the subsequent closure of Sperry’s Restaurant, managing partner Scott Johnson told Saratoga Report he is upbeat about the restaurant’s prospects. “I’m very confident we’ll find a buyer for Sperry’s who will keep it as Sperry’s,” he said. “There is a long tradition of Sperry’s in Saratoga and we have no intention of permanently closing it.”
Johnson, who served three terms as Saratoga Springs Mayor from 2008-2013, led his partnership in the purchase and running of the restaurant at 30½ Caroline Street since its 2010 purchase. He told Saratoga Report that his intention was to find a buyer that recognizes what Sperry’s means to Saratoga. Asked if he would reopen should the property remain unsold into summer, he replied that right now he is focused on the sale of the restaurant and property.
Asked about the failed purchase deal and reports that the potential buyers pulled out after a building inspection, Johnson noted that the main building was built in 1915 and would only say “we disagreed on some of the findings.” He declined to identify the would-be purchaser, citing confidentiality. “Any older building should be treated differently than new construction,” he said. “I improved much of the building in the 13 years that I owned it.”
Sources to Saratoga Report have indicated the would-be buyers included owners of Solevo Restaurant on Phila Street. Saratoga Report left a phone message with staff at Solevo seeking comment from Solevo ownership, but it was not returned.
The restaurant is back on the market, listed by Amy Sutton and Gerard Wise of Roohan Realty. “Celebrities, rock stars and governors have all enjoyed the food and ambiance that has made Sperry’s a Saratoga Springs tradition”, said Tom Roohan, owner/broker of Roohan Realty. “I remember my dad having dinner with Governor Pataki at Sperry’s. Although we are disappointed that the previous transaction communicated this month did not work out, we are confident that Scott and Julie Johnson’s love and care of this great establishment have made it attractive as a fantastic turnkey opportunity.”
Johnson noted the restaurant, which has been operating as Sperry’s since 1932, had two showings this week. “For decades, Sperry’s has been part of the fabric of Saratoga Springs,” he said. “I want to recognize and thank all of our customers for their support over the years.”