TAMPA, Fla. — Wright’s Gourmet House may have new owners, but its 60-year legacy of fresh craft sandwiches and decadent desserts is sure to continue.
For years, Jeff Mount built upon the institution created by his grandparents, Marjorie and Pete Wright, who opened Wright’s Gourmet House on April 20, 1963.
Now, Mount is handing over the reins to another third-generation Tampa restaurant family. Wright's is now owned by Caspers Company, led by siblings Blake Casper and Allison Casper Adams.
If you haven't heard of Caspers Company, maybe you've heard of some of its iconic local restaurants: Oxford Exchange, The Library, Predalina, The Stovall House and, for decades, dozens of McDonald's locations.
Mount said the Caspers "know this business inside and out."
"Wright’s has a special place in the hearts of so many, and we are honored Jeff chose us to help preserve and build upon his family’s rich heritage,” Blake Casper said. "Tampa has lost too many of its storied restaurants, and it is our privilege to become Wright’s custodians for years to come.”
And good news for longtime Wright's patrons — Mount says they shouldn't expect anything different than the fresh deli menu, unrivaled quality and warm hospitality they've had for decades.
"The customers will let the new owner know he doesn't need to change anything, or he better not," customer Caroline Noble joked.
"We get like a pie anytime there's like a holiday, cakes whenever we feel like treating ourselves," Richard Stull, another customer, added. "Yeah, [it's] just a staple."
While Mount did not disclose details of the sale, he was happy to share that the legacy of Wright's Gourmet House will live on — not just as a memory, but as part of family traditions for years to come.
"It absolutely does make you well up. Why shouldn't it? Wonderful memories, what a great staff," Mount said through tears.