A message from Steve Baker, Jr., the new owner of Tommy’s:
I did something today. It still feels surreal. I started at Tommy’s restaurant in the early ’90s as a dishwasher under Larry McMann. During this time I met many great people who have helped me through the years. (Too many to mention!)
In 1999, I finished trade school and was moving on from this industry. I told the owner, Jim Ashley I’d never be back. He looked at me dead in the eye and said, “You’ll be back, buddy. You’re meant for this business.” He was right. I lasted just about a year as a 12-volt technician. I had way too much pride to let Jim know he was right, so I went on to Perkins restaurants where I quickly moved through the ranks and learned how to control the financial aspect of restaurants.
In 2015 Jim called me and wanted someone to run Tommy’s that he could trust and start to slow down a little … so September 2015, I walked back into Tommy’s as the restaurant manager. I could not have made it to this point without all the support I received from people, even when I didn’t believe in myself. When I was ready to throw in the towel, you all helped push me through. I also could not have achieved this success if it wasn’t for the amazing group of employees, who come in every day and give their all, and continue to make Tommy’s the success that it is.
I start a new chapter in my life, not as the store manager of Tommy’s, but as the new owner.
As of Dec. 2, I have purchased my very first restaurant and am excited and nervous for what’s to come. A big thank you to everyone who helped me grow and get to this point. I love you all. ♥️
