<p>The popular southern seafood restaurant and night spot in Oak Bluffs was sold to new owners on Wednesday by longtime owner Kathy Domitrovich.</p>
Lola’s restaurant in Oak Bluffs was sold to new owners this week for $2.3 million.
Nancy’s Snack Bar owner Doug Abdelnour Jr. said he has been in talks with owners for years about taking over the spot.
Nancy’s Snack Bar owner Doug Abdelnour Jr. said he has been in talks with owners for years about taking over the spot.
Longtime owner Kathy Domitrovich confirmed earlier in the week that she planned to close on a sale of the Beach Road establishment to New Bedford businessman Horacio Tavares.
The sale went through late Wednesday afternoon; the buyer of record is H&M M/V, an LLC with an Oak Bluffs address.
Mrs. Domitrovich also said the restaurant will be managed by Doug Abdelnour Jr., the owner of Nancy’s Snack Bar in Oak Bluffs.
Reached by telephone Monday, Mr. Abdelnour declined to go into specifics about his plans for the restaurant, but he said the space will remain a bar and restaurant with live music.
“It’s going to be very similar to what’s there. The menu and bar might be a little different,” he said.
Mr. Abdelnour said he has been in talks with the owners for five years about taking over the popular night spot on Beach Road, long known for its seafood, southern-style hospitality and dancing.
“I really loved the location since I was a kid. My dad used to have holiday parties hosted there . . . it’s a great space and I really like Kathy,” Mr. Abdelnour said. “I think that if we’re the ones who are able to give it a little bit of new life, I’d be excited to do that.”
Horacio Tavares, who also owns a home in Oak Bluffs, is the owner of Horacio’s Welding and Sheet Metal Inc. in New Bedford. He could not be immediately reached for comment.
Mrs. Domitrovich admitted that it will be bittersweet to leave the restaurant she has owned and managed for 25 years with her husband Paul Domitrovich, who died last year. She said it’s been difficult to run the restaurant herself since his death.
Farewell party begins Friday at 8 p.m. All are welcome; there is no cover charge.
Farewell party begins Friday at 8 p.m. All are welcome; there is no cover charge.
“My husband was the front and center of the restaurant,” she said. “I think that’s a big reason why it’s time. There’s days people come in and look for him. We enjoyed so many happy times there. That’s what I’ll miss most. There’s an old Greek mentality that you have to drop dead in your restaurant, but I’m not going to do that.”
Mrs. Domitrovich said she plans to move into a house she has renovated in Miami, Fla., and continue the Lola’s brand by starting a small wedding and events business. She said she has also been writing a book about her over 40 years in the restaurant business titled Why You Shouldn’t Open a Restaurant.
Lola’s has changed hands twice in the past decade to other Island restaurant owners, but the Domitroviches returned as owners each time after the concepts failed. Mrs. Domitrovich said she believes this time the restaurant will be in good hands with Mr. Abdelnour. She called Nancy’s one of the most respected businesses on the Vineyard, owing largely to Mr. Abdelnour’s work ethic.
“He’s a nice, joyful, caring person and that gets you a lot in this community. I think it will be a very welcoming location for my clientele,” she said.
Mrs. Domitrovich will commemorate the end of her long run at Lola’s with a farewell party on Friday starting at 8 p.m. at the restaurant. She said all are welcome and there will be no cover charge.
And after 25 years greeting customers with a smile and throwing dozens of events each summer, Mrs. Domitrovich had a few words of advice for the future owners.
“You have to give them something other than a meal,” she said. “When you have that much space, you have to give them a destination to come into. You need that hook. Mine was value, music, joy. Everyone who came to Lola’s had a good time. It’s full of joy in there. I think anyone who wants to succeed in that location has to do that.”
Comments
"Laissez le bon temps rouler"
skip OB"Laissez le bon temps rouler" -- and for sure they 'rouled' for 25 years; hoping for more and much love & luck Lola!
"lola" keep loving life n
Chick Chickanis"lola" keep loving life n living large...not many finer then you!! To the King!!! Love ya Chick out...
I hope they continue the Buck
Molly Baker EdgartownI hope they continue the Buck-A-Shuck on the lawn, so much fun!
One of our most favorite
Kathleen Peltier Estero FlOne of our most favorite spots on the Vineyard. Many fond memories of great times there. We went there first when we were on our honeymoon which seems to be about a year after it opened. Always stopped at Lola’s always fabulous music, dancing and great dining. Lots of fun. Good luck Kathy in your next chapter. I will definitely read your book when it’s published. Good luck to the new owners in continuing an Island favorite spot.
It's going to be in good
Eleonora EdgartownIt's going to be in good hands, best wishes to new owners.
With limited walkup business
George Stein EdgartownWith limited walkup business it is hard to create a lunch crowd there. Creating new revenue streams is ever new owners goal. The scramble for reliable kitchen help is as common as conversation about housing issues . Never thought it would out last so many other quality establishments. Quality clientele will continue going there from knowledge of the history it holds. Thanks to a dedicated friend and best of luck on the next roll of the dice.
Kathy thank you for decades
Patricia Hayling Price Westchester NYKathy thank you for decades of joy. You and Paul are forever a part of our lives and at the heart of great memories. Thank you so much for your hard work, love and deliciousness! You will be more than missed! Happy that you will still be an islander during the summer for years to come. Hugs
Kathy is the hostess with the
Amy Goldson OBKathy is the hostess with the mostest. Lola's was as much about Kathy as the destination. Kathy, I hope that you will still spend summers on the Island. On forward. All best and love.
Good luck with your new
Naomi Providence, R.IGood luck with your new adventure. Will miss you
My family and I love Lola’s
M. Mickey Williams Washington DCMy family and I love Lola’s and always made sure we visited Lola’s when we vacation on th island. I hope the new owners take care of the this island jewel. Thank you to Kathy and her husband for all of the hospitality and great times at Lola’s
Vacations on the Vineyard
Timolin Boca RatonVacations on the Vineyard were not complete without evenings hangin at Lola’s. An island landmark ...truly an era gone by! Wishing Kathy all the best on the next chapter in her life!
Skip has it right. Will miss
Marcia snd Bill Cini Vineyard HavenSkip has it right. Will miss you Kathy as we do Paul but you certainly deserve a break. Good luck! Marcia and Bill Cini
Always great food, Good luck
John Alley West TisburyAlways great food, Good luck Kathy on your new venture and thanks for the good times!
Kathy,
Randi Baird West TusburyKathy,
I always felt the love when I walked into your restaurant. Either to enjoy a meal, dance or to photograph a milestone event. You created something special for us all. Thank you for that.
Of course your next adventure sounds inviting too. See you in Miami!
First we lost the Atlantic
LCE Rockville, MDFirst we lost the Atlantic Connection and now Lola's! I can remember transitioning from a young party goer first going to the AC and then as a more mature socializer meeting up at Lola's for night of reuniting and dancing. Wow! It truly is the end of an era. Where will the party people go now?
Kathy, you will be missed. We
Judee B. Vineyard HavenKathy, you will be missed. We will always remember Lola's with fond memories, good food and fun family events. Enjoy your next stage in life.
Thank You Lola, from the
Judy Doss Detroit, Michigan. Oak BluffsThank You Lola, from the beginning with Larry and I, thru 7 years of Clam Bake Fundraisers for his Foundation
It’s been a wonderful ride for all of us.
Wishing you Happiness, Love and contentment in your new chapter.
Kathy, There are o many
Kym Longino MarylandKathy, There are o many Memories of times spent with You and with Paul at Lola's. From Fashion Shows to Brunch to Dinner to Entertainment and much more. Our Grand Hostess always. CONGRATULATIONS I know your next Jorney will be even bigger. Mauuuuh....
Kathy and Paul were not only
michael johnson oak bluffs/san franciscoKathy and Paul were not only excellent restauranteurs and hosts, but have always been there for the community of O.B. and Martha's Vineyard. They treated all who entered their portals with kindness and respect. Back in the 90s Kathy and Paul hosted "Lola's Gospel Brunch" at which my group "Miracle Cure" were the headliners. You could never find kinder and more generous folks to work for! thanks for 25 years of food, music and community service! Continued success.
As a member of the Miracle
Peter Halperin Northampton/West TisburyAs a member of the Miracle Cure during that time I want to second Michael's comments. That Gospel Brunch had the most wonderful vibe. The music was a major factor, but the ambience of Lola's, as created by Kathy and Paul, was equally important. All the best to you going forward Kathy!
Please don’t change the onion
Barney EdgartownPlease don’t change the onion rings! One order to eat in with dry martinis two orders to take home!
Thank you for the memories
Tammy Chickanis MarylandThank you for the memories Kathy!
Kathy Thank you for all the
Pam Brantley Paterson, NJKathy Thank you for all the Great memories and being a part of the MV Community. Good Luck on your next Chapter ♥️
‘To everything there is a
Kathleen McGhee-Anderson Oak Bluffs‘To everything there is a time and a season’
Kathy, you gave us a time and place that will live in our hearts forever! How lucky to have had you, Paul and Lola’s in our lives. Thank you! Keep on keeping on!
Kathy,
Doreen Washington, DCKathy,
Kathy,
Your food and hospitality cannot be matched whether in or out of the restaurant. You were brave to tackle the business without Paul, which, after so many years, had to be extremely difficult. The Miami business will be easier and a new beginning. Paul would want that for you and will be cheering you on. Thank you,Kathy, Paul, and Michael (amazing chocolate scones) and Celine, for so many wonderful times, in Key West, New Orleans, and Martha's Vineyard - amazing memories. Wishing you every happiness in this new phase of your life. Love to all, Doreen
Kathy,
Richard Walker WalthamKathy,
Thank you for all the great memories!
Kathy, my sisters and I.
Millie Henderson Rockville Centre. N Y.Kathy, my sisters and I. Loved you and Paul We wish you the best. Love you. Millie
"Twenty-five years ago, my
Deborah Williams Los Angeles"Twenty-five years ago, my two little girls and I walked into Lola's and were greeted by Kathy and Paul. We were treated to their lovely story about how Lola's came to be. We were their first customers! Wonderful memories. Godspeed Kathy!
THANK YOU for all the years
LAURA JEMISON WASQUETHANK YOU for all the years of wonderful memories. Glad I could be a part of the
world Kathy's created there. One of the best moments, our family reunion with my 95 year old aunt dancing with my daughter and the family and the entire crowd joining in with us. A truly special place where the "family of man" could enjoy some great music and harmony together.
Great memories of spending
Mary FloridaGreat memories of spending many nights dancing at Lola’s! Thanks for your always welcoming presence! Best wishes to your next chapter in Florida!
Thank you for the opportunity
Loree Pina- Full Unit BostonThank you for the opportunity to share in the electric vibes you and Paul always displayed each opportunity we performed at your establishment. Lola's was always "THE SPOT TO BE". Blessings!! Loree Pina- Lead singer of Full Unit
Lola's has been, and will be
Billy Gramm Scituate, MaLola's has been and will be remembered as one of the iconic destinations on Martha's Vineyard. From the time it opened, to our recent trip in late July, Lola's has been a relished spot to create memories for our extended group of merrymen. Thank you Kathy and Paul
Best to you Kathy. I know
ed & claudia swan EdgartownBest to you Kathy. I know Paul with his crown is looking down and smiling on you! Be happy and well. Ed & Claudia
Kathy, I have so many
Elaine Cawley Weintraub west tisburyKathy, I have so many wonderful memories over the years of your kindness and support for my students and for the African American Heritage Trail. All those years of fried chicken lunches with greens. You create a loving space wherever you go and you will be sorely missed. Good luck to you in your new venture. Travel well my dear. You, Paul and Michael will be forever in my heart.
I love Lola's! Don't get
April Atlanta, GA & OBI love Lola's! Don't get there as much as I'd like. But we had our rehearsal dinner there 21 years ago and it's still the talked about. Ms. Kathy You will be missed!
Kathy,
Dr. Lorna Andrade, RN, Ph.d [retired] Professor Med. /Surg./ Gerontology Nursing education/ Administration EdgartownKathy,
you deserve a break, You have Loved,been Loved and will always remember the road from where it started the beginning and to NOW the new road!
We loved Paul he was a wonderful caring MAN
Keep his Podium I gave you in memory of his dedicated work; use it in the new venture.
Lorna
Lots of
Best Wishes kathy!
Miriam Curtin YORKTOWN HTSBest Wishes kathy!
To the new owners, Don't change a thing, especially the menu or the chefs. Stick with what has worked all these years.
There's a saying "Been there
Cheryl Grimes West TisburyThere's a saying "Been there,Done that, Got the Soundtrack. Kathy,Thanks for all the good times you and Paul showed all of us in Lolas and beyond. You'll always have a place in my heart. Bitter Sweet Times. God Bless. See you in Florida.
Kathy, Paul, you and I and
Ronald L. Whitaker Boston MassachusettsKathy, Paul, you and I and many others have eaten, danced and partied hard for the past 25 years at Lola's. I will miss the old Lola's and I will certainly miss seeing you each year. I wish you the very best in Miami and I will certainly check you out on my annual trip there. Blessings and best wishes to you and most importantly; Thanks!
I think I was Lola’s very
Philip Hart Los AngelesI think I was Lola’s very first customer when it opened 25 years ago. My wife Tanya, our family and friends have been customers ever since. I still recall in 2000 when our daughter Ayanna got married at the Federated Church that our friend Marshall King and his wife Brenda Andrews joined us at Lola’s for Marshall’s birthday dinner. Paul regaled Marshall and the rest of us all night. Great job Kathy and continued good fortune in Miami. Like Tanya, Kathy is a Michigan girl and it shows in her grace and business sense.
I think I was Lola’s very
Philip Hart Los AngelesI think I was Lola’s very first customer when it opened 25 years ago. My wife Tanya, our family and friends have been customers ever since. I still recall in 2000 when our daughter Ayanna got married at the Federated Church that our friend Marshall King and his wife Brenda Andrews joined us at Lola’s for Marshall’s birthday dinner. Paul regaled Marshall and the rest of us all night. Great job Kathy and continued good fortune in Miami. Like Tanya, Kathy is a Michigan girl and it shows in her grace and business sense.
Wow,
Charlotte Ayeni Hilton Head Ilsand, SCWow,
Just returned from my 15 days in the Vineyard, and a trip is not complete without a visit to Lola's. This year was sad ... Kathy's husband transgressed and she is moving onto the next phase of her life. My girlfriend and I could not leave the Vineyard without saying goodbye to a staple that was our evening hangout for years. I will truly miss Kathy and Paul's warm hospitality ... there was sadness in the air as we said our goodbye's to this wonderful establishment and so many cherished memories shared there.
As Kathy moves into the next phase ... those special memories she and Paul created on Beach Road near the Inkwell will live on in the memories of the patrons forever. No matter who owns the Beach Road location in the future ... it will always be Lola's in my mind and bring special memories of what used to be once upon a time.
Rest in peace Paul ... and to Lola, God be with you in your new journey!
Charlotte
All too often I was too tired
Shelley Christiansen Oak BluffsAll too often I was too tired (and old?) at the end of a work day to join the fun and fellowship at Lola's. Yet I was always nourished in the assurance that the door was open and the music was pumping when I was ready. Now it is no longer. But we'll all be grown up about this and adjust. Thank you, Kathy, for the summer staple that you and Paul created. Wishing you all the best for your next phase. P.S. Don't throw out the shingle. Just sayin'
The end of a wonderful era
Sherri and Ed Gray Gray’s Oak (Right down from Lola’s!) and Chevy Chase, MDThe end of a wonderful era indeed. Lola’s - a landmark on the island for sure, right up there with the Lighthouses, Campgrounds, Gazebo, Flying Horses, etc. A trip to Martha’s Vineyard was not complete until you stopped by Lola’s. Much success Kathy as you begin your new Chapter. Thanks for warming all of our hearts and souls with your wonderful hospitality and that beautiful smile!
Wishing you all the best, and
Jan NickersonWishing you all the best, and thank you for the good times, great food and music. So many memories shared with friends and family over the years. Sure hope the new owners keep some Lola atmosphere and menu.
So muhany great memories. All
Dave Picozzi Warwick RiSo muhany great memories. All of our kids couldn't wait to turn 21 so they could go to Lola's. Best wishes for your future and thanks for all the memories.
Oh Man, will the Vineyard
9to5 TravelsOh Man, will the Vineyard experience be the same...I am sad to see "LOLA's". I hope the vibe remains the same (good food, music and vibes) as previous years. Thank you for the good run. Look forward to the next chapter.
Our summer gigs at Lola's
Larry Barron from Planet Groove Charleston SC.Our summer gigs at Lola's were the best. Tremendous hosts and always great crowds. Best of luck to you!
Kathy and Paul were the
Margaret Bush Ware Los Angeles, CAKathy and Paul were the quintessential hosts of the island! I met them when I first visited Oak Bluffs more than 20 years ago. Had come with friends to spend the day on the Inkwell when I was a teenager, living in New York...was invited as an adult 45 years later and our first stop was Lola's! What a great time we had each and every night line dancing, singing along with the musicians in the bands that were performing, and most of all the late night snacks that we'd order to take home to eat when we had hunger pains at three in the morning. I've seen photo's of the renovations that have been made and look forward to coming to Noman's next month. Will miss getting a hug from Kathy. Will miss the socialization that happened on a nightly basis (getting to see who was on vacation at the same time). God bless Kathy and her son in their new ventures. Noman's will be my first stop when I get there!
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