News Summary
Casey Gonzmart Sr. has stepped down as chairman of the 1905 Family of Restaurants, passing leadership to the next generation. The Columbia Restaurant, Florida’s oldest operating restaurant, continues its legacy as it enters its fifth generation of Gonzmart family management. The restaurant remains a staple in Tampa, known for its rich cultural heritage and regional cuisine. Gonzmart Sr. leaves behind a strong legacy marked by community involvement and resilience during challenging times, while the new leaders are committed to maintaining the restaurant’s core values.
Tampa’s Historic Restaurant Transitioning Leadership
Casey Gonzmart Sr. has officially stepped down as chairman of the board for the 1905 Family of Restaurants, marking a significant transition as the family legacy of Florida’s oldest operating restaurant continues into its fifth generation. The flagship venue, the Columbia Restaurant, first opened its doors in 1903 as Columbia Saloon and was renamed in 1905. It has been a staple of Tampa’s culinary scene for over 120 years.
As a fourth-generation member of the Gonzmart family, Gonzmart Sr. is a descendant of Casimiro Hernandez Sr., who immigrated to Tampa and infused the restaurant with his Spanish-Cuban heritage. This rich history plays an essential role in the restaurant’s identity, blending cultural traditions with regional cuisine.
With Gonzmart Sr.’s retirement, the leadership of the restaurant group will transition to Casey Gonzmart Jr., the eldest son; Richard Gonzmart, his brother and the current president/CEO; and Andrea Gonzmart Williams, his niece and director of operations. This familial continuity is key to maintaining the core values and vision established by Gonzmart Sr. throughout his extensive 60-year career in hospitality.
A Strong Legacy in Challenging Times
Under Gonzmart Sr.’s guidance, the 1905 Family of Restaurants faced numerous challenges, including economic downturns, wars, and the effects of the recent pandemic. He played a crucial role in steering the organization through these turbulent times while preserving its longstanding legacy. Gonzmart Sr. expressed a sense of fulfillment as he witnessed the family’s operational expertise being passed down to the next generation.
Even though the restaurant industry has changed dramatically, Gonzmart Jr. emphasized the importance of earning one’s role within the business through hands-on experience from a young age. This heritage of learning and growing within the family structure solidifies the future of the restaurant group.
Community Engagement and Recognition
Throughout his career, Gonzmart Sr. has been actively involved in the Tampa community, serving in leadership positions across multiple organizations. His commitment to the community earned him accolades such as “Outstanding Citizen of Sarasota” and “Business Person of the Year.” These honors reflect not only his dedication to his family business but also his investment in the welfare of the Tampa area.
The announcement of Gonzmart Sr.’s retirement generated significant interest, attracting over 75,000 impressions on social media. Customers can expect beloved menu items like the iconic “1905” Salad and Cuban sandwich to remain available, even as the menu continues to evolve with seasonal favorites such as stone crab dishes.
Looking to the Future
After retirement, Gonzmart Sr. plans to remain in Tampa alongside his wife, Heidi. They look forward to spending quality time with their children and four grandchildren, cherishing family moments as they transition from the bustling restaurant world to a more laid-back lifestyle.
The Gonzmart family’s commitment to quality dining experiences and their rich heritage will undoubtedly carry on, as the fifth generation prepares to uphold the traditions that have made the Columbia Restaurant and the 1905 Family of Restaurants an enduring symbol of Tampa’s culinary landscape.
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Additional Resources
- Your Observer: Family Legacy Columbia Restaurant Next Generation
- Business Observer: Tommy Bahama Restaurant St. Armands Reopening
- Sarasota Magazine: New Tommy Bahama St. Armands Circle
- Wikipedia: Culinary History of Cuba
- Herald Tribune: Sarasota Restaurant Reopens Reimagined Cafe St. Armands
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Restaurant
Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER
The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
