New Owners Taking Over Peppercorn’s In Worcester

WORCESTER, MA — A longtime Worcester restaurant is preparing for a change after nearly three decades under the same ownership.

Peppercorn's Grille and Tavern is being sold to a former employee. Its current owner, Tom Oliveri, announced on Friday that he plans to retire after more than 40 years in the restaurant business, including 29 years at the Park Avenue eatery.

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Former employee Joe Kaplan and his family will buy the restaurant at 455 Park Ave., with longtime General Manager Cathleen and Head Chef Marcos Ferreira joining the new ownership group.

Oliveri said customers should expect the restaurant's staff, menu, food and atmosphere to remain unchanged.

"I couldn't be happier knowing Peppercorn's is in such great hands," Oliveri said in a social media announcement on Friday.

The Worcester License Commission approved the change during a Thursday meeting.

Kaplan went before the commission to request the transfer of liquor, common victualler and entertainment licenses to him and his brother, Ben.

"Peppercorn's been around for a long time," Kaplan said when addressing the licensing commission. "Our thought with it is go take over and really just keep it exactly as it is. It's a fantastic place, the poeple love it, so why change a single thing about it."

The brothers also operate Lakeside Bar & Grille, an eatery located in Shrewsbury's Quinsigamond Plaza for over 15 years, as well as Herbie's in Worcester and Center Tree Bar & Grill in Rutland, the Telegram & Gazette reported.

"To all our loyal customers, thank you for 29 incredible years of friendship, support and memories," Oliveri said. "You've made this journey truly special, and I will always be grateful."

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