The owners of E.J. Wills Gastropub recently announced the sale of their bar and restaurant, a beloved spot in McKinney, Texas. According to a social media post, owners Greg and Joy Booth are turning over the keys in order to spend more time with their family and daughters, the namesakes of the restaurant.
“We have watched as couples got engaged, babies grew, kids graduated high school and worked for us during their college breaks, and guests celebrated birthdays and other major milestones,” the couple said in the post. “But now, as our girls are growing, we are choosing to lean into family time.”
The Facebook post thanked customers for their time at the restaurant and for allowing the owners to create a welcoming space to provide chef-driven cuisine. "Our hearts have swelled as you allowed us into your lives and embraced us in return," the Booths said.
E.J. WIlls served a range of traditional bar food options such as soft pretzels, wings, tacos and nachos, but also boasted many gluten-free options.
The new restaurant planned for the location is set to serve Cajun fair. The new owners have not announced any details regarding the new restaurant, but Greg and Joy Booth asked their own loyal customers to support the ownership transition. Several managers and other staff members will stay on at the new restaurant.
“The time has come for your favorite ‘Mom and Pop’ to be more simply Mom and Pop,” the Booths said. “Thank you for your patronage and support for almost 8 years — nearly 6 in McKinney — and we look forward to clinking a glass with you on the other side of the bar.”
E.J. Wills will remain open during the transitional period between owners, which took place over the past week.