05/23/2025
FOODIE NEWS! Gypsy Cab will pass baton to Purple Olive in St. Augustine, Florida!
From Gypsy Cab:
A New Chapter on Anastasia Boulevard: Gypsy Cab Company to Retire After 42 Years, Welcomes Purple Olive to the Iconic Location
ST. AUGUSTINE, FL – May 21, 2025 – In a heartfelt and historic transition, Gypsy Cab Company and Purple Olive are proud to announce a new chapter in St. Augustine’s culinary landscape. After 42 years of pioneering eclectic “urban cuisine,” Gypsy Cab Company will retire its brand and pass the torch to a familiar face: former Gypsy chef and current Purple Olive owner, Peter Kenney, who will relocate his restaurant into the iconic Gypsy Cab location on Anastasia Boulevard.
This marks a full-circle moment of celebration, gratitude, and forward momentum for both restaurants — and for the loyal communities that have supported them through decades of service.
Celebrating the Legacy of Gypsy Cab Company
Since 1983, Gypsy Cab has served as a beloved gathering place for locals and visitors, known for its bold flavors, funky vibe, and deep community roots. As the brand prepares to retire in early June, the Gypsy family invites all past and present customers, staff, and friends to visit over the coming weeks to enjoy their favorite dishes one more time, share memories, and raise a glass to 42 unforgettable years. Gypsy’s last day of service will be Thursday, June 5th.
“We’ve had an incredible run,” said the owners of Gypsy Cab. “We are deeply grateful to the community and to everyone who made Gypsy what it was—our staff, our patrons, and our friends. It feels right to end this chapter with dignity and excitement, knowing the space will continue to serve the community through Peter and the Purple Olive.”
Purple Olive: A Familiar Face with a Fresh Vision
Chef Peter Kenney brings the story full circle. From 1999 to 2004, he served as Chef de Cuisine at Gypsy Cab, sharpening his culinary approach before founding Purple Olive in St. Augustine Beach in 2004. Over the past 21 years, Kenney has built a rock-solid reputation for honest, scratch-made cuisine and exceptional catering.
“This isn’t just a move—it’s a homecoming,” said Kenney.
“Gypsy Cab helped shape who I am as a chef. The spirit of creativity and community that Gypsy fostered is exactly what we’ve continued at Purple Olive.
As we transition into this iconic space, we’re excited to grow while honoring the history that came before us.”
The new location will allow Purple Olive to expand its offerings, with increased seating capacity, a full liquor bar, and the same commitment to chef-driven cuisine that’s earned the restaurant a loyal following.
Looking Ahead, Together
Both Gypsy Cab and Purple Olive view this as a passing of the baton—done with care, mutual respect, and a shared love for food and community. The Gypsy Cab brand will sunset with grace, while Purple Olive brings fresh energy and vision to a space filled with memories.
Purple Olive plans to open in the new location late summer to early fall in the meantime, they will continue operations at their current location until the transition.
“Come see us before June 5th,” says the Gypsy team. “And get ready to fall in love with what’s next.”
About Gypsy Cab Company
Founded in 1983, Gypsy Cab Company introduced “urban cuisine” to St. Augustine with a fearless blend of international flavors and a distinct personality. Known for its creative menu, colorful atmosphere, and deep ties to the community, Gypsy Cab remained a local favorite for over four decades.
About Purple Olive
Purple Olive is a chef-owned and operated restaurant and catering company founded by Peter Kenney in 2004. Known for scratch-made dishes, warm hospitality, and customized catering services, Purple Olive serves both everyday diners and large-scale events with the same attention to quality and care.
