58 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM 1980s. Generations of Half Moon Bay residents used to frequent the place, including Betsy and her own family. “Every time I’m alone in this restaurant, I feel the spirit of Steve and Ilva, who were the owners my kids grew up knowing when we’d come in,” she recounts. “We used to order the kids hot chocolate and Mickey Mouse pancakes all the time.” When it came time to build and design the revamped diner, Betsy had no trouble finding help. “I didn’t have to go out and beg a designer, a contractor, an electrician or a plumber to come and work on this project,” she says. “The locals wanted to be a part of it. These people grew up here and came to Original Johnny’s.” The del Fierros’ two daughters, Maile and Camille, serve as head chef and general manager, respectively, for the new Johnny’s. “Maile learned a lot from the cooks at It’s Italia and has studied with a lot of chefs who have taken her under their wing, so Johnny’s is a project for her,” Betsy says proudly. “She hired all of our cooks, created the menu and researched so many recipes.” Upon entering, you’ll notice this greasy spoon feels like anything but. With the help of local {food coloring}
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