After more than four decades ferrying diners to uncharted culinary locales, St. Augustine’s Gypsy Cab Company is finally pulling into the station.
According to a Facebook post, a former chef is coming full circle by returning to the iconic Anastasia Boulevard spot—this time as owner of Purple Olive, which will take over the space.
Celebrated for its eclectic “urban cuisine” and vibrant atmosphere, Gypsy Cab has been a beloved local staple since 1983.
Now, after roughly 42 years, owner Frank O’Rourke announced that he will retire its brand in early June, passing the torch to Peter Kenney, who served as Gypsy Cab’s Chef de Cuisine from 1999 to 2004 before founding Purple Olive.
As the restaurant prepares to close on June 5th, staff expressed gratitude to the community, staff, and patrons who helped entrench them as an Old City institution.
“We’ve had an incredible run,” they wrote in the post. “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.”
For Kenney, this move is more than a relocation—it’s a return to the roots of his chosen craft.
“Gypsy Cab helped shape who I am as a chef,” he said. “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.”
Purple Olive has built a reputation over 21 years for scratch-made, chef-driven cuisine and personalized catering.
The new location will allow Kenney to expand his offerings, including increased seating and a full liquor bar, while upholding the restaurant’s commitment to quality and community.
Both restaurants see the transition as a poignant passing of the whisk.
Gypsy Cab will close with grace after more than four decades, while Purple Olive prepares to infuse fresh energy and vision into the familiar space.
Purple Olive plans to open in late summer or early fall, continuing operations at its current location until then.
The Gypsy Cab team invites all to visit before their final day on June 5th to celebrate the end of an era. “Come see us before June 5th,” they say, “and get ready to fall in love with what’s next.”
