Garrett DeLuca is excited to embark on a new chapter in his career within the food and beverage industry. This Daphne native was initiated at the ripe old age of thirteen. He worked at restaurants throughout high school and college and graduated from the University of South Alabama with a degree in Marketing. He tried his hand at sales and “hated it”.
For those of you who know the industry, there is no easy escape, so you just make the best of it. And that is exactly what DeLuca is doing.
In 2015, Manci’s Antique Club in the heart of Olde Towne Daphne was reopened under new ownership. The historical Daphne landmark was rejuvenated by two very talented, restaurant/bar owners from both sides of the bay, Harry Johnson and John Thompson.
With Thompson’s business model (Callahan’s Irish Social Club) as the blueprint, Manci’s was reformatted as an entertainment venue with a great bar. Burgers and other eats were introduced following an extensive kitchen renovation.
Thompson has hosted some of the South’s most talented musicians at his Mobile establishment and for the past two years has included the Eastern Shore venue in his bookings.
The latest renovation began in May when a portion of the business began yet another transformation. Within the wall’s of Manci’s there was an overflow area that was revamped as Buster’s. It is an offshoot of the original bar and touts a more upscale, yet cozy feel. Behind the bar is a wood and gas fired brick pizza oven that cranks out gourmet pizzas that compliment an extensive list of wines and craft beers. There is also a full bar which features a separate cocktail list and includes high end scotch and bourbons. You can still enjoy the music that streams in from the original bar area but it is more of a background accent allowing you to simultaneously enjoy conversation.
Garrett capitalized on this opportunity to personally expand within the industry and now holds a vested interest. He is still managing, but now as a partner. With all the finishing touches now in place, DeLuca, Johnson and Thompson can now service clientele with options within the same facility.
Make plans to stop by and peruse the list of wines that are available by the glass or by the bottle, the craft beers and the specialty cocktail menu. All of which can be enjoyed with appetizers, a charcuterie board, salads, gourmet pizzas and even desserts. Whatever you are in the mood for, Manci’s has you covered!
Manci’s is open Monday through Thursday from 3:30 until and Friday through Sunday from 11am until. Buster’s hours are Wednesday through Sunday starting at 5pm.
Manci’s Antique Club and Buster’s
1715 Main Street, Daphne • (251) 375-0543 www.mancisantiqueclub.com
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