Tony Durpetti, Gene & Georgetti Steakhouse Owner, Dies at 80

A Life of Love and Legacy

Tony Durpetti, the owner of the historic Gene & Georgetti steakhouse in Chicago, passed away last Thursday due to complications from pulmonary fibrosis and Parkinson’s disease. He was 80 years old.

A Boy’s First Memory

At the age of 7, Tony Durpetti earned tips as a self-appointed doorman at the Gene & Georgetti steakhouse. However, his stint was short-lived, as one of the owners, Gene Michelotti, chased him away while dressed in a white shirt, tie, and an apron. Little did Michelotti know that the boy he ran off was his future son-in-law.

A Fateful Marriage

Tony Durpetti married Michelotti’s daughter, Marion, and later took over the restaurant that had once rejected him as a child. At his wedding, Durpetti fondly recalled the incident, saying, “I hope I don’t offend anyone, but I still have my father-in-law’s foot imprint on my ass from when I was 7 years old.” A mural in the restaurant commemorates the adversarial beginning of their relationship.

A Life of Devotion

Durpetti honored Michelotti’s last wish to come into the family business before he died in 1989. He left a successful career in radio ad sales to buy the restaurant from his mother-in-law in 1992. Durpetti loved the people at the restaurant and the customers, as described by his daughter, Michelle Durpetti.

A Legacy of Love and Food

Gene & Georgetti is the oldest steakhouse in the city, opened in 1941. Durpetti grew the business, which attracted everyone from celebrities like Mariah Carey and Richard Kiel to politicians and CEOs. He loved to share anecdotes about the notable guests who frequented the restaurant.

Celebrity Encounters

Mariah Carey gingerly made her way up the stairs to the second-floor dining room in seven-inch heels, trailed by nervous bodyguards. Richard Kiel, the 7-foot-3 actor, playfully put Durpetti in a headlock. Johnny Depp, Paul Newman, Tom Hanks, John Malkovich, Will Ferrell, and Russell Crowe were among the many celebrities who enjoyed the restaurant’s unique charm.

A Final Resting Place

Visitation will be held on Thursday from 8 to 9 a.m. at Belmont Funeral Home, followed by a mass at 10 a.m. at Assumption Catholic Church.

Conclusion

Tony Durpetti left an indelible mark on the city of Chicago and the restaurant industry. His legacy will live on through the countless memories made at Gene & Georgetti and the love shared with his family and customers.

FAQs

Q: What was the name of the restaurant that Tony Durpetti took over?
A: Gene & Georgetti

Q: What was the reason for Tony Durpetti’s death?
A: Complications from pulmonary fibrosis and Parkinson’s disease

Q: Who was Tony Durpetti’s wife?
A: Marion Michelotti

Q: What was the name of Tony Durpetti’s boat?
A: “Andiamo”

Q: What was Tony Durpetti’s occupation before taking over the restaurant?
A: Radio ad sales