St. Petersburg’s beloved burger institution, El Cap, located on Fourth Street North, has undergone a partial ownership change, but loyal patrons can rest assured: the legendary “World Champ” burgers and the restaurant’s unique, wood-paneled ambiance are here to stay.
Seed & Feed Hospitality, the innovative group responsible for popular spots like Trophy Fish and Mandarin Hide, has acquired a 50% stake in El Cap, situated at 3500 Fourth St. N. Cindy Nally, a dedicated member of the El Cap family for approximately two decades, will retain the other half of ownership.
The decision to sell part of El Cap came after operating partner Tara Mattiacci announced her retirement. In a heartfelt Facebook post in December, Mattiacci shared her sentiments: “The time has come for me to pass the El Cap torch on to another St. Pete native who will carry on the tradition for many years to come. The new partners are born and raised in St. Pete and have all been coming to El Cap for 40 years+.”
Ryan Griffin of Seed & Feed Hospitality echoed this respect for El Cap’s heritage. “We see El Cap as an iconic institution,” Griffin stated. “I remember going there when I was a kid.” Griffin, along with his father, Bill Griffin, and stepbrother, Blake Thompson, are deeply committed to preserving the unique character of St. Petersburg. Learning about the potential risk of El Cap being acquired by a real estate development firm spurred Ryan Griffin into action. “It sparked into me to do my duty and step in and do what I could in my power to help preserve a community asset,” he explained.
Adding to the local investment, the new ownership group also includes notable figures such as Tampa Bay Rays and Tampa Bay Rowdies executives Matt Silverman and Brian Auld, consumer justice lawyer Augie Ribeiro, and W.G. Spoor, El Cap’s long-time accountant, according to St. Pete Rising. Ryan Griffin has expressed his ongoing interest in safeguarding more of Tampa Bay’s cherished establishments.
El Cap’s story began in the 1960s, and it has steadfastly remained a St. Pete favorite, even as other long-standing local eateries like Munch’s and Wilson’s have faced transitions. The restaurant was a labor of love for the late Frank and Mary Jean Bonfili for many years, cementing its place in the hearts of the community.
El Cap’s appeal extends beyond human customers; even the local wildlife appreciates its offerings. Wood storks from the nearby population are known to frequent the parking lot, especially around lunchtime, hoping for a stray morsel. Night manager Larry Chopard humorously recounted to the Tampa Bay Times last year, “They would get so bold that they would get on people’s tables and steal their hamburgers.”
While the change in ownership may bring subtle operational improvements behind the scenes, Cindy Nally assures that the core elements of El Cap will remain unchanged. The menu, featuring those famous juicy burgers, and the restaurant’s distinctive ambiance will continue to provide the classic El Cap experience that patrons have treasured for decades.
Long-time regulars have welcomed the news with enthusiasm. “It’s just a new adventure,” Nally remarked. “They know I’m here with their best interest — the community’s best interest.” This partial sale of El Cap St Pete appears to be a strategic move to ensure the longevity of a true St. Petersburg gem, blending fresh perspectives with a deep respect for its cherished traditions.
