Ajax Under New Ownership as Yates Looks Forward to Next Chapter

27 Years of Southern Comfort Food

For nearly three decades, Randy Yates has been feeding local folks and visitors from around the globe at Ajax, a beloved Southern comfort food restaurant on the downtown Square. Named after Yates’s grandfather A.J, Ajax managed to imbibe the relaxed and cozy atmosphere that captures the essence of the South. It was not unusual for patrons to run into familiar faces making Ajax more than just a dining spot – a community meeting ground.

A New Hand Over The Reins

In a surprising turn of events, after 27 long years, Yates has decided to pass over the reins to a new owner, Clay Scruggs, last week. Mississippi born, Scruggs is an experienced hotel developer with the Cap Development Group. As the new era dawns for the legendary Ajax Diner, customers will be pleased to know that their favorite Southern dishes will continue to grace the menu.

The transition was met with positive reactions when shortly after announcing the changing of hands, Ajax was named one of “The South’s Most Legendary Restaurants,” by a renowned lifestyle magazine.

The Emotional Goodbye And Future Plans

Yates expressed his pride in the recognition and admitted to struggling to find the correct words to thank his loyal customers and dedicated staff on social media. The decision of leaving his home away from home was not easy, but Yates is looking forward to exploring new possibilities, focusing on his personal growth and, above all, enjoying a well-earned break.

With a heart full of gratitude to the community for their overwhelming support over the years, Yates looks forward to exploring opportunities and ideas that lie ahead. After running Ajax for all these years, Yates is planning to take a few months off to recharge before embarking on his next journey – a chapter that is yet to be written and defined.

After sharing that he has been working every Saturday for the last four decades, Yates humorously added, “I’m looking forward to seeing what happens on Saturdays.” A sentiment that speaks volumes about his dedication towards Ajax and its loyal patrons. And as he steps down, Randy Yates assures the Ajax community that their beloved gathering spot will continue to serve the delightful southern comfort food they’ve cherished for years.

End of an Era, Start of a New Chapter

As Yates moves on to a new phase in life, Ajax Diner also has a fresh journey to embark on under the leadership of Scruggs. The next chapter promises to uphold the tradition that made Ajax a success while refreshing it with a vibe of its own. As the Ajax Diner’s next chapter begins under new ownership, locals, visitors, and comfort food lovers can look forward to fresh culinary experiences from a place they love.