A Journey Through the Restaurant Business
Frank Guido’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and a deep connection to his community. From humble beginnings, he has built a legacy that spans over five decades in the restaurant business, creating a network of establishments that serve both quality food and unforgettable experiences.
Guido’s journey began after high school when he attended Marist College, earning a degree in accounting. He initially worked for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), but after just three months, he made a bold decision to pursue his own path. At the age of 21, he opened his first bar, BG’s, located near the SUNY Ulster campus in Stone Ridge. This move marked the beginning of a long career in the hospitality industry.
“I was the first one in my family to go to college,” Guido shared. “My mom and dad, who never went beyond fifth grade, were so proud of me. I went to work for the IRS. I was even sent to Green Haven prison to interview ‘Crazy Joe’ Gallo. I was making $4,600 a year. Then an opportunity came up, and I opened my first bar.”
Despite the initial concerns from his parents, Guido remained committed to his vision. His dedication paid off, leading to the creation of multiple successful restaurants across the Hudson Valley, with a focus on seafood and Italian cuisine.
A Legacy of Quality and Community
Today, Guido runs Frank Guido’s Port of Call in Catskill, while his cousin, Sal Guido, manages Mariner’s Harbor in Kingston. Over the years, he has owned and operated more than 20 restaurants, each reflecting his commitment to quality and service.
One of his most well-known establishments, Frank Guido’s Little Italy, serves traditional Neapolitan dishes inspired by family recipes passed down through generations. The restaurant also features a unique collection of photos showcasing celebrities and athletes that Guido has befriended over the years, including Phil Rizzuto, Yogi Berra, George Steinbrenner, Robert De Niro, and Joe Pesci.
“I was very fortunate to become friends with these individuals,” Guido said. “But I’m more proud of my friendships with the local people who’ve supported our restaurants.”
Customer Experience and Community Involvement
Guido believes that the key to his success lies in his approach to customer service. He emphasizes the importance of treating every guest like a regular person, ensuring they receive the best possible experience.
“We deal in quality,” he explained. “We buy what we feel is the best. We’re very active in the community. I can’t tell you how many donations we make weekly. We honor our veterans. On Veterans Day, we feed 500 veterans totally on us.”
The exceptional service provided by his staff has also played a significant role in the success of his restaurants. Marie Schultz, the general manager at the Kingston location, has been with him for over 40 years, along with many other long-time employees.
“We give the best service around,” Guido said. “If a customer wants a specific waitress, we’ll do our best to accommodate them. If a busboy sees someone with a package, he’ll run out to help. If someone wants a different item with their entree, we’ll be happy to do it.”
Recognition and Continued Success
The Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce recently honored the Guido Restaurant Group with its inaugural Customer Experience Lifetime Achievement Award. This recognition highlights the company’s long-standing commitment to providing exceptional service, alongside other notable businesses like the Mohonk Mountain House.
“Imagine being on the same level as the Mohonk Mountain House,” Guido said with a smile.
Beyond his professional achievements, Guido’s personal life reflects the same values of loyalty and friendship. He and his wife, Gail, celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary this year. Their relationship has been enriched by their close friendship with Phil Rizzuto and his wife, Cora, with whom they often celebrated anniversaries and holidays together.
A Life Full of Memories
Guido’s restaurants continue to attract a wide range of visitors, from locals to famous faces. Carlos Santana, Johnny Depp, and the cast of The Sopranos have all graced the tables at his establishments.
“I don’t know how I got so lucky,” Guido said. “One never knows what celebrity might stop by the Kingston restaurant on any given day.”
Through his dedication to quality, service, and community, Frank Guido has created a lasting legacy that continues to thrive. His journey is a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and the importance of building meaningful connections.
