You may know Guy Fieri for his imitable style and insane ability to monster-size nachos. But long before he was the king of Flavortown, the Food Network star got his start at the NorCal restaurant Johnny Garlic's, which he co-founded in 1996. Now, nearly 20 years later, he's reportedly trying to end his partnership with the chain.
Though Fieri sent the restaurant well wishes via his publicist, he didn't disclose much other information and there's little intel on why he wants to part with the chain after so long. No, Johnny Garlic's isn't particularly beloved by critics or patrons. But neither are any of his other recent restaurant ventures, like the aforementioned Flavortown and Guy's American Kitchen and Bar.
Regardless of his reasons, Fieri submitted a petition to the California secretary of state to dissolve his partnership on December 14th, making it clear that he wants out. And his partner, Steve Gruber, is not happy about it: Gruber is suing the chef to halt the dissolution so he can buy up the remaining shares.
But the two can't seem to reach a deal on a price. As of now, they're seeking the guidance of a court to determine a fair market value for the chain, and Gruber is simply "exercising his right to purchase Guy's shares under appropriate California codes."
When the separation finally does occur, aside from some menu adjustments—dishes like "Guy's Approved Big Bites" and "Guy-Talian Spicy Sausage and Penne" will be renamed—little else within the restaurants will be changed.
Follow Delish on Instagram.