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DINIING OUT
Chris McDonnell, left, has passed the torch at Chris McD's to new owner Tyler Spurgeon, right.
Taking Over a Columbia Staple NEW OWNER TALKS PLANS FOR CHRIS MCD'S.
BY PEG GILL · PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON
C
hanges are underway at
sit at the same table.” When he ran the
couldn't have taken over at a better
Columbia mainstay Chris
idea of owning Chris McD’s past the
time. We have the best trained staff;
McD’s — not the least of
Maurizis, they were on board. “They
a really good crew that's committed.
which is new ownership.
knew it was a great investment, even if
(Spurgeon) is liked and respected by the
After 30 plus years, founder Chris
the restaurant industry is kind of hard
employees and they're excited about the
McDonnell felt ready to pass the torch,
right now,” Spurgeon says. “Chris McD’s
changes coming."
which occurred this past December
has a great following and knowing
when he sold to Tyler Spurgeon.
that Chris would be showing me the
busy, and Spurgeon has a very good
Spurgeon’s partners in the venture
He adds that Chris McD's is always
ropes, it was kind of an easy decision.”
chance of being successful. Even
are Tina and Dr. Mike Maurizi, his
Spurgeon’s fiancée, Claire, was also on
though McDonnell won't be in the
soon-to-be parents-in-law. Spurgeon
board. “She's super pumped about it.
kitchen at Chris McD's for too much
says, “This is Mike's favorite restaurant.
Super supportive,” he says.
longer, he has no plans to quit cooking.
He and Tina come in every week, sometimes twice a week. They usually
Of selling after 31 years, McDonnell says, "I had a great run. … (Spurgeon)
However, he says, "I don't think I'll ever own another restaurant." INSIDE COLUMBIA MARCH/APRIL 2022 43
