Joe Bologna is hanging up his apron

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ) — It’s been a Kentucky staple for almost half a century, and the man behind it all, Joe Bologna, will be hanging up his apron at the end of the year.

The owner announced his retirement, saying he’s looking for someone to take over. Right now, he has five people vying for the spot.

“It’s important that whoever it is, is a working owner and wants to get involved and be able to teach them all the different areas that we have,” Bologna said.

Some people have been going to the restaurant since it opened, and Bologna says he considers his customers to be family, many are sad to hear the news.

“This food’s fantastic so I hope if someone does buy the place or take over, I hope they keep everything exactly the same,” customer Rob Stith said.

Bologna says he plans on training whoever takes his place to ensure the Joe Bologna’s traditions stay the same for those dedicated customers.