Pete’s Grille, the well-loved landmark in Waverly, is up for sale, the business’s owner said in a statement posted on social media Tuesday.
The restaurant, known for its hearty pancakes and egg platters and also for being the breakfast of Olympic champions — Baltimore native Michael Phelps was a fixture at Pete’s during his competitive swimming years — plans to stay open as it looks for a buyer.
“We are grateful to have made so many friends along our journey of ownership and we appreciate so much all the love and support you all have shown to us over the years.It’s time we pass the torch to someone with a love for community and a passion for the restaurant industry,” the statement posted on Facebook said.
Pete’s opened on Greenmount Avenue in North Baltimore in 1980 and quickly became a favorite for the community, including students at nearby Johns Hopkins Homewood campus. An annual pancake-eating contest drew amateur enthusiasts for over 25 years, with the winner sometimes downing more than a dozen delicious hot cakes.
Despite some initial concern that the restaurant was closing, the pancake syrup continues to flow at Pete’s counter.
The restaurant owner stressed in a follow-up post Thursday that Pete’s remains open and will continue to be open regular business hours.
“We are looking for new owners to take over as is and keep it in the Waverly neighborhood as long as possible. … Pete’s grille has changed hands a few times over the years and this time is no different.”
