Gallaghers, a famous steakhouse in New York City’s theater district, has found itself in an embarrassing situation. The restaurant was forced to add a disclaimer to a framed portrait of Perry Como after customers kept mistaking him for Jeffrey Epstein. The framed photo of Como now includes a message clearly stating, “This not Jeffrey Epstein. This is Perry Como.”
Owner Dean Poll explained that the disclaimer was added due to the constant confusion by customers. He recounted how “hundreds” of customers would question why the restaurant was honoring Epstein, prompting the need for clarity. Gallaghers, which first opened in 1926, was known for being the first restaurant to serve a New York Strip, according to its website.
Despite its long history and reputation as a celebrity hotspot, Gallaghers still attracts many tourists who are captivated by its glass freezer showcasing prime cuts of beef. Poll, who bought the restaurant in 2013, revealed that he had to step in to save it from bankruptcy. He also made it clear that Epstein had never been a patron of the establishment, contrary to what some customers believed.
Throughout the years, Gallaghers has been visited by numerous well-known figures such as Joe DiMaggio, Elizabeth Taylor, and Perry Como. Como, a beloved singer and television personality in the midcentury, taped his show near Gallaghers at CBS studios on 54th Street. Despite his fame and positive reputation, Como was being overshadowed by the association with Epstein, much to the disappointment of his fans.
One such fan, Zac Bissonnette, a finance professional and author, expressed his frustration at the mix-up. Bissonnette, who even shares a cat named “Perry Como” with his partner, described Como as one of the greatest singers of his time and known for his kindness. He found it upsetting that Como would be forgotten in favor of Epstein, a disgraced figure with a tarnished legacy.
The confusion surrounding the identity of the framed portrait at Gallaghers highlights the challenges faced by businesses in maintaining their reputation and avoiding negative associations. Despite the long history and prestige associated with the restaurant, even an iconic figure like Perry Como can be overshadowed by a case of mistaken identity. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of clarity and communication in preserving the legacy and image of establishments with a rich cultural heritage.
