Froggy’s owner has island focus
Boris and Romana Gavrinev purchased Froggy’s in St. James City in 1999. By 2004, they bought out their partners and became the sole owners.
Purchasing Froggy’s however, was only part of achieving the “American Dream” for the couple.
Both born in the communist Czech Republic (formerly Czechoslovakia), Gavrinev said she and her husband would never have the opportunity to run their own business or own anything. They made their move to America in 1986, and have been living on Pine Island since 1989. She began as a waitress at the Oyster House (now Miceli’s) and in that time she said she got to know many of the islanders.
“When you’re in this industry, you get to know a lot of people, and people get to know you,” she said.
Along the way the Beacon was started and Gavrinev learned what the organization was doing for the island. Having a soft spot in her heart for the underprivileged and the elderly, Gavrinev said she thought about adopting someone to help with a meal each day, but instead decided to help many people through the Beacon Bites Program. Each week, Gavrinev makes sure the recipients receive a home-cooked meal, and once a month she gives the meals free of charge.
“I was going to adopt someone and feed them anyway, so I have no problem doing it once a month at my expense. It’s going to be my contribution,” Gavrinev said.
Gavrinev said she was always taught to give back, because you never know when you’re going to be in a situation where you need help.
Some of the Froggy’s customers found out what they were doing and began donating money to help offset the cost for the Gavrinevs.
Part of her love for both the restaurant and the island, she said, is inborn, as she is a people person, who enjoys being around and interacting with others.
“Doing what I’m doing is natural for me. I’m very comfortable and I like being here — it’s all I know because I’ve been doing this my whole life, and being able to do something for others makes me happy,” Gavrinev said.
In addition to making food for the Beacon Bites Program, Gavrinev said she tries to bring home food as often as possible for one of her neighbors who is alone.
Froggy’s has now begun opening on the weekends for breakfast, which leaves her without a day off.
Froggy’s is located at 3620 Stringfellow Road in St. James City.