A Life in Hospitality: Harry Zepatos Honoring the life of the 60 year industry titan
“I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t love it.” -Harry Zepatos
A Legacy Rooted in Family
For Harry Zepatos, the restaurant was never just a business; it was home.
Born into the family behind the Arcade Restaurant, Harry quite literally grew up within its walls. From childhood days spent running through the halls to working weekends and summers as a teenager, he learned every corner of the business—from kitchen to table, basement to roof.
After college, Harry built experience outside the family business, working at an architectural and engineering firm and later owning several Baskin-Robbins locations. But in 2002, he and his wife Karan returned to take over the Arcade, stepping into both an opportunity and a responsibility.
Their first day open was overwhelming, filled with customers and a steep learning curve. But what followed were years defined by growth, connection, and an unwavering love for the people who walked through their doors.
More Than a Restaurant
Harry understood something fundamental: the Arcade wasn’t just about food: it was about people.
Whether it was serving classic breakfast plates, burgers and fries, or hand-scooped milkshakes, Harry believed the real heart of the restaurant was the community it created. He and Karan built lasting relationships with customers, employees, and neighbors, instilling those same values in the next generation.
Today, the fourth generation of the Zepatos family continues that tradition on South Main.
Milestones That Matter
60 years in the restaurant industry
100-year anniversary of the Arcade Restaurant (2019)
Downtown Vision Award recipient (2019)
Lifelong advocate for Memphis and its hospitality community
A Champion for Downtown Memphis
When Harry stepped into leadership in the early 2000s, South Main was far from what it is today.
He became deeply involved in revitalizing the district, working alongside local businesses, residents, and government to restore its charm and bring it back to life. From redeveloping nearby properties to helping launch community initiatives, Harry was hands-on in every sense, whether planning improvements or simply sweeping the sidewalks each morning.
His impact helped spark what would become a thriving cultural and dining destination.
“The American dream is being able to pass it down.”- Harry Zepatos
A Life Well Lived
Harry believed deeply in legacy, not just building something, but passing it forward.
Today, the fourth generation of the Zepatos family continues that work, carrying forward the values he lived every day: hard work, humility, and care for others.
From the Zepatos Family
The family is deeply grateful for this recognition.
Harry would have said it was the customers who made the Arcade Restaurant what it is.
But those who knew him know the truth— it was Harry.
Stay tuned for our next winner profile!!
Celebrating the people who power Memphis hospitality.
Over the remainder of 2026, the MRA will honor our award winners in various ways! Keep on the look out for more to come!
