After three decades of serving sandwiches and smiles in Ponte Vedra, longtime small business owners Dakshesh “DJ” Patel and his wife, Daxa Patel, are retiring.
The couple, originally from Vadodara, Gujarat, India, first came to the area in the early 1990s. Before entering the restaurant industry, they ran a convenience store, but when the opportunity arose to join the Larry’s Giant Subs franchise in November 1994, they seized it — and built a business that would become a community fixture for more than 25 years.
Over that time, the Patels became a familiar part of Ponte Vedra life. Their restaurant provided food, jobs and memories for thousands of customers. Their son, Manan, born and raised in Jacksonville, grew up helping in the shop and says the experience taught him lifelong lessons about business, work ethic and resilience.
The decision to retire was made after their lease was not renewed. Although disappointed, the Patels have come to accept it as a turning point, a sign that it’s time to close this chapter and embrace retirement.
“Running this business has taught us the value of commitment and perseverance,” said DJ Patel. “Now it’s time to slow down, travel and spend time with family and friends.”
The restaurant will officially close its doors on Sunday, Aug. 24. Until then, customers are encouraged to stop by, enjoy one last sub and share their good wishes with the Patel family as they begin their next chapter.
