08/02/2026
From Big Al (written in 2002):
“When I opened the Gables in 1955 (which is now Tomatoes), bars were permitted to stay open 20 hours a day - 8 A.M. to 4 A.M. In 1966, I acquired Maynards, which I still own 36 years later. I recall Friday nights. As all of the group rental people were coming from Philly and other surrounding car loads, the guys started to trickle into the bars by about 9 P.M. At 11 P.M. sharp ladies started to parade in dressed casual, but very neat and clean. Every hair was in place, makeup on, and, of course, all looking beautiful. Aroma of their favorite perfume mixed with our smoke-filled rooms, bands ablazing, the smell of brew and liquor. Let the fun begin.”
When Big Al acquired Maynards from Billy Maynard in 1966, he intended to make it a part of the Gables. Instead, Big Al fell in love with Maynards and decided to sell the Gables in 1969. Since 1966, Maynards has grown - to include the Starlight Garden in 1993 and Diva’s Pavillion - and is the only remaining establishment from Margate’s original Barbary Coast.
Over the past sixty years, Maynards has passed from Big Al’s generation (who acquired the bar when he was 40 years old) to his son Steve, and now Steve’s daughter Stephanie.
For the past 60 years, Maynards has hosted babies, dogs, and guests of every age. Friends and family have gathered together for fun, charity, sporting events, holidays, and special occasions. We’ve helped each other celebrate and mourn. We’ve stood together through history and crisis. Together we’ve survived Superstorm Sandy, countless weather events, a global pandemic, and anything else thrown our way.
Come celebrate the legacy of Al Troiano’s Maynards and the Maynards of today - The Show Must Go On!
Maynards and the Troiano family are so looking forward to you joining us today and hearing all the stories and memories you have that fill our walls. Without you, Maynards is just a building. With you, we are community.