Restaurant Promotion: Complimentary Oysters for 80-Year-Olds Eating with Their Fathers Results in 99-Year-Old Dad and 80-Year-Old Son Visit

A memorable event recently took place at Wintzell’s Oyster House in Mobile, Alabama, a cherished institution since 1938. The Rush family, devoted customers, selected this historic spot to celebrate Jimmy Rush’s 80th birthday together with his 99-year-old father, James. They set out to fulfill a playful promise illustrated on a hand-painted sign inside the restaurant: “Free oysters to any man 80 years old accompanied by his father.”

This delightful custom goes back to the time when J. Oliver Wintzell first opened the restaurant nearly 90 years ago. Having been regulars since its founding, Jimmy and James recalled seeing the sign about 30 years earlier, when Jimmy turned 50. Choosing to embrace the light-hearted challenge, they were warmly greeted by the staff at Wintzell’s Oyster House, who honored the long-standing offer. The gathering turned into a celebration of friends, memories, and of course, free oysters, capturing the essence of the restaurant’s rich heritage.

Clay Omainsky, whose family became stewards of Wintzell’s tradition in 2000, underscored the importance of honoring such promises in a world that is always changing. At the same time, preparations are being made for another touching celebration; Jimmy’s brother Carl aims to continue the tradition on his own 80th birthday, October 1, 2028, likely accompanied by their centenarian father.

Discover the inviting charm of this legendary establishment and its charming traditions through its [website](https://sprout.link/wintzells) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/wintzells/), representing a piece of Mobile’s vibrant history.