While Boston may be known as the home of Cheers, the bar where, as the song says, “everybody knows your name,” Newton has long been home to a place that is also inspired by a “must-see TV show” that is also friendly and familiar and always satisfying.

Originally opened over 30 years ago in an attempt to recreate the diner atmosphere from Seinfeld, Johnny’s Luncheonette took over the space that was once held by Langley’s Deli, which itself had been a long-time staple in Newton Centre.

Over the years, Johnny’s became a popular stop not only for locals, but for such celebrities as writer David Mamet, and for politicians, including many members of the Kennedy family, who came by for campaign stops and also just for the occasional Jordan Marsh blueberry muffin.

In 2014, Johnny’s was taken over by Kay and Kevin Masterson, who previously owned the popular eatery Nourish in Lexington.

Under the Mastersons’ management, Johnny’s has continued to serve and sustain the community through its dedication to sourcing food and staff locally and making sure that everyone who walks through the door gets everything they need and more!

When asked how and why she got into the food space, Kay Masterson cites food service as “a major focus and passion of mine for as long as I can remember” and recalls working at a family member’s restaurant in Alberta, Canada, when she was just 14.

“I learned how passionate people can be about food,” she reminisces, explaining that she became a cook and a regular visitor to farmer’s markets shortly after.

Working her way through the restaurant industry, Masterson eventually found herself at the Edmonton Convention Center and serving as catering manager at the Four Seasons Hotel in Alberta.

“My husband…was also in the restaurant industry,” she explains, “and we have both been immersed in it ever since.”

When Johnny’s became available in 2014, the Mastersons were getting ready to step away from their own place in Lexington and were looking for a next adventure.

“Johnny’s was a great opportunity to continue our restaurant journey,” Masterson maintains, “and keep such an important community institution going!”

After joining the local chamber of commerce, Masterson met Joe Prestejohn, who was the owner of Cabot’s.

“We have similar community-based approaches to business,” Masterson observes, “so when he wanted to retire, we felt strongly that it was important that Cabot’s continue as the iconic, beloved place it is and began negotiating to buy it.” As Masterson realized what the shop meant to Joe and what he meant to it, she made sure to keep him on board as what she called an “Ice Cream Ambassador.”

“Three years later,” she assures, “we continue to have a terrific relationship, and Joe is able to do all the wonderful community activities he loves!”

Kay Masterson, owner of Cabot’s Ice Cream and Johnny’s Luncheonette, shown here with State Sen. Cindy Creem, was named Small Businessperson of the Year at the Charles River Chamber’s Newton Small Business Awards on Sept. 12, 2025. Photo by Bryan McGonigle

As she clearly appreciated what local people bring to local places, Masterson has long been dedicated to supporting as many farmers and producers as she can find.

“We believe in community partnerships and that everyone benefits when we work together,” she says, noting how cross-promotion and other partnerships help both Johnny’s and Cabot’s and their many supportive partners flourish.

By way of example, Masterson cites her long relationship with Tangerini’s Farm in Millis, with whom she has worked for over 20 years.

“We have evolved the menu to reflect beloved favorites,” she notes, “as well as new ones through a rotating roster of specials.”

In addition to doing all that she can to make sure her customers and neighbors are sustained as satisfyingly as possible, Masterson is an ardent community and environment supporter as well.

“I was raised by my mother, who was an award-winning community volunteer in more areas than I can count,” she explains. “She modeled what it meant to take action around the things you care about.”