Serving Excellence

Celebrating Twenty Years of Hospitality in Cool Springs

Connecting the dots between Old English heritage and the Old South, Sperry’s has been welcoming guests with a warm, comforting ambiance since 1974. This iconic family tradition was brought to Cool Springs in 2006 and is now celebrating twenty years here in Williamson County. At the heart of this legacy are owner Al Thomas and his late wife, Patricia Porter Thomas, who poured their heart and soul into building Sperry’s into what it is today. Their commitment to quality, hospitality and creating a place where guests feel genuinely cared for has shaped the experience for generations and continues to guide the brand forward.  

Al Thomas explains,  “It is a great achievement and tremendous milestone for Sperry’s Restaurant to reach twenty years in Cool Springs. Having just celebrated our fifty-year anniversary at the original Belle Meade location, we are thankful for all the wonderful patrons that support this location. We are also thankful for our day-one server, Carlo, who has provided an excellent level of service to our valued guests for the past twenty years. We look forward to serving our Cool Springs patrons for many years to come.”  

As many Williamson County residents can likely attest, Sperry's is the perfect go-to location for special occasions and celebrations. Family and friends have gathered there amid the warmth of the fireplace and rich decor for twenty years. The food is consistently exceptional, and it is a great place to just have a drink at the bar and see friends. 

Sperry's is definitely an “experience” dining establishment - beginning the minute you walk in the door. At the heart of that experience are the people who have helped shape Sperry’s legacy. Carlo Rodriguez, a beloved server who has been with Sperry’s Cool Springs since day one, is a perfect example. His dedication, warmth and genuine connection with guests have made him a familiar and trusted face for countless dinners over the years. Stories like Carlo’s are what make Sperry’s more than a restaurant. They make it a community.

We had the opportunity to meet and talk with Carlo and get his firsthand perspective on the last twenty years at Sperry's Cool Springs.

You’ve been here since day one. What do you remember most about opening Sperry’s Cool Springs twenty years ago?

The excitement from the community about opening a Sperry’s in Cool Springs, and learning the history of the original Belle Meade location.

What has kept you at Sperry’s for two decades?

The stability and security, knowing Sperry’s is here to stay.

In your opinion, what makes Sperry’s truly stand the test of time?

The commitment to quality, freshness and great service to the community.

You’ve likely served thousands of guests. What makes a great dining experience in your eyes?

Fresh food, quality service and making people feel welcome.

Have you had any regulars who have become like family?

I’ve been blessed to meet several people who became friends and family. They opened their hearts and welcomed me into their lives.

What’s your personal favorite dish after all these years?

That’s hard to say. Our Prime Rib is a must, the crab cakes are exceptional and the grilled lamb chops are a favorite addition.

What’s the most surprising or memorable request you’ve ever gotten from a guest?

Helping hide an engagement ring for a proposal, and sometimes even helping decide what to say.

What does being part of this team for twenty years mean to you, and how would you describe Sperry’s culture?

It makes me proud to be part of this family, because we truly are a family. Everyone works professionally and honestly, and that creates a culture where you feel safe and supported.

What’s the biggest lesson the hospitality industry has taught you?

Always be humble and appreciate the people you are serving, and those serving alongside you.

What motivates you to keep delivering exceptional service year after year?

The satisfaction of helping people enjoy quality time together, especially on special occasions.

What does a perfect night at Sperry’s look like from your perspective?

A fresh spirit at the bar, a long dinner in the dining room and finishing with a Café Sperry’s coffee and sticky toffee pudding.

When you think about the future, what excites you most about what’s ahead for Sperry’s?

The opportunity for newcomers to experience true Southern hospitality, along with the history and traditions of Sperry’s.

How many Bananas Foster do you think you’ve made in twenty years?

Roughly 14,400... and counting!

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As Sperry’s Cool Springs marks this milestone, it stands as a reflection of everything that has defined the brand since 1974: consistency, quality and genuine hospitality. It is a celebration of the past, a gratitude for the present and a continued commitment to being a place where memories are made for generations to come.

Congratulations and happy twentieth anniversary! We look forward to many treasured memories at Sperry’s over the next twenty years.