John Patterson, a partner in Shutts & Bowen LLP’s Sarasota office, successfully represented the owners of the historic Bijou Café in a sale of real estate and business assets to the Realm Restaurant Group, the first change of ownership for the restaurant since 1986.

The Bijou Café, which is one of the longest running fine dining establishments in Downtown Sarasota, was sold to the owner and operator of another popular eatery, Sage. John was the lead attorney representing the owners of Bijou Café, Jean-Pierre "J.P." Knaggs and his wife Shay, in the sale of the real property and business assets to the existing business group. The last phase of the transfer of ownership for the historic landmark was completed on May 20, 2021. A longtime Sarasota resident, Patterson has represented J.P. and Shay Knaggs in multiple Bijou-related matters over the years, from the purchase of the restaurant’s assets, throughout its operation and in expansions, to its recent sale. 

“The Bijou Café is like a part of our family. We celebrated every significant event there with family and friends for 35 years,“ Patterson remarked. “We are pleased that the new owner intends to continue the great tradition of the Bijou Café.”

 

About John Patterson

John Patterson is a partner in the Sarasota office of Shutts & Bowen LLP, where he is a member of the Corporate Practice Group. John is a Martindale-Hubbell AV® Preeminent™ rated attorney, former litigator and appellate lawyer. He regularly represents clients in commercial real estate, business, and financing matters in a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, hotels and resorts, retail, marinas, personal storage, mobile home parks, construction, and real estate development. With over 51 years of legal experience, John has held numerous leadership positions in the community and across the state, having served in the past as a director and president of The Florida Bar Foundation, a board member of The Florida Bar and as a member of the Second District Court of Appeal Nominating Commission. He currently serves on the board of directors for The Innocence Project of Florida and Shands Teaching Hospital and Clinics, Inc. in Gainesville.  He has been recognized for his pro bono efforts, and is a recipient of the Florida Bar President’s Pro Bono Award.