Josie’s Mediterranean café is the creation of a pair of successful restaurateurs Christy and John Wheat. The local couple own Simp McGhee’s restaurant in downtown Decatur, AL located on historic Bank Street. “Simp’s” (as the locals call it) from its inception has been the premier casual fine dining restaurant in Decatur, AL. Simp’s was Originally founded by Jenny Lind and Robert (Bobby) Riddle in 1986. Christy Wheat purchased the restaurant in 2005 after rising through the ranks at Simp’s from server to Manager and finally the owner. John and Christy met and later married to form the partnership that inspired this chapter in their culinary life. 

John on the other hand, was never associated with the restaurant business…until the couple met 9 years ago. John’s career was spent in the audio/video industry in various capacities. But it was his audio production work that carried him to Torino Italy where he worked for the host broadcaster of the 2006 Winter Olympic Games (TOBO). The time he spent in and around Italy is where he found a love for Mediterranean foods and wines.

“When we decided to open a new restaurant one of our concerns was, what to name it?” One afternoon John received a phone call from Christy. She was doing errands around town when the song, “Josie” by the famous rock group Steely Dan came on her car radio. She told John to google the meaning of the name Josie.

The definition of the name Josie: The name Josie is a French baby name. In French the meaning of the name Josie is: May Jehovah add. Addition (to the family). Also, can be a diminutive of Joanne: God is gracious. French form of Joanna (from the Latin, Johanna) and the feminine form of John. Because we were adding a new restaurant (member) to our family and the obvious connection with John’s name sake, Josie’s was named!

At Josie’s we chose Mediterranean style food because that is where the Tapas concept originated. Tapas “Small Plates” is based on the idea of people sharing good times and food with friends in a lively atmosphere or bar. We believe that sharing makes for a unique and fun experience. All the items on our menu are made fresh daily. We purchase many products from our local farmers for quality and freshness. Also, to support our farmers market and the local economy. Josie’s dough is handmade in house to ensure consistent quality. We are proud of the homemade taste that stands out with every bite. Our attention to detail is what makes our

dishes a culinary experience to enjoy. The next time you are thinking about a good time out on the town for fun and good food…come see us at Josie’s. It will be our pleasure to serve you.