Today is June 23, 2026, and there’s a buzz in the air here at Lake Worth Beach. Benny’s on the Beach, a beloved local eatery, has just landed a significant victory—a 10-year lease extension that keeps it anchored at its iconic spot on the city pier until 2043. This isn’t just good news for the restaurant; it has implications for the entire community.
Approved unanimously by city commissioners on June 16, the new lease brings some changes to the financial landscape. Rather than the previously scheduled annual rent increases of 3.5%, Benny’s will now see increases of just 5% every other year starting in 2033, effectively lowering the annual increase to 2.5%. For 2026, the restaurant is paying over $32,000 a month, which will rise to just under $40,000 by the end of the current lease. It’s a hefty sum, but Benny’s owner, Lee Lipton, believes that securing this long-term extension is in the best interest of both the restaurant and the city. The move allows for future investments and job security, which is always a plus in these economic times.
Community Reactions
Not everyone is on board with the decision, though. While some residents and officials are cheering for Benny’s, others, including former City Commissioner Kim Stokes, have raised eyebrows. Stokes is concerned about the apparent favoritism shown to Benny’s and questioned the lack of specific plans for capital investments that would benefit the community. She pointed out that The Beach Club Lake Worth, which is also vying for lease renewal, hasn’t received the same favorable terms. This situation raises some eyebrows regarding fairness, especially as plans to invite bids for The Beach Club’s space have been postponed due to the owner’s absence.
On the other hand, Commissioner Anthony Segrich stood up for Benny’s, touting it as the highest-paying tenant in the city. He highlighted the restaurant’s significant annual expenses on insurance and repairs, emphasizing that it contributes substantially to the local economy. It’s a mixed bag of opinions, really—some see Benny’s as a pillar of the community, while others feel the deal should have been more equitable.
Background on Benny’s
Benny’s has been a staple in Lake Worth Beach since 1986. It’s not just a restaurant; it’s a gathering place, a spot to grab a bite while enjoying the ocean breeze. Lee Lipton, the owner, has even reached notable heights outside the restaurant world, having been nominated by President Donald Trump as U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines, a position confirmed by the Senate just last month. Talk about a busy guy!
Now, let’s zoom out for a moment. Florida, as a whole, is seen as a haven for businesses. The state has been attracting foreign investments like never before, hitting a record high of $153 billion between April 2016 and March 2017. With no state income tax and the option for anonymous shareholders, it’s no wonder many entrepreneurs are flocking here. Florida is not just about sunshine and beaches; it’s about opportunity. The financial health of the state further solidifies its attractiveness for new businesses looking to set up shop.
In this context, Benny’s lease extension is more than just a local story; it’s part of a broader narrative about economic resilience and community investment in Florida. As we watch how this all unfolds, it’s clear that Benny’s will continue to play a vital role in the local landscape for years to come.
For more details on this story, check out the original article from the Palm Beach Post here.
And for a deeper dive into why Florida is such an appealing place for entrepreneurs, you can read more here.