Joseph Kustra was born in 1942 in Croatia. He moved to France in 1963, and lived in Paris for five years. In 1968 Joseph set off to America! - the land of opportunity. He arrived in New York City - with dreams of conquering the country like John Wayne and marrying a beauty like Doris Day.

He immediately began working in the restaurant industry. And soon after, he married Susie Grates of Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan. They have five lovely children. :)

In Detroit, Michigan; Joseph worked at Joe Byer's Wine Cellars for nine years.

He then moved back to New York and worked as Captain at the Helmsley Palace in Manhattan.

For 15 years, Joseph worked at Peter Lugar Steakhouse in Brooklyn.

In 1995, Joseph set off on his own, creating Tollgate Steakhouse in Mamaroneck, New York. He sold his interests after five successful years.

Joseph then saw a wonderful opportunity in Bridgeport, Connecticut. He opened Joseph's Steakhouse in November 2000. He has been serving USDA prime dry aged beef with a smile ever since.