Established in 1934, THE GALLEY is Santa Monica’s oldest restaurant and bar. Long before I became its Captain, I was a customer. I originally came to THE GALLEY because it was a comfortable, neighborhood place. But one thing really stood out: the Salad Dressing.

Being the owner of a fast-food restaurant, I wanted to find out the recipe. Millie, THE GALLEY’S long-time waitress (30 years!), held to the old adage, “Loose lips sink ships.” She wasn’t talking.

The recipe for the salad dressing became an obsession. One night, I shanghaied a bunch of friends and went to THE GALLEY. After dinner, I put down a generous tip and called Millie over to the table. “I have to know what’s in that dressing,” I nagged. She looked at me and said very loudly, “If you want to know so badly, why don’t you buy the @#!* place?!” Embarrassed and stunned, I stayed away from THE GALLEY for quite some time.

Years later, it came to my attention that THE GALLEY was in disrepair. I made an offer and within a few months became the proud owner. On my first day, I nervously walked in to meet the crew, and there was Millie. “Oh my God,” she exclaimed. “It’s the @#!* who wanted the salad dressing recipe!” I hope you like it as much as I do.

I hope you like it as much as I do.

Welcome aboard,

Ron Schur, Captain since January 1, 1989