Neven Bajlo oversees the white linen atmosphere at neighborhood favorite John Henry’s (photo by Joan Westlake).

White linen tablecloths, fresh flowers and a tuxedoed piano player set the tone for the premium wines and Continental cuisine that brought in customers from around the south Tempe community. Today, Neven Bajlo and John Lake are the remaining partners, with Bajlo running the day-to-day operations and Lake stopping by frequently to enjoy what they have created.

    Bajlo says the restaurant was named after John Henry, the oldest and most successful thoroughbred in horse racing history. The name was selected because that part of town was populated by horse properties and also because John Henry’s reflected the hopes that a good investment would have a long run.

    “We are still going strong after a 16 years,” points out Bajlo.

    The restaurant now caters to the next generation of folks who want a special night out as well as to the regulars in the neighborhood who stop by to relax at the piano bar and socialize. Bajlo says he has noticed an increase in the women who stop by with friends or even alone.

    “Our atmosphere sets a tone that makes them feel comfortable and safe,” he explains. “We can become very busy but I always make certain everyone feels welcome and receives my attention.”

    Happy hour is from 3 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday with special appetizer and drink prices. There’s a large screen television but this isn’t a rowdy sports bar. You are more likely to find the British Open or, of course, Kentucky Derby airing.

    The happy hour menu ranges from $5 to $12 and includes an array of lighter fare such as an antipasto, Cajun chicken Caesar salad, bruschetta, penne Bolognese, oysters Rockefeller and a cheeseburger.

    A recent renovation added contemporary colors and expanded the outdoor patio. Bajlo says when the health prohibitions went into effect, they also put in a heater and sparkling fountain to make the patio more welcoming for their smoking patrons.

    Over the past few years, a variety of musical talent has appeared in the lounge but customers say they prefer the piano music and interacting with the player at the baby grand. You’ll again find the keyboards tinkling Tuesday through Sunday beginning at 7 p.m.

    The dinner menu, served nightly from 5 p.m., offers a selection of classics such as chicken Piccata ($15), filet mignon ($25), veal Saltimbocca ($17) and linguine with clam sauce ($16). Bajlo adds that the tableside preparations, such as the Chateaubriand for two ($50) or Dover sole ($30), bring flair to any occasion. Signature dishes include the lobster bisque, veal fantasia and duck.

    Birthdays, anniversaries and other celebrations are accommodated in an elevated area or two separate dining areas in the restaurant. Bajlo says they frequently host breakfast, luncheon and dinner gatherings for businesses and clubs. And, they are happy to create special menus.

    “We have diners who call and request dishes not normally on our menu,” he says. “One regular called and said he was having friends from out east coming to visit and he wanted venison and some Arizona dishes.”

    Catering to customers seems to be one of the key elements of John Henry’s winning run. Reservations are accepted at 480-730-9009. Info: www.johnhenrysrestaurant.com.