Chelsey Andrews & Roginald Smiley Jr
Chelsey and Smiley built The Neon Lunchbox from the ground up, fueled by nostalgia and a drive to create something fresh. After leaving draining business partnerships—Chelsey from her loaded potato shop and Smiley from a marketing firm—they combined their talents to bring St. Pete a spot that feels like home. Inspired by the neon-lit magic of the 80s and 90s, they’ve crafted a space where food, community, and throwback vibes collide. More than just a restaurant, The Neon Lunchbox is a movement—proof that stepping away from the past can spark something legendary. Welcome to the future of nostalgia.
The Full Story
Who Owns The Neon Lunchbox?
Chelsey and Smiley didn’t just stumble into owning The Neon Lunchbox—they built it from the ground up with a vision as vibrant as its name. Both had been chasing big dreams, only to find themselves in partnerships that dimmed their spark. Chelsey had been the heart and soul behind The Half Baked Potato, a quirky spot on Central Avenue that brought loaded spuds to the St. Pete foodie scene. But when her business partnership unraveled, she found herself at a crossroads, searching for something more fulfilling and entirely her own.
Smiley, on the other hand, was no stranger to creativity. As a co-owner of a thriving marketing and photography company, he’d poured his passion into elevating brands across the city. Yet, the partnership left him drained, stifled, and yearning for a project where he could truly let his talents shine.
Fate—or maybe just the universe working its magic—brought these two kindred spirits together. Over late-night brainstorming sessions fueled by nostalgia and big dreams, Chelsey and Smiley realized they had more in common than they thought. Both grew up in the golden eras of the 80s and 90s, their childhoods filled with neon lights, mixtapes, Saturday morning cartoons, and school lunchboxes packed with sugary snacks. Those memories weren’t just fond—they felt like home.
With a shared vision of creating a space that captured the magic of those formative years, The Neon Lunchbox was born. It wasn’t just about food or drinks—it was about building a community that celebrated the best of the past while creating a vibrant future.
They brought it all together: Chelsey’s flair for creating comforting, delicious eats and Smiley’s eye for design and atmosphere. Together, they transformed The Neon Lunchbox into a retro-inspired haven where every detail—from the menu to the décor to the events—sparked joy and nostalgia.
But this wasn’t just a business venture; it was a statement. Chelsey and Smiley turned their past struggles into fuel, proving that leaving behind toxic partnerships was the first step to leveling up. With their combined talents and a love for their city, they’re building more than a restaurant—they’re creating a movement.
Today, The Neon Lunchbox isn’t just a place to eat; it’s where St. Pete comes together to laugh, play, and make memories. Chelsey and Smiley have turned their childhood dreams into a glowing reality, proving that when you step out of the shadows, you can shine brighter than ever.
✨ Welcome to The Neon Lunchbox—where the past feels like home, and the future is electric. ✨
