Leno's jabs at Squat 'n' Gobble doesn't ruffle restaurant owner's feathers

A Bluffton institution was the butt of one of Jay Leno's jokes Monday when the TV talk-show host calling the Squat 'N' Gobble the "worst name for a restaurant ever."

An advertisement featuring the restaurant, complete with its mascot -- a blond, short-skirted, cartoon waitress -- was sent to the NBC show by a recent customer. Paul Riganas, owner of the family-run restaurant, is certain it was a tourist.

"He makes it so funny," said Riganas, laughing. "I see a lot of tourists come in and take pictures."

This is the second time the restaurant, near the May River in the heart of the old town, has been picked on by the comedian.

Riganas has owned the establishment for more than 10 years. Two years ago, he opened a second, larger Squat 'N' Gobble off Exit 5 in Hardeeville.

The Bluffton restaurant also is a popular gathering spot for locals, serving a mixture of Southern, standard American and Greek fare.

"They feel comfortable here," he said. "My staff -- they know my customers and my customers know them."