New Restaurant Opens as Beloved Local Farm Owner Faces Assault Charges

A Fresh Start on Broadway — and a Legal Storm at Deep Pond

The South Shore's local food and farm scene is making headlines for two very different reasons this summer. In Raynham, a new upscale eatery has taken over a well-known address, giving diners something fresh to look forward to. Meanwhile, in East Taunton, the owner of one of the area's most beloved family destinations is navigating serious criminal charges after a chaotic night on his own property.

The restaurant space formerly known as Seafood & Cones is now home to a new food establishment — Gennaro's Surf & Turf, which opened at 77 Broadway in Raynham. Seafood & Cones, which was known for summer favorites like fried seafood, burgers, lobster rolls, chowder, and an extensive ice cream menu, announced its closure in January 2026 after being open since 2022. Its departure left a noticeable gap in the local dining scene — one that Gennaro's is now stepping up to fill.

Gennaro's Brings Upscale Casual Dining to Raynham

Dave Laghetto, former co-owner of Seafood & Cones, is the one taking on this new endeavor, according to the restaurant's social media. The concept marks a meaningful evolution from what the space previously offered. As the name suggests, Gennaro's Surf & Turf's menu focuses on seafood — such as various fried dishes and lobster rolls — and meat entrées like steak. The entire inside has been remodeled to accommodate upscale casual dining with a lounge area and an updated concept and menu.

Ice cream will not be part of the menu, according to a post from the Facebook page's admin. That's a clear signal that Gennaro's is aiming for a different crowd and a different experience than its predecessor — more date-night destination than summer snack stop. The restaurant is now open Monday through Wednesday from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with extended hours on weekends. For a stretch of Route 138 that has seen its share of turnover, the new concept represents a genuine bet on the neighborhood.

Deep Pond Farm Owner Arrested After Event Turns Chaotic

While Raynham celebrates a culinary newcomer, East Taunton's Deep Pond Farm and Stables — a wildly popular family attraction — finds itself at the center of a troubling legal story. Owner George Ghazal was arrested for allegedly assaulting a police officer at a recent event at the farm, according to court documents obtained by the Taunton Daily Gazette. The alleged incident took place on July 29, during the evening of a "midget wrestling" event.

Police initially responded to the farm due to "a large disturbance" that evening, which required "every unit available in Taunton" as well as officers from Lakeville and the state police. When officers arrived, they began separating the parties involved. Ghazal then allegedly began yelling at an individual involved in the initial disturbance, "creating a new disturbance due to his behavior." A police officer attempted to de-escalate the situation by ushering Ghazal away from the person he was yelling at, when Ghazal allegedly struck the officer.

A Farm With Deep Community Roots Now Facing Uncertainty

Ghazal, reached by phone, told the Gazette he has "some criminal charges" and couldn't speak about the matter, adding, "I never touched Officer Corrao," referring to Taunton Police Officer Paul Corrao. The denial is notable given how prominently Ghazal has featured in the life of the farm and the broader community. The farm, which Ghazal originally built for his family, includes more than 70 acres of land and over 100 animals, and offers event hosting, horse lessons, and a bar and grill that serves thousands of guests every year.

This isn't the first time Deep Pond has faced turbulence. The farm has previously clashed with city departments over zoning and accessibility requirements, navigating petitions and public hearings to stay open. Through it all, it has maintained a fierce and loyal following. The legal case stemming from the July 29 incident will likely play out over the coming months in Taunton District Court. How it resolves — and whether the farm's reputation weathers the storm — will be closely watched by the thousands of families who have made Deep Pond a regular part of their summers.