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+387648592568
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Eighth Avenue 487, New York
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A Survivor’s Story

busy restaurant full of people dinning

In 1985, Josephine “Jackie” Shields and her husband Bob opened Ham-N-Eggs in Lewisville, Texas. Jackie’s passion for feeding others was born from hardship—having survived over three years in a Japanese internment camp during World War II. When Japanese forces invaded Manila, Jackie’s family was torn apart. Her father, a high-ranking military officer, was taken as a prisoner of war, while Jackie, her mother, and her sister were separated and sent to an internment camp for women and children. There, they endured starvation and suffering until they were rescued by the Marines and Allied forces. Her father, a survivor of the Bataan Death March, later passed away due to complications from his captivity. From those experiences, Jackie vowed never to let anyone go hungry again.

More Than Just a Restaurant

With her outspoken, one-of-a-kind personality, Jackie made Ham-N-Eggs more than just a restaurant—it became a community gathering place. Guests didn’t just come for the Texas-sized pancakes and hearty breakfasts; they came for Jackie, whose bold spirit and sharp wit made every visit unforgettable. Over the years, her restaurant became a hotspot for Dallas Cowboys and Stars legends like Troy Aikman, Mike Modano, Daryl Johnston, Chad Hennings, and Mark Stepnoski, all drawn in by the great food and warm hospitality. We’ve been fortunate to serve many incredible guests over the years, and we’re grateful for each and every one who walks through our doors.

Carrying On the Legacy of Love

After her passing in 2007, her son Jody Rice and his family carried on her legacy, with longtime employee Ms. Margaret ensuring day-to-day operations ran smoothly. In 2019, the Rice family felt Ms. Margaret was best suited to continue Jackie’s mission, and she took over ownership alongside her son, Tom Gauna.

At Jackie’s Ham-N-Eggs, we believe in the difference between involvement and commitment—like the old story of the pig and the chicken: the chicken is involved in breakfast, but the pig is committed. Jackie was the pig, fully dedicated to feeding her community with love, generosity, and a no-nonsense attitude. Today, we remain just as committed to serving up great food and heartfelt hospitality. As Jackie always said, “Happiness is something we like to share.”

chickens fried steak with eggs and potatoes
- Tom Gauna, Co-Owner & General Manager

We look forward to welcoming you!