Time: 2024-08-15
An iconic 70 - year - old diner in Connecticut , the Olympia Diner , has been listed for sale , sparking fears it could be set to close . The diner , located in Newington , has been serving truckers and locals since 1954 and has even been featured in movies such as 1989 's Jacknife starring Robert De Niro . The property is now available for sale or long - term ground lease , with a potential opportunity to add a drive - thru . Despite the sale listing , the diner remains open currently , and the owners have chosen not to comment on the potential closure if it sells.
The Olympia Diner was built by the New Jersey - based Jerry O'Mahony Diner Company , which was known for creating over 2,000 diners from 1917 to 1941 . The diners were primarily metal buildings constructed in a factory and then transported to various locations . Originally opened in Massachusetts , the Olympia Diner was later brought to Newington in 1954 . It is currently recognized as the oldest stainless steel diner in the country and has been owned by three families throughout its history , with the Gavrilis family being the current owners since 1974.
With increased competition from chains , diners like the Olympia have been on the decline across the US for decades . Rising food inflation and running costs have led to a slew of restaurant closures in recent months , impacting businesses nationwide . Despite the challenges , the Olympia Diner continues to attract customers , with one local sharing fond memories and expressing devastation at the thought of it closing . Another customer mentioned that the diner was still bustling and showed no signs of closing anytime soon.
Beyond the Olympia Diner , other restaurant chains are also grappling with financial difficulties . Denny 's , known as ' America 's diner , ' has closed multiple locations across the US due to falling sales and increasing costs for food and labor . The closures have been ongoing , with recent shutdowns in Langthorne , Pennsylvania , and Ashland , Ohio . The chain has faced 57 closures last year and 60 in the current year , highlighting the struggles faced by many eateries in the current economic climate.
In addition to Denny 's , other restaurants like World of Beer Bar & Kitchen and Buca di Beppo are also facing challenges . World of Beer , once among the fastest - growing restaurant chains in the US , filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy recently , citing significant debts owed to suppliers . Similarly , Buca di Beppo filed for bankruptcy shortly after closing 13 underperforming locations , reflecting the broader challenges within the restaurant industry . Despite these difficulties , some eateries like the Olympia Diner in Newington continue to serve their communities and preserve their unique charm and history.
Business
