Bendix Diner For Sale After Shutdown: Here's What Could Replace It, How Former Owner Is Coping

The diner’s owner, John Diakakis, is understandably heartbroken.

"This is not the way I would've wanted things to end," he said.

Diakakis, who is blind, said he still visits the shuttered diner three or four times a week, walking through the empty space that once kept him busy seven days a week.

When the landmark eatery was forced to close in January, Diakakis was left at a loss. A GoFundMe launched shortly after brought in thousands of dollars to help support him through the transition.

But it appears that wasn't enough to save the Bendix Diner, as the property is officially for sale. 

The sale is being brokered for sale by Nick Rogers, of commercial real estate firm IPRG, who says the space has potential for much more than just another restaurant.

“The diner still needs work,” Rogers said. “But this is a rare chance for someone to take an iconic location and either revitalize it or redevelop it entirely.”

Rogers said he has reached out to major corporations like McDonald’s, Raising Cane’s, and Dunkin’, exploring opportunities for a full restaurant overhaul. The lot is also zoned for a drive-thru, which opens the door for a Starbucks or similar franchise, he noted.

But that’s not all. According to Rogers, the current zoning also allows for the construction of a cell phone tower or a billboard, both of which have already drawn interest from major players.

“We’ve talked to companies like T-Mobile, AT&T, Crown Castle, and Vertical Bridge,” Rogers said. “A telecom company would bring in the most cash.”

The site’s zoning permits a billboard as a conditional use, making it attractive to media and advertising companies as well. “Someone could go in and put up a digital billboard, which is very lucrative,” he added.

While there is no asking price publicly listed, Rogers said the property is being marketed as open to all offers, which will then be presented to the family.

Calls and inquiries about the property are now being accepted.

As for Diakakis?

"At this point, I'm in limbo. It's been a struggle because when you're working 7 days a week and you earn a good living... the alternative really sucks."

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