Diner Historian
Bringing classic mid-century restaurants back to life through authentic restoration.
Restoration of 1950-Style All American Restaurants
Jackson Hole Diner: A Legacy of Exceptional Burgers and Star-Studded Patrons
In a recent interview with Alexander Meskouris, the owner of Jackson Hole Diner, we delved into the history and legacy of this iconic restaurant chain. Alexander, a third-generation Greek-American, shared his family's journey and their dedication to preserving the unique charm of Jackson Hole.
Born and raised in New York City, family-run establishments serve up some of the best burgers in the country. Some of its celebrity regulars over the years include Jerry Seinfeld, President Trump, the Clintons, Denzel Washington, Derek Jeter, John McCain, Ed Sheeran, Harvey Keitel, Wyclef Jean, and Diane Sawyer—as well as Jennifer Aniston and John Ortiz, who both worked for the Jackson Hole Diner.
Alex, who was around 14-15 years old at the time, still fondly remembers his memories with the legendary actors of Goodfellas, Joe Pesci, Ray Liotta, and Robert De Niro, as they filmed a scene of the movie in Jackson Hole in 1990.
From ‘Goodfellas’ to Bendix: Diner Family Begins Massive Route 17 Restoration
Peter George Meskouris stood outside the Bendix Diner along Route 17 in Hasbrouck Heights on Tuesday morning, Dec. 30, watching as crews lifted the iconic structure off its foundation.
Variety of Food Factors Driving Diners to Close Today in 'Sad' Trend: Experts
Owner Alexander Meskouris grew up in the restaurant business and said he's doing his best to keep the nostalgic diners alive.
"It’s basically like a work of art, you know? You’re eating in a museum," said Meskouris.
More Bendix Articles
From ‘Goodfellas’ To Bendix: Diner Family Begins Massive Route 17 Restoration (AOL)
From 'Goodfellas' to Bendix: Diner Family Begins Massive Route 17 Restoration (MSN)
Bendix Diner In Bergen County Will Reopen After Renovations, New Owner Says: See Timeline
Golden Age Diner Manufacturing and Historical Documentation
During the 1950s, the “Golden Age” of the American diner, several prominent manufacturers specialized in prefabricating these iconic stainless-steel and neon structures. Many of these companies were concentrated in New Jersey, often called the “Diner Capital of the World.”
Major 1950s
Diner Manufacturers
Jerry O'Mahony Diner Company (Elizabeth, NJ)
One of the most prolific manufacturers, O'Mahony produced over 2,000 diners between 1917 and 1952. Their 1950s models are known for their long, narrow shapes and metal construction. The company ceased operations in 1952, with a final few built by an offshoot in the mid-50s.
Mountain View Diners Company (Singac, NJ)
This company outsold most competitors in the early 1950s due to aggressive marketing. Known for their streamlined post-war styling and aluminum designs, they ceased operations in 1957.
Kullman Dining Car Company (Lebanon, NJ)
Founded in 1927, Kullman built many high-quality, prefabricated diners. As demand for traditional diners waned, they diversified into other modular buildings and are one of the few brands whose legacy continues in the modular construction business.
Worcester Lunch Car Company (Worcester, MA)
A premier New England builder that operated until 1957. They were known for durable, smaller diners with distinctive porcelain enamel exteriors and oak and mahogany woodwork, contrasting with the all-metal New Jersey style.
Fodero Dining Car Company (Bloomfield, NJ)
Active from 1933 to 1981, Joseph Fodero's company was renowned for the sleek, stainless steel Art Deco appearance of its diners.
Paramount Dining Car Company (Haledon, NJ)
Paramount innovated by designing diners that could be shipped in multiple pieces and assembled on-site, allowing for larger and more varied shapes than the traditional single-car designs.
Valentine Manufacturing (Wichita, KS)
This company specialized in small, portable "diner boxes" that could be shipped on a single truck, popular for their efficiency and compact design.
Other Notable Manufacturers
DeRaffele Manufacturing Company
Based in New Rochelle, NY, they began in 1933 and remain one of the few original manufacturers still in business today.
Silk City Diners (Paterson, NJ)
A division of the Paterson Vehicle Company, they were a major force in the mid-century diner market.
Manno Dining Car Company
Founded in 1949 by former Kullman employees, they built various 1950s styles, including brick “colonial” and glass-facade designs.
Swingle Diner Manufacturing Inc
Known for being among the first to introduce the "Colonial-motif" diner style, featuring a brick exterior and mansard roof, in the early 1950s.
History Articles
Classic Diners, Offering a Glimpse Into the Past, are True Jersey Gems
Sitting in his family's tavern in Bayonne early in 1912, Jerry O'Mahony had an epiphany. He and his younger brother, Daniel, owned several lunch wagons. Towed by horses to choice locations throughout Hudson County...
America's Classic Diners Through the Decades
Diners are a cornerstone of America's food culture, known for their giant portions of home-style cooking, winking neon signs, and rocking jukeboxes. But did you know that their roots go right back to the 19th century..