Lawrence Township mayor Cathleen Lewis and Route 1 Diner general manager Josh Onao at the diner’s grand opening March 21, 2014.
By Jessica Oates
In January 2014, Crystal Diner made a transformation from an old fashioned diner to a more modernized restaurant, now called Route 1 Diner under the new ownership of the Onao family.
The diner has been in its current location on Business Route 1 for years, and its big claim to fame is that George Clooney stopped in to eat once. But much of the long-preserved nostalgic atmosphere has changed over the last few months in favor of a more modern design.
At first glance, one might pass by the diner without even realizing anything has changed. But inside, everything is different, said general manager Josh Onao. Onao’s father, Yucel, and uncle, Gunay, decided to take ownership of the restaurant after many years of work as chefs in other kitchens.
“They were chefs for years at Route 130 Diner in Delran and Golden Eagle Diner in Bristol, Pa., and they were so good at it,” Onao said. “My father is such a good cook. When the opportunity presented itself, I urged them to buy Crystal Diner so that they could run the business exactly as they like to.”
The name isn’t the only thing that has changed since the Onaos took over a few months ago. Onao said everything has changed, from the menu to the décor. Though some people loved the old-fashioned diner feel that Crystal Diner offered, Onao said most customers seem impressed by the transformation.
“We gave it a more modern makeover,” he said. “Everything is brand new, very clean and cutting edge. We are getting lots of positive feedback.”
The menu has been completely redone, featuring daily specials and options for breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert. The diner also offers a regular senior citizen discount of 10 percent off of lunch and dinner.
Onao, a business student at Burlington County Community College planning to transfer to Rutgers Business School at Camden, said that in addition to its affordable dining options, the restaurant is focusing on providing excellent service to every customer.
“Come on in and see what’s new,” he said. “You won’t be disappointed.”
Route 1 Diner is located at 2009 U.S. 1 in Lawrence. Phone: (609) 392-3500.
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