The legendary Melrose Diner is set to be demolished soon. For many Philadelphians, especially life-long South Philly residents, the impending demolition of the iconic landmark isn’t a joyous occasion. In fact, it’s a bitter-sweet symbolic one.
The demolition of the diner also represents the demolition of a neighborhood haven, a place where countless memories were created.
The End of An Era
As the slogan goes,“everybody who knows goes to Melrose.” Since 1935, the diner has called South Philly home, or maybe it was the other way around. Maybe, South Philly called Melrose Diner home. After all, somewhere along the way the two were somewhat interchangeable. Undoubtedly it became a neighborhood staple where fine diner eats and people-watching were available 24 hours, seven days a week.
Since last July, after a fire broke out, Melrose Diner has been closed and recently plans have put in place to completely knock down the landmark.
Future Plans
Melrose 2.0
Although everyone loved the old Melrose Diner, Petrogiannis admitted it was in pretty rough shape and hopes the new vision will be just as adored.
“Hopefully something new for Passyunk Avenue, South Philly,” Petrogiannis told CBS. “I mean I’m sure there’s a lot of buildings in South Philadelphia but I’m hoping our building will be one of the top of the line.”
For now, we’ll all just have to hold our breaths for Melrose 2.0 and remember at the end of it all will be some really amazing food and nostalgic decor.