By Mark Matthews
photo credit the West Jersey History Project site.
BROOKLAWN, NJ —When the diner first opened in 1960, it was called the South Grove Diner; its front was shaped like an ocean liner. This past May, a construction crew appeared at the site and began cleaning the grounds and making renovations to the inside and outside. Earl Foster, a Brooklawn resident who lives near the diner, had complained for some time about the property’s condition. As for now, he said, ” I watch almost daily as the Brooklawn Diner is being given a new life. The work going on there appears to be total and complete from the ground up, giving the diner a complete transformation and total renewal. My family and I frequented that diner since I was a young boy, and it’s really great to see this South Jersey landmark return to our community”.
There are three other diners located in the same area within a mile or two. The Metro Diner, (formerly Ponzio’s) Rt. 130 and Browning Road, Brooklawn, The Gateway Diner, 106 Broadway, Westville and The Piston Diner, 821 Crown Point Road, Westville.
A NEW NAME AND NEW OWNER FOR PONZIO’S DINER
BROOKLAWN-After 60 years, Ponzio’s Diner in Brooklawn (Rt. 130 and Browning Road) has changed its name to the Metro Diner. The Ponzio family opened the diner in 1949. That building was located in the same area, but more in the middle of the block. It looked like other diners you see in the area, silver in color and one story high. Inside, there was a long counter with stools to service customers and a number of booths. I am guessing, but I believe the present building seen in the photo replaced the original diner in the 1970s or thereabouts. Much bigger with two large dining rooms on one side and booths along with the counter and stools on the other side.
The Ponzio family sold their name and the restaurant to new owners some 8 years ago. Since that time the diner has had a number of owners all of who were unable to make a go of it.
The diner is closed now while the new owners are making renovations. They also own The Oregon Diner in Philadelphia.
After reading reviews on The Oregon Diner, along with the mission statement for that restaurant, area residents are in for a treat when The Metro opens sometime in the Fall.
From the Oregon Diner website …Our mission is to provide only the freshest and finest foods possible at a reasonable price to our guests. In addition, we will provide the highest degree of service possible. We will treat each and every one of our guests like they are family visiting our home. We will strive to keep all areas of our restaurant spotless. We also welcome all of our guests’ questions and comments about the products and services we provide.
The Oregon Diner has been family-owned and operated since 1992.