New Jersey legislators have introduced the “Saving Our Diners and Protecting Our Past Act.”
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
HASBROUCK HEIGHTS, NJ — There is a glimmer of hope for the neon-lit crossroads of Bergen County. The legendary Bendix Diner, a North Jersey staple that has sat dark since January, may soon see its grills fired up once again.
After nearly a year of uncertainty following its forced closure due to safety violations, a potential “knight in shining armor” from the New York restaurant scene has emerged to save the 78-year-old eatery.
A New Vision: From Queens to Route 17
Peter Meskouris, co-owner of the famous Jackson Hole diner in Queens, recently teased on social media that he is in the process of purchasing the Bendix. Meskouris and his brother have become known as “diner rescuers,” expressing a mission to preserve the classic American diner culture that is rapidly disappearing from the tri-state area.
While the sale is not yet finalized, Meskouris indicated that plans for extensive renovations are already being drafted. The goal? To fix the long-standing fire suppression issues that led the town of Hasbrouck Heights to shutter the building, while preserving the 1947 “prefab” charm that makes the Bendix a cinematic icon.
The Heart of the Bendix: John Diakakis
The potential sale marks a bittersweet chapter for current owner John Diakakis. A single father who is legally blind, Diakakis became a local hero after a 2022 documentary showcased his incredible ability to run the high-volume diner despite his visual impairment.
The diner’s decline began during a grueling 2024, as Diakakis balanced the business with caring for his ailing mother. Following her passing late last year, the town moved in to close the restaurant.
“What I hope can happen is that we can get this place up and running again,” Diakakis said earlier this year. “Maybe it’s a pipe dream.” Today, that dream looks closer to reality than ever.
Why the Bendix Matters
Located at the busy intersection of Route 17 and Williams Avenue, the Bendix is more than just a place for eggs and coffee:
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Historic Origins: Opened in 1947, it was named after the Bendix Corporation, which operated a massive plant at the nearby Teterboro Airport.
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Hollywood History: Its classic stainless-steel aesthetic has made it a favorite filming location for movies and television shows.
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Commuter Landmark: For decades, it served as the unofficial “welcome to Bergen County” for truckers and commuters heading north from the city.
“Saving Our Diners”: New Jersey Fights Back
The struggle of the Bendix reflects a statewide crisis. Following the recent loss of the 85-year-old Americana Diner in Jersey City, New Jersey legislators have introduced the “Saving Our Diners and Protecting Our Past Act.”
If passed, this bill would provide:
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Sales Tax Exemptions: To help heritage diners stay afloat.
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Tax Credits: For renovations to historic restaurants included on a state registry.
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Grant Funding: Specifically aimed at preserving the “Diner Capital of the World.”
Bendix Diner Legacy at a Glance
| Feature | Detail |
| Established | 1947 |
| Location | Route 17 & Williams Ave, Hasbrouck Heights |
| Potential Buyer | Peter Meskouris (Jackson Hole, Queens) |
| Current Status | Closed for renovations/negotiations |
| Famous For | Blind owner John Diakakis & 1940s neon aesthetic |
Keywords: Bendix Diner Hasbrouck Heights, save the Bendix Diner, Peter Meskouris Jackson Hole, John Diakakis blind diner owner, Route 17 diner closing, Jersey diner tax credit bill, Bergen County historic sites.
Tags: #BendixDiner #HasbrouckHeights #BergenCounty #NJFoodies #SaveOurDiners #NorthJersey #Route17 #DinerLife
Last time I was there was maybe 10 years ago. I left without eating…felt claustrophobic in there.
God bless John.