The Red Lion Diner, a lengthy-standing establishment in Southampton Township, New Jersey, has been sold, leaving consumers shocked and saddened. Paul Tsiknakis, the owner, reflected on the bittersweet moment as he cleaned and packed up the diner’s belongings. The diner, when bustling with conversations, now sits empty and closed.
Tsiknakis took more than the Red Lion Diner 5 and a half years ago, but its history spans back 5 decades. Situated on the circle at Routes 206 and 70, the diner was a regional landmark and a well known cease for travelers heading down the shore. Tsiknakis expressed his appreciation for the loyal employees and consumer base, but eventually, the diner fell victim to the influence of COVID-19.
In the course of the height of the pandemic, Tsiknakis entered into a contractual agreement with a developer, intending to make a new diner. Even so, increasing building charges and interest prices disrupted his plans. In spite of initially organizing to maintain the diner open for 30 days to steadily empty it out, Tsiknakis was informed by attorneys that this was not feasible, resulting in the sudden closure.
Clients reminisced about their fond memories at the Red Lion Diner, expressing their disappointment at its closure. Tsiknakis revealed plans for a proposed Wawa to be constructed on the website, but he ensured that some of the diner’s history would be preserved. A single notable piece, a ten,000-pound marble lion referred to as Leo, which when graced the diner’s front, has been sold to a regional metal organization. The proceeds from the sale have been donated to the United Trooper’s Fund, permitting Leo’s legacy to reside on in the town.
