Limerick Diner, a neighborhood staple since the mid-1950s, fell victim to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021.

But in Oct. 2022, signs of life appeared: a repaved parking lot, a revived electric sign on Ridge Pike; new lights glowing above the countertops and booths.

The effort culminated in the Feb. 6, 2023, Limerick Diner reopening.

Paul Tsiknakis is one of its four new owners. He came to the Limerick Diner with a regional résumé of reviving spots just like it.

“We originally bought the building because it was a great deal,” he said. “But then, we found out this is a great diner town, and we needed to bring our expertise to Limerick.”

The renovation was all-encompassing. “Brand-new kitchen; brand-new booths, tables, menu,” he said.

Throughout the design refresh, however, Tsiknakis stressed one goal: retain the charm.

The eatery’s fans proved so loyal that several of them rapped on the door during the revitalization work, asking about a reopen date.

Reciprocating that dedication is a Tsiknakis priority.

“We’re going to do the best we can to please [customers] and to make sure that everything’s perfect. And if it’s not, we’ll make it right,” he said.

Tsiknakis’ business associate Billy Dovas echoed the sentiment.

“We understand what our customers have been missing,” he said. “And we intend to be that local place where people meet after church or kids’ sporting events and have a meal at a reasonable price.”

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The Limerick Diner had plenty of company during its 1950s beginnings.