Market Diner (People of Interest)

From the mural on the far wall, the 50’s looking tables, and pie display, Market Diner shows a class of its own.

Located just off Park Street by the farmer’s market, Market Diner is owned and operated by Elaine and Tony Imbesi.

The thing that sets Market Diner apart from the rest is that although the Imbesi’s have only owned and operated the store since September, the diner has been in the family for the past 35 years. It all started when Elaine’s father, Pete Marinos, purchased the Diner back in 1974.

From seeing Elaine’s mother, Georgia Marinos, running the register, to Tony walking around with an apron on helping wherever he can, anyone can see that this is a family establishment.

Elaine talks about her heritage by saying she runs a “true Greek restaurant.”

“Everything is made from scratch. From our pies to our Reuben, everything is made with care and love,” states Tony.

Tony met Elaine in the third grade while they were growing up in Liverpool. They continued their schooling together until high school.

While Elaine stayed and attended Lemoyne, Tony received a culinary degree from the Art Institute in Miami.

From a large fretta at $6.99 to a steak dinner at $10.99, Market Diner caters to everyone.

“We serve all walks of life. From politicians to the homeless, we serve everyone,” Tony explains.

“And I know them all. It’s my job,” Tony says with a large grin on his face.

While the menu is simple, a patron can eat almost anything at Market Diner. A patron can order breakfast all day. Market Diner has a daily soup special as well as the daily lunch and dinner specials. The menu is also in the process of having vegetarian dishes added.

They are also doing their part in “going green.” There are no trans fats used in the kitchen and most things are recycled.

“It’s expensive and hard to do, but it’s important,” Tony says.

While Market Diner does not have delivery, they do take out. They also offer to send a daily menu special reminder to those who request it from their website, www.themarketdiner.com.
Market Diner is truly a legit family place. As legit as they come.

By Alisha Tondro, for Table Hopping – with Central New York Nightlife!

Published in March 2010 in Syracuse, NY