New Ewing Diner welcomes back counter culture

Anyone who knows anything about diners understands that people seated at the counter represent a different breed of eaters.

They rub elbows. Talk shop about politics. Sports. World stuff. Local gossip. And most of them, especially earlymorning visitors, are guys who leave their wives in bed for fraternity — it’s male bonding before heading home to tackle a “honey do” list.

The state mandated 25-percent capacity indoor dining rule offered six-feet of counter space Friday morning for Bucky Sandford and Jack Dressler as their lives regained some sense of normalcy.

Same for New Ewing Diner employees Allura White and Kim Weaver as they served hot coffee and breakfast as soon as indoor dining resumed beginning at 6 a.m.

Sandford and Dressler found counter seats just after opening.

“I used to come every day before (COVID-19). I’ve gone out for breakfast every day for just about my entire life. My wife doesn’t like it though,” Dressler said.

“Come in enough and friendships develop. That’s how Jack and I met.”

Their first counter introduction happened about a dozen years back then experienced interruption as coronavirus precaution suspended indoor dining in March.

Sandford limited breakfast visits to three per week when The New Ewing Diner opened for outdoor dining in June. He supplemented morning eating with fast food purchases.

“It was okay. Didn’t really like it because I love the counter experience. You have coffee, breakfast, talk, read the paper and then head home.”

Dressler, a retired Department of Transportation employee, seemed content with the flow of life although he despises masks.

“I communicate with people by seeing their eyes, facial expressions and mouths. It’s just so different but to be back eating inside and at the counter — it’s getting better,” Dressler offered.

Even before Peter Gromitsaris and Peter Kritsikokas created the New Ewing Diner (2000), a glitzy silver and red showplace, patrons flocked to its predecessor Parkway Diner. Weekends produced waiting lists and lines as tables attracted politicians, pastors and dedicated patrons.

Still the same. Friday’s indoor diners included Ewing Twp. Mayor Bert Steinmann as well as Shiloh Baptist Rev. Darrell Armstrong and Francis Thomas, chairman of Shiloh’s Deacon Ministry.

Steinmann found booth space. He underscored his limited impact on COVID-19 restrictions as Gov. Phil Murphy served as point man for state guidelines and timelines.

“When Gov. Murphy gave the go ahead for outdoor dining, we attempted to limit a lot of the red tape involved with installation of say, a tent.”

“We did what we could, especially with supporting small businesses because it’s important that they stay open. Indoor dining at 25-percent capacity here and at other restaurants represents a good first step.”

Steinmann frequents The New Ewing Diner and other local eateries and businesses. He said Ewing Twp. residents should support local businesses, especially during difficult times.

“I would call myself ‘a regular’ here and other places,” Rev. Armstrong, whose church advertises on the paper placemats on each table and counter, said.

“Chairman Thomas and I meet here occasionally. The food and service are absolutely good.”

Weaver heads the service staff with a 21-year work history while the White resume notes 15 years. Both stepped up their game as business gained momentum with indoor settings.

“It’s great to be back inside after several months of uncertainty about work, finances and health,” Weaver said.

Sandford tucked his creased newspaper under his arm. Dressler slipped on his darned mask and the friends paid their bill then exited.

Life seemed a little back to new normal at The New Ewing Diner.