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SBA urges Iowans to nominate their favorite small business for an award
There are all kinds of small businesses in Iowa that we can’t do without, from diners and donut shops to tailors and auto mechanics, and it’s time to recognize those merchants that make our lives better. Ryan Lincoln, the Iowa district director of the U.S. Small Business Administration, says the agency is taking nominations for […]
How Chick-fil-A started, grew into a major company
Chick-fil-A has come a long way since opening as a small roadside diner in Georgia in 1946.
SPECIAL REPORT: Tough Business
A string of vacant restaurant buildings shows that many restaurants in the region are struggling — and several are closing By Stefan Yablonski [caption id=attachment_11132 align=alignright width=401] Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill on Route 31 in Clay closed its doors in April. It had been in operation since at least 2008.[/caption] By their nature, most restaurants have a limited life. An astonishing 60% go out of business within three years of opening, largely due to fundamental flaws in the planning of the operation. But even restaurants that experience years of success almost always face eventual closure. The restaurant business is very hard and because of both personal factors and external factors beyond anyone’s control, restaurants don’t last forever. For many restaurants, age is a big factor, according to Kenneth Walsleben, professor of practice, entrepreneurship and emerging enterprises at Syracuse University. “The owners have been at it for 20 or 25 years, if not longer, they want some time to themselves,” he said. Such was the case for Jocko’s Famous Ritz Diner in Oswego. Jocko Reitz bought the building in the late 1970s from Robert Shapiro. However, when he stepped away from the business, it eventually closed. [caption id=attachment_11142 align=alignright width=402] For nearly 80 years, Vona’s Restaurant passed through three generations of family in Oswego. It closed its doors on Dec. 31, 2025.[/caption] For nearly 80 years, Vona’s passed through three generations of family in Oswego. Vona’s Restaurant officially closed its doors on Dec. 31, 2025, when no family member wanted to take over. It is on the market. The Ruby Tuesday in Oswego operated for about two decades before permanently closing in April 2026. The restaurant faced multiple temporary health department closures in 2024 and 2025 due to persistent fruit fly and foundation pest issues. Management posted a final closure notice on the doors in mid-April 2026 and the building was put up for sale. The same pattern has been happening in Onondaga County. The big building once used by Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill on Route 31 in Clay remains empty, more than six months after the restaurant closed its doors in April. It had been in operation since at least 2008. [caption id=attachment_11130 align=alignright width=401] Ruby Tuesday in Oswego operated for about two decades before permanently closing in April 2026.[/caption] Just down the road from Smokey Bones, the popular Outback Steakhouse closed in August 2024. Another restaurant took its place, La Cocina Mexican Restaurant, but it closed shortly after. The building sits empty. Other very popular restaurants in the northern suburbs of Syracuse have recently closed. Among them, Fireside by the River in Baldwinsville and Primo Nestico’s Bistro Bar in North Syracuse. “I haven’t really paid attention to the Syracuse area. There has always been some turnover, but there probably has never been a tougher time to be a restauranter than now. It’s just brutal,” Walsleben said. In the first year, roughly 20% to 25% of restaurants close or change hands, according to the National Restaurant Association. [caption id=attachment_11122 align=alignright width=401] Outback Steakhouse closed in August 2024. Another restaurant took its place, La Cocina Mexican Restaurant, but it closed shortly after. The building sits empty.[/caption] “Depending on what statistics you look at, you’ll find that any business has a high mortality rate in the first year. That is just the nature of entrepreneurship,” Walsleben said. “There are certain ones that are getting hit hard while others are more fruitful. “And when you look at the restaurant industry you have to factor in labor which is a large part — typically a third of your expenses — and those costs are going up. And there is always turnover which means investing money to train people. Then you’ve got food costs, which is also a third of the typical restaurant budget. Since the pandemic labor has gone up 41%, food costs have gone up 35%. That’s a big tight squeeze righty there. That’s two-thirds of your budget that has gone up 35% to 40% in the last few years. And then the only way you can make that work is to raise the prices.” The National Restaurant Association reports menu prices are up 36% since February of 2020. In a survey released by the association, more than eight in 10 restaurant owners reported that their food, beverage and labor costs are now higher than before the pandemic. You have to deal with the reality of are the customers willing to pay for that? Walsleben added. Restaurants historically have very thin margins; their profit margin is about 5%. “You have a third that goes into food, a third that goes into labor and about 28%, 29% that goes into everything else — overhead, insurance etc. So that brings you down to your 5% leftover,” he said. “Everything is going up. Customer expectations are going up and people aren’t going to spend that much more. So, you have a tight squeeze here,” Walsleben continued. “Restaurants who use delivery apps, they pay a fee to those guys. Those guys don’t work for free. So, you can kind of see where the squeeze comes from.” Stuck in the middle There are pockets of opportunity; the two extremes of the market can make a profit. But the middle gets squeezed out. “If you are a low-end fast-food kind of place, there is room for that. People have changed their budgets. They are still going out, but they are not spending more,” according to Walsleben. “The high end remains positive. If you have a restaurant that brings a specific experience … a great food product or you are catering to high end customers who aren’t so budget conscious, those patrons are going to expect a high-end experience. They expect excellent food every time. They are expecting excellent service. If you can meet those expectations there is room for you at the top. It’s just the guys in the middle are getting the squeeze from both ends. Tough competition, customer expectations, costs are up. Menu items, you can’t raise the prices as much as you need to. That is why you are seeing a lot of restaurants baling out.” The ones that can adapt quickly are the ones who are doing OK. “Success is heavily dependent on the strength of a restaurant’s concept development and the planning of its execution. Eventually things aren’t always new. Things change. So, if you are in the restaurant business you have got to change your menu — keep things new, fresh and update your meals. It is very fickle industry. One year carbs are out, the next year berries are out. Everybody’s diet changes — constantly chasing the latest phase. You have got to adjust your menu and move with those modifications. If you have a static menu that you have used the last couple years that hasn’t changed except for the pricing, you’ve got a problem,” he said. A lot of times these buildings are singular purpose, he added. “You have a commercially viable kitchen and you got a seating area. There is not a lot of other businesses that cater to that type of a layout. So, it’s pretty common to see another restaurant slide in,” he said. One of the things a banker learns early on is you don’t lend money to restaurants … because they fail so quickly. It is very hard to predict who the winners will be. So, if you are a restaurant in addition to all the other challenges, it is very difficult to get loans, according to Walsleben. “You might work really well in the kitchen. But that doesn’t mean you are a great businessperson,” he said. “Restaurants can fail because the owner didn’t know how to manage things properly. There are a lot of challenges. “There is opportunity at the high end and the low end. But in the middle, that’s the death valley. There are just so many things working against you. You really need to have something that will pull people in and continue to pull people in because you to constantly have to change. Think about a theme and a product that is unique to the area people don’t travel that far these days you have to be able to deliver it in an innovative fashion and keep updating to keep people coming in the door.” Out of Business? How Fast? Do nine out of 10 restaurants fail in their first year, as commonly claimed? No. Survival analysis of 1.9 million longitudinal microdata for 81,000 full-service restaurants in a 20-year U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics non public census of business establishments in the western US shows that only 17% of independently owned full-service restaurant startups failed in their first year, compared with 19% for all other service-providing startups, according to ResearchGate. The median lifespan of restaurants is about 4.5 years, slightly longer than that of other service businesses (4.25 years). However, the median lifespan of a restaurant startup with 5 or fewer employees is 3.75 years, slightly shorter than that of other service businesses of the same startup size (4.0 years). What Makes a Restaurant Successful? Opening and maintaining a successful restaurant is not as easy as creating a great menu and serving excellent food. It takes more than that, according to local restaurant owners who have been in business for decades in the region. They all agree that there are some guidelines to running a successful restaurant. • Quality food: Successful restaurants know exactly what they serve and who they serve it to. Delivering the same great taste every single time builds loyal customers. • Smooth operations: Friendly greetings and attentive staff make guests feel welcome from the moment they walk in. Hiring staff for personality and training for skill ensures reliable, caring service. • Smart marketing: Exceptional food and experiences naturally get people talking and sharing online. Word of mouth can help entice customers. Consistent social media and targeted advertising brings in new and repeat guests also. The menu is what keeps patrons coming back to Mimi’s Diner in Fulton, located at 201 N. Second St. “We locally source our produce and our meats. Our chicken and biscuits is a popular, popular special,” said Richard Tagliareni, the third-generation owner and general manager. “It’s all homemade. We have consistently served quality food.” His grandfather started the business more than 55 years ago. Mimi’s is engrained in the community. They cater to the community and are very involved in everything from the schools to local events. The first Mimi’s Drive-In opened in Mexico. Then a second in Oswego and then Fulton. Fulton’s Mimi’s is the only one left. “The last couple of weeks have been kind of slower than normal. October is usually a busier month for us People will start coming back around again. Also, the price of gas is affecting some things,” Tagliareni added. “We try to keep our prices in line. You go out to eat, you’re going to spend about a hundred bucks or so for two people for dinner. You come here to Mimi’s you are probably for two people for dinner it’s between $50 and $60. We are trying to keep our prices in line. We did have to increase our prices a little bit but things are looking OK.” For the Press Box, 29 E. First St., Oswego, it’s also about great food and a family atmosphere. “Our sports bar and restaurant was established in 1984,” said Alison Canale Scanlon, manager. “I think putting the time into everything makes a big difference and treating people like family when they walk into your restaurant. That’s how we have always operated since 1984.” “It’s the family oriented aspect,” she added. “Consistency, quality and presentation of our food — that’s the secret to a successful restaurant. We try to be very consistent with it. We treat people like family when they come in; because we know how we want to be treated when we go to a restaurant. We treat people the same or better.”
Shake Shack is coming to Iowa. Here’s where its first location opens
Shake Shack plans to open its first Iowa restaurant at the new Hollywood Casino Hotel in Council Bluffs in 2028. Here’s what diners can expect.
CEO SUNDAY: Denny’s CEO shares the simple rule guiding his turnaround of the iconic diner chain
As Denny’s pursues its turnaround strategy, CEO Christopher Bode says staying focused on the company’s biggest priorities is critical to avoiding “organizational creep."
Weight Loss Drugs Give Restaurants a New Hurdle: Diners Who Eat Less
Fewer orders and higher costs are squeezing restaurants big and small as people on the weight-loss drugs eat and drink less when dining out.
Big Night Entertainment: Nightlife meets culinary innovation
From transforming a 1950’s-style diner to operating 20 casino restaurants, nightclubs, and more, 20 years later.
Now AI is trying to gobble up dinner reservations
A venture capitalist got banned from Resy for using a personal AI assistant, opening up a conversation about how bots may make dining out a headache for diners and restaurateurs alike.
'Law & Order: SVU' films at old-timey Westchester diner
Westchester diner may (or may not) have been scene for Mariska Hargitay TV shoot.
Jersey Mike’s (JMKE) Owns the Sub Business. Winning Over Younger Diners is the Next Fight
On September 1, 2026, the Wall Street Journal reported that Jersey Mike’s Subs Inc. (NYSE:JMKE), a Blackstone-backed sandwich chain that went public in July, has built a dominant position with affluent, older customers but still needs to attract Generation Z to sustain its growth, since roughly 70% of its customers skew toward older, more established […]
UA Trustees seek review of athletic program competitiveness
With Razorback football program failure becoming an obvious concern debated with varying degrees of vigor in many breakfast diners statewide, a member of the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees...
Study shows benefits of coffee for liver health
Cleveland Clinic hepatologist Dr. Nizar Zein was not part of the study, but says it showed that people who drank five or more cups a day had a 32% lower risk of cirrhosis, a 47% lower risk of liver…
Nearly 50 years in business, The Pantry is Macomb County’s breakfast table
Joe Moceri originally opened the Sterling Heights location in May of 1978, serving up omelets, crepes, pancakes, sandwiches and the kind of hospitality that keeps generations of diners coming back.
2 South Florida men sentenced in $34.8M health care fraud conspiracy, DOJ says
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Kenneth Charles Kessler III, a Miami man, and Michael Andrew Gomez, a Miramar man, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud.
Mountain View Diner closes after 26 years of business
The Mountain View Diner announced Thursday it has permanently closed after 26 years of business.
Fazoli's remaining location in Sioux Falls closes
Sioux Falls diners no longer have access to unlimited breadsticks from Fazoli's.
The most iconic breakfast restaurant in every state
From diners to brunch spots, here are some of the most iconic restaurants to grab breakfast in every state.
Police, Gambling Control Unit conduct raid at Lisbon, Maine, business
Police from Gardiner, working with the Maine Gambling Control Office, conducted a raid at a business in Lisbon on Monday morning. Crews were seen using a forklift to remove boxes.
Gardiner police, Maine gambling unit conduct search at Lisbon business
The Gardiner Police Department was informed of a possibly illegally operated gambling machine at an establishment in Gardiner in January.
Column: Solo diners are the face of ‘me-conomics’
A former colleague — terribly self-important because of winning a number of journalism prizes — once took a protege out to a fancy lunch spot in New York City. When
El Paso's most booked restaurants of 2026 revealed by OpenTable
OpenTable released its rankings on Aug. 6, highlighting the El Paso restaurants that diners are booking the most. Here's the list.
Bergenfield Theater Set to Become Restaurant, Entertainment Spot
A restaurant and entertainment concept is taking shape at 58-60 South Washington Ave. in Bergenfield. Diners will eat on the first floor. The second floor is where the action happens….
New Business Poised To Replace Omega Restaurant
Greek diner's days appear to be numbered, with demolition planned.
Stella's Diner, mainstay in Chicago's East Lakeview community, goes out of business
Stella's Diner in Chicago's East Lakeview community has gone out of business.
Jensen Huang says this is the greatest time in history to start a business—and his advice is to stop overthinking it: ‘How hard can it be?’
The billionaire CEO has spent the last three decades building Nvidia —but says one simple mindset helped turn a diner-booth idea into a $4.7 trillion giant.
Health officials seek diners after rabid bat lands on California restaurant table
San Diego County health officials are searching for anyone who may have touched a rabid bat after it landed on a family’s table inside the Yellow Deli Restaurant in Vista, California.
'The restaurant remains open': Gee, Ursula stunned by Capitol Hill business owner's alleged $1.5M tax scheme
A Capitol Hill restaurant faces scrutiny as its owner is charged with stealing $1.5M in payroll taxes from employees.
Ernst Names Small Business of the Week, Taylor’s Maid-Rite
Read the release on Sen. Ernst's website HERE. Throughout this Congress, Chair Ernst plans to recognize a small business in every one of Iowa’s 99 counties. RED OAK, Iowa – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Chair of the Senate Small Business Committee, today announced her Small Business of the Week: Taylor's Maid-Rite of Marshall County. Throughout the 119th Congress, Chair Ernst plans to recognize a small business in each of Iowa's 99 counties. "Taylor's Maid-Rite has truly maid their mark as a cornerstone of Marshalltown's business community," said Chair Ernst. "For nearly a century, this shop has served generations of Iowans with a signature burger made fresh every day. This 'Maid in Iowa' success story has proven that consistency, quality, and genuine customer care are the recipe for lasting success." Founded in the heart of Marshalltown, Taylor's Maid-Rite has remained a family-owned business for nearly a century and is now entering its fourth generation of Taylor family ownership. Best known for its signature Maid-Rite sandwich, the restaurant also serves classic American diner favorites, including malts, pies, fries, and sodas. Throughout its history, Taylor's Maid-Rite has remained committed to fresh ingredients, personalized service, and strong community involvement. Stay tuned as Chair Ernst continues to recognize outstanding Iowa small businesses with her Small Business of the Week award. ###
Stella's Diner in East Lakeview closed for health violations, weeks after sister restaurant The Bagel
Inspectors last week shut down Stella's Diner in Chicago's East Lakeview community after finding a cockroach infestation and other health code violations.
Open & Shut: Anchorage gets a Turkish diner, an El Green-Go’s eatery, a Nordic spa and a dog boarding business
A pottery shop and a stationery store also opened, plus there’s a new club in place of the Gaslight Lounge. A barbecue joint has closed.
Sweet Tomatoes plots return after Covid-linked liquidation
Fort Myers is one of two cities nationally that Sweet Tomatoes has chosen for its rebirth after shuttering its 97 restaurants in 2020. And diners are loving it.
Chicago police looking for burglars who hit 4 Bridgeport businesses overnight, including Stussy's Diner
Five Science Fiction Movies to Stream Now
This month’s recommendations include a dreamscape space opera, a dark time-travel diner comedy and an existential alien thriller.
I visited Fraunces Tavern, the oldest restaurant in New York City
I visited Fraunces Tavern, New York City's oldest tavern and restaurant, which has welcomed diners for more than 250 years.
Tariffs continue to add uncertainty to business climate: Top Workplaces 2026
Companies like Gardiner HVAC in Solon are navigating fluctuating prices and supply chain disruptions as tariff policy remains volatile more than a year after implementation.
World Cup business is not booming for some near MetLife Stadium. Here's why.
The owner of a New Jersey diner says World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium have been bad for business.
Downtown Bryan business owners react to parking ordinance changes
Following Bryan city council approving a new ordinance to enforce parking in downtown Bryan, local business owners voice their approval for the change hoping to see more spots taken by local shoppers and diners.
Knapp’s, an iconic Tacoma diner, closes after nearly 90 years in business
Knapp’s Restaurant and Lounge has closed, according to a sign posted on its front door on Monday. The Proctor diner and bar opened in 1938.
Failure is the foundation of science
Amanda Gardiner reflects on why failure is an essential and valuable part of scientific research
'Diners, Drive-Ins, And LIES': Guy Fieri Slammed For Allegedly Not Swallowing Any Food
There's a fun conspiracy theory going around on the internet right now that claims Guy Fieri never actually swallows any of the food he eats on his show.
West End Business Association brings expanded ‘Best of the West’ festival to Ben Brenman Park
The West End Business Association continues to look for ways to raise the visibility of West End businesses with its returning festival in a larger-than-ever format. Best of the West will return for a third year from 12-6 p.m. Saturday, June 6 in Ben Brenman Park (4800 Brenman Park Drive) in the Cameron Station neighborhood.
Time is right: Mansfield restaurateur Dan Lew buying Coney Island Diner business on Main Street
Longtime local restaurateur Dan Lew, owner of DLX in Mansfield, is buying the Coney Island Diner business on North Main Street.
South Philly’s Morning Glory Diner: Homemade breakfasts with a spicy political topping
At the restaurant that “made brunch cool again,” mocking Trump and loving Democrats.
State College business owner shares excitement over revival of classic downtown diner
Iconic diner chain set to close dozens of locatons after 60 years in business
The chain is shaking things up to try to stay competitive.
Health officials warn NYC Italian eatery patrons of possible exposure to measles by infected diner
Downtown State College Diner Closes After 6 Months in Business
A downtown State College diner has closed just over six months after opening. Bubba's Eggs, Steaks & Shakes, 131 S. Garner St., announced it permanent
King Charles' speech ‘unified’ both sides of the ‘political aisle:’ Former Margaret Thatcher aide
Former foreign policy advisor to Margaret Thatcher Nile Gardiner reacts to King Charles III's address to Congress on ‘The Story.’
Lindy’s Diner wall collapses days after city shut business down due to safety concerns
Northeast exterior wall at Lindy’s Diner site falls days after city closure; owner suspects it “wasn’t a natural collapse.”
Lindy’s Diner wall collapses days after city shut business down due to safety concerns
Northeast exterior wall at Lindy’s Diner site falls days after city closure; owner suspects it “wasn’t a natural collapse.”
Georgia-based Waffle House to add retail store to downtown diner
Atlanta’s iconic 24-hour diner wants to sell merchandise during the global soccer event this summer.
Multiple people robbed at gunpoint inside River North business
Police did not identify the business robbed. According to reports, the incident took place inside a popular 24-hour diner.
Maine health, science experts speak on U.S. EPA cuts impacting communities
During Earth Day, science and public health officials gathered in Gardiner to bring attention to the Trump administrations deregulations on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
On Earth Day, environmental and health experts call on EPA to restore protections
Environmental and health experts joined the Natural Resources Council of Maine to call on the Environmental Protection Agency to restore protective policies. The group gathered in Gardiner on Earth Day Wednesday, to highlight the impacts severe EPA cuts will have on Maine’s environment and residents. “Today is Earth Day, but as we look around Maine, […]
Jigi Dinero has the latest in entertainment headlines
Drake sent fans in a frenzy to find out his new album release date, plus other top stories from Jigi.
UNC Hussman offers new sports play-by-play class | UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media
This story, written by UNC Hussman alumna Caroline Daly ’24, was originally published on unc.edu. The UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media has a new, hands-on class available for students interested in sports careers. Students in “MEJO 390: Sports Commentary and Play-By-Play” can call live radio broadcasts for Carolina sporting events, streamed live on the Go Heels website. This spring, 11 students are calling mostly softball games to gain experience and learn the preparation needed for a successful broadcast. The class is capped at a small number to provide consistent, individual feedback. Matt Krause, the radio voice of Carolina women’s basketball, teaches the class to help students sharpen their skills, using his experience with the Tar Heels and calling games for ACC Network and ACC Network Extra. “There is no substitute for live reps, and that is the only way you get better. The classroom component teaches you how to get better, but going about that requires sitting in that chair, making mistakes and being able to know your broadcast is going somewhere,” Krause said. “These students are doing real live games, and they will have tape where if they want to pursue this. They will have ready-made demos to send for jobs. Being able to utilize all the resources of UNC, GoHeels Productions and the Carolina Athletics brand and create these opportunities for students is really impactful.” In the class, students learn fundamentals like how to announce starting lineups for different sports and how to conduct research before games. Krause has led the class in mock preparation exercises, looking at game charts with information about the different teams and players that they can refer to at pivotal moments during the game. Krause and the students then critique each other, listening to clips from the past week to find ways to improve. It’s a rare class without a slew of quizzes or assignments. Their main tasks are calling games and making a portfolio or demo reel of their best calls at the end of the semester, all with the goal of being ready to step into similar roles after graduation. Laible live streams her coverage on the GoHeels website. Calling a live game while broadcasting her coverage allows her to get hands on experience. (Jon Gardiner/UNC-Chapel Hill) Junior Anna Laible ’27 wished for a class just like this. Her first year at Carolina, she interned with the Coastal Plain League, where she was introduced to play-by-play for baseball. “I enjoy the challenge and uncertainty of each game being different because each sport looks a little different,” said Laible. “Each game is different — not just with teams but what could happen with certain records being broken or random trends. That’s what I enjoy most.” She wanted more opportunities for reps during college to prepare for a career after Carolina, so she pitched an idea for the class to Livis Freeman ’99, distinguished associate professor of sports communication. Laible and Freeman reached out to GoHeels Productions for a partnership and then connected with Krause. “This is how at UNC Hussman we separate ourselves: Our students go into the field ready,” said Freeman. “The biggest compliment we get it is when our students start their careers, they don’t need any hand-holding.” Laible calls a Carolina softball game at Kessing Stadium – after pitching the idea to Hussman faculty. Her interest in sports commentary allowed her to apply her interest as she attends Carolina. (Jon Gardiner/UNC-Chapel Hill) Laible is now a student in the class, which has helped her strengthen her skills and deepen her passion for the field. The goal is to expand to other sports like soccer, lacrosse and field hockey. “The hands-on experience I’ve gotten here is invaluable. I’ve loved the classes and professors because they’ve taught me a lot, but it’s also the things outside of class, too, that have helped me grow,” said Laible. “Since being at UNC, I’ve grown a lot in the versatility, from doing writing to production and commentating. UNC Hussman and Carolina have given me the ability to be strong and well rounded.”
First-Year Business Student Invites UConn Diners to ‘Swipe’ for Easy Dining Hall Nutrition Info
Each day, Swipe collects data from Dining Services about the menu items offered in each location and serves it up through an easy-to-use interface
Where will diners park at downtown food hall?
Developer Jim Long of Heritage Real Estate Co. says there should be plenty of parking options, with nearby garages and metered parking.
Seniors: Carol Watson, 72
Owner of Carol Watson Greenhouse and Landscaping in LaFayette enjoys her growing business — still puts in six-, seven-day weeks By Mary Beth Roach Carol Watson, the owner of Carol Watson Greenhouse and Landscaping, has been in gardens since she could walk. Literally. She said she learned to walk in her grandfather’s garden, which was next door to her current home and business in LaFayette. Today, at 72, she is running the business that her mother, Claire, opened in 1981 as Watson Greenhouse. Watson worked part-time for her mom until 1990, when she joined her full time. While she may not have had any formal horticultural experience, she said she learned so much about growing and raising plants from her mom, who had an abundance of energy and talent. Now, after 35 years in the business full time, Watson has no plans to retire, although she joked that she’d like a couple of days off a week. On her seven-acre site, complete with four greenhouses, Watson said her favorite parts of the job are working with and educating her customers; helping some of her young customers build terrariums; conducting occasional class field trips; and supporting local art by decorating the shop with an eclectic mix of pottery from at least four area craftspeople. A one-time employee of the former Dey Bros. department store in Syracuse, Watson said she loves merchandising and enjoys displaying unique pieces of art on shelves and even suspending from ceilings. “We’re creative. We also had top quality plants. We got a reputation of quality plants and unusual products,” she said. It’s tending to her customers and her plants, showcasing the unusual products, and hosting special events to benefit the community that keep her motivated to work six to seven days a week. “I just love it. I love taking care of the plants. I’m one of the few people that really enjoys watering,” she said. And while she has cultivated a solid customer base over the years, she remains savvy in her marketing efforts to draw in new customers. For example, she does a gardening segment on CNY Central television; her active Facebook page has thousands of followers; and she hosts a number of unique events and classes that not only introduce her shop to potential new clients, but some benefit nonprofits as well. About 13 years ago, when the local symphony orchestra was struggling, she said she wanted to help. So, partnering with the group, she began offering concerts, called Soirees, featuring the Syracuse Orchestra’s string quartet. Following up on a suggestion from a customer whose brother is a deejay in retirement, specializing in sock hops, she hosted the greenhouse’s first sock hop. Plants got moved back toward the walls to make room for dancing; a caterer was brought in, offering diner-like food; guests came in period outfits; and proceeds went to the Food Bank of CNY. She is excited about doing it again in October. Via her website, she promotes the greenhouse as an “oasis in the snow,” offering visitors the opportunity to pick up some decorating and gift ideas while taking in the floral and citrus scents. And she also caters to her four-legged friends. Over this past winter, she said, she came up with a “brilliant idea,” although at the time she didn’t appreciate just how brilliant it would become. Feeling it too cold outside to take her dog for a walk, she opted to bring it into the greenhouse. And before long, she was inviting people to bring their dogs into the big greenhouse as well. She looks forward to extending that invitation again this upcoming winter season. For Watson and her customers, the greenhouse is always in season.
If You Visit JoJo’s Diner, Bring Your Appetite
By Stefan Yablonski Q: When did you open? A: We opened Oct. 1. Q: Did you have a previous business? A: This is my first business ever. Q: So why did you start this? A: I was cooking for people my entire life and I decided I’m just going to try it on my own. And here we are! Q: How’s business been? A: It’s been good. Kind of slow over the winter, but starting to pick up now that the weather is getting better. We have high hopes for spring. We were really hopping over the weekend when it was much nicer out. Q: What’s your best dish? A: Our junkyard plates are our huge specialty. It’s a huge messy plate of goodness. We also have breakfast sandwiches, waffles, smashburgers and more. Q: Do you own this building? A: We lease from Chuck Burger. He’s our landlord. He has been super helpful. He provided all the equipment. I didn’t have to. Q: You’re a breakfast spot? A: We do breakfast and lunch all day. It’s kind of our thing. We are open 7-3 every day except Tuesdays. Q: How big is your staff? A: Currently it’s one other person. It’s just been me on the front end and someone in the kitchen or vice versa. Q: It’s all to go? A: Everything comes out ‘to go’ — served in to-go containers. You can eat inside or you can take it with you. We don’t have to provide extra staff for waitresses and dishwashers and all that. Q: Do you have any business background? A: I did the small business program at the college. But that’s about it. We’re new, but we’re still building. We hope to grow and stay here for a long time.
Is The Tesla Diner A Flop? (Review)
It’s cool to hate the Tesla Diner. Not because it’s a failure (it’s not) but because Elon Musk is associated with it.
Chesterfield diner closes due to family, health issues
A Chesterfield County diner has closed its doors due to personal family concerns, according to the diner.
See scenes from 'Fantasy Life,' written by former Westchester resident
Former Larchmont resident Matthew Shear wrote, directed and stars in 'Fantasy Life', which hits theaters nationwide April 3.
High-Protein Mac & Cheese, Broccoli Chips Target Health-Conscious Diners
Packaged food is getting a makeover with options that are aligned with today’s eating habits.
Open AI boss Sam Altman’s appearance at Hollywood celebrity hangout sparks rumors of a big move into the entertainment biz
If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em. On Saturday night before the Oscars, Tower Bar was packed with entertainment and media names — but the most talked about diner wasn’t from...
Egypt’s Mixed Signals: Activist Releases Amid Crackdowns Signal Fragile Politics
2026 began uneasily for Syrians in Egypt. In Rehab City, an upscale suburb east of Cairo that became home to many Syrians fleeing civil war under the Assad regime, security officials entered a crowded restaurant and asked diners to produce their residency permits. Scenes like this have become increasingly common in Egypt, alongside a malicious…
West Miami-Dade restaurant owner says family of 7 left her business without paying tab - WSVN 7News | Miami News, Weather, Sports
WEST MIAMI-DADE, FLA. (WSVN) - A restaurant owner is speaking out after she said a family of seven dined at her business but left withoutRead More
How Domino's is trying to double its business during a rough patch for big pizza rivals
Domino's Pizza posted better-than-expected earnings and said it is winning over lower-income diners with value offerings.
Snow surge in Sierra sparks business boom in Truckee
Along Donner Pass Road, the Wagon Train diner—an area staple established in the 1940s—has been especially busy as residents and visitors look for a warm place to gather.
Over hot plates and politics, diners divided on Trump's Fort Bragg visit
At the Rainbow Restaurant in Fayetteville, diners served up differing opinions on President Trump's Fort Bragg visit.
Sam Rockwell Stars as a Time-Traveling Hero in Sci-Fi Comedy ‘Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die’
A time-travelling hero (Sam Rockwell) arrives at a diner on a quest to save the world from the excesses of artificial intelligence. He’s seen the future, when machines are in charge and humans are ens...
Bayer and celebrity chef keep diners in the dark to shed light on heart health
Bayer has cooked up the next phase of its “See Your Risks” campaign, tapping Food Network star Jeff Mauro as its sous chef. | Bayer has cooked up the next phase of its “See Your Risks” campaign with celebrity chef Jeff Mauro. The drugmaker is offering people the chance to dine in Mauro’s immersive dark dining experience, the Heart to Heart Bistro—provided they complete its aspirin heart health risk assessment.
McDonald’s finds winning recipe in value meal deals as diners return
McDonald’s said discounted bundles and marketing promotions lifted U.S. traffic in the fourth quarter, driving higher sales and helping the company top Wall Street expectations.
This diner is the 'most iconic' in CT, according to Business Insider
A Southbury diner was named to Business Insider's list of "The Most Iconic Diner in Every State."
The most famous diner in every state
From classic 1950s diners to hole-in-the-wall burger joints, here are the most iconic diners in every state.
Business Beat : Iconic Coldwater diner goes up for sale
COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) - After 72 years of serving the downtown Coldwater, The Goodie Shop is officially on the ...
Tableside magician brings different kind of entertainment to Fratello’s
Magic took center stage in Hernando as Fratello’s Prime Steakhouse welcomed an internationally recognized magician to perform tableside for diners.
The Richmond diner that tracked Youngkin's political career
He publicly visited it at least seven times since launching his campaign in 2021.
Three takeaways from Racing Santander 0-2 Barcelona
Barcelona made it through to the quarterfinals of the Copa del Rey after securing a hard-fought 2-0 win over Racing Santander away at Estadio El Sardinero.Having had a slow start to the game, the Cata...
Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado visits Rochester diner to listen to talk with voters
Delgado is challenging Kathy Hochul in the Democratic primary for governor.
Fairfax County’s new meals tax starts in 2026. Here’s what diners, businesses should know
If you grab takeout, dine out, or run a food business in Fairfax County, you’ll see a change in 2026: a new meals tax is about to take effect.
Holiday crowds boost business across Berks County
From the Peanut Bar to the American Diner, restaurants and other businesses in Berks County look forward to serving customers through the holidays.
Popular Tybee Island eatery fails health inspection
A popular breakfast diner on Tybee Island scored a 57 in a routine Georgia Department of Public Health restaurant health inspection last week.
Many iconic, beloved North Jersey businesses closed in 2025. See list
2025 was tough for restaurants and brick-and-mortar retail, given inflation, sluggish rate cuts and President Donald Trump’s tariffs.
On 23rd Street, ethnic restaurants are losing a lot of business, as ICE fears keep diners home
On 23rd Street in Richmond, ethnic restaurants are losing a lot of business, as ICE fears keep diners home.
Cracker Barrel diners are sounding the alarm – here’s what reportedly has them furious
Cracker Barrel customers slam restaurant chain for poor food quality as company works to regain customer confidence in the wake of its failed rebrand.
Restaurant Norms May Be Making Us Miserable, Scientists Say
New research reveals that most diners feel uneasy eating before everyone at the table has been served, even though their companions typically wouldn’t mind if they did.
Fast casual finds a bright spot among business diners
The category experienced the strongest sales growth among these diners this year, driven in large part by catering
Beloved Southern restaurant chain closes all locations after 88 years
It's the latest American mom-and-pop restaurant chain to cave under the pressure of rising food costs and cost-cutting diners.