There’s a new diner coming to 1420 Breckinridge St. in the former JD’s Restaurant building. While many of the menu items will stay the same, owner Elizabeth Thompson is excited to bring unique offerings too, along with a new name — Lizzie’s Diner.
“I remember JD’s since the 1980s — a friend of mine’s dad owned it,” Thompson said. “Then they changed hands and when those people retired, someone else bought it. They re-did some of the interior to the restaurant and that’s where I came in and bought it.”
With new drywall, lighting, and paint, Thompson said there is a crisp, clean, new look inside. Lots of work has gone into trying to get the restaurant ready to open, with the grand opening set for the week of Jan. 4.
“My husband and I own the building,” she said. “I have a business partner, Brandon Newman, who worked with me at Great Harvest. I loved working there for five years, and when I saw this opportunity, I couldn’t pass it up.”
As far as the new name for her restaurant, Thompson attributes the decision to her nickname growing up.
“I am Elizabeth and I was called Lizzie, so I just went with it,” Thompson said.
Thompson believes her previous jobs prepared her for this new adventure, with experience in customer relations and getting to know people in the community. Before that, she says, she learned all she needed to know from her children.
“I have three kids who I homeschooled. I was a stay-at-home mom who waited on the kids and cleaned up after them and cooked for them,” Thompson said.
The business will include the entire family, with at least two of her children helping in the diner. Her son-in-law, who currently works in the restaurant industry, will serve as the grill cook. Her parents have pitched in by sewing curtains and helping to clean up in preparation to open.
“My husband is very excited, too,” Thompson said. “He has been hanging pictures, painting, putting chairs together. He will continue to work in his practice but he plans to be here a lot because he plans to eat here.”
In addition to serving a full breakfast menu all day, Thompson is excited to offer a combination of the traditional menu items customers grew to love, plus some new options.
“I have gotten a lot of JD’s old recipes such as the roast beef and salmon,” she said. “I am going to use those for sure, and add in some of my own. We plan to make burgers, sandwiches, plate lunches, and vegetables.”
Also joining Lizzie’s Diner will be a local baker who makes cakes, cookies, and desserts. Customers will be able to order an entire cake or a dozen cupcakes to go. Pies will also be available.
“I look forward to making plate lunches and being able to cook the main courses, but I am most excited about meeting new people,” Thompson said.
Lizzie’s Diner will be open daily from 6 a.m.-2 p.m. The diner plans to be open at 50% capacity depending on the guidelines at the time. They will offer a to-go option for all orders.
