Bendix Diner: A Sudden Goodbye and a Full-Circle Moment

If you’ve ever driven down Route 17 in Hasbrouck Heights, you’ve likely passed the Bendix Diner — a timeless New Jersey landmark, known for its neon glow and nostalgic charm. So when I heard the news that it had abruptly closed, it hit hard. Not just because another diner was closing, but because of my personal connection to the place and especially to John Diakakis, who worked there for years.

I’ve known John since 2019. John, who is blind, has been a fixture at the Bendix for years. In fact, he’s been a warm, welcoming presence that made the diner feel like everyone’s personal version of Cheers. If you were a regular, John was always there, greeting you like an old friend, no matter the time of day. Over the years, John became someone I could turn to for advice, whether I had questions about the diner world or challenges with my own diner restoration project. He’s become a great friend, and it’s hard to overstate how much he’s taught me about the importance of community and connection in these local gems.

I had the privilege of making a small appearance in the documentary Bendix: Site Unseen by Anthony Scalia, which beautifully captures John’s story and his love for the diner. At the time, I had no idea how deeply this project would connect me to the diner world, but looking back, it feels like the start of something much bigger.

Even after its closing, the Bendix Diner continues to capture the spotlight. Most recently, it’s been featured in Beyoncé’s Levi’s commercial and has popped up in a variety of other shows, commercials, and music videos, cementing its place in pop culture. The diner’s unique vibe and rich history have made it a beloved backdrop, continuing to draw attention long after its doors closed.

The Bendix Diner’s sudden closure is a reminder of how quickly these iconic places can disappear, but it’s also a reminder of how deeply they’re woven into the fabric of our lives. John’s legacy at the Bendix, the community it created, and the memories it left behind will live on, and it’s up to all of us to keep telling those stories.