Restaurant ownership is in the family blood, and the quest for the best made tuna melt continues. Hristos Shizas is owner of Empire Diner (1315 Route 46 East, Parsippany, 973-352-2729). His daughter, Frances Shizas Vagias, is the charming head and shoulders at another Shizas eatery, the beautiful Waterside Restaurant & Catering (7800 B River Road, North Bergen, 201-861-7767, www.watersiderestaurantandcatering.com). The latter spot affords you views of the New York skyline as you dine, and I in the past have called the second floor event room "Romance" for it encompasses all beauty. The praises of Empire Diner had been sung a few times by friends and former coworkers, so when we needed a place to briefly chow down, it came immediately to mind. Robin, an Empire Diner veteran, was our server during our Tuesday evening visit, and she made the rounds of the tables, knowing many of the customers who return as regulars. It's not hard to find time to revisit good food and friendliness. I ordered a tuna melt on wheat bread minus tomato ($10.95) - my decision. I never include the tomato on this sandwich option: it will rob for the true taste of the cheese and tuna combination. Lucille also ordered a cup of warm lobster bisque soup ($2.95) on the cold evening, she always seeking hot soup after escaping the chilly air. This particular offering satisfied her want and need.
A special thanks to Abigail, a night time manager at Fairfield, New Jersey located McDonald's (460 Route 46 East, 973-882-1251). Lucille and I stopped in for some decaf coffee, and we learned that the coffee machine was broken. However, when I asked if decaf tea was available, Abigail did her darndest to find some inside the location and did so, preparing it piping hot for us.
Most of all, it's the kindness which she displayed that was the best thing of all. Steve
2 Comments
Robin
2/20/2019 09:43:06 am
Ot was my pleasure to serve you and hope to see you both back again in the near future
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2/20/2019 09:50:27 am
Robin --
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January 2023
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