NEW YORK - Timelessness and dedication to traditional values - these are the elements that characterize the journey of Circle M Diner in Wantagh, NY, one of the most iconic Greek-American-owned diners on Long Island, which this year celebrates 50 years of continuous operation under the direction of the same people who founded it.
"It was May 1, 1975," recalls 79-year-old Nick Tsotsos with emotion, speaking to Newsday about the day he and his brother John first opened the doors of the establishment on Wantagh Avenue. Tsotsos, a resident of Merrick, NY had arrived in the United States in 1968. The two brothers initially worked for seven years in the restaurant of their older brother George in Baldwin, NY until they decided to take the step to open their own.
Five decades later, Circle M continues to operate with the same two owners - an unusual feat in the American dining scene, especially in an era when many traditional diners have been forced to close, particularly after the pandemic and the skyrocketing of operating costs.
The 50th anniversary was celebrated in a special way: a festive menu offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the symbolic price of just $5 - a gesture of gratitude to the local community that has stood by them all these years.
The building's owner, Anthony Paolano, emphasizes that this is a remarkable achievement - not just that Circle M has been operating for 50 years, but that it's still being run by the same two people since day one.
At 1132 Wantagh Ave., visitors see Nick or John every day - from 7 AM to 9 PM. Stability is a hallmark of the establishment: the open kitchen, the familiar environment, and the consistent team of workers create a family-like atmosphere that is rare.
Waitress Denise Rosenthal describes the 110-seat space as "warm and welcoming," while the menu has remained constant over the years: traditional American breakfasts, burgers, sandwiches, soups, and fish or meat dishes. The most popular item of all is the Mykonos salad - with grilled chicken breast, feta, pita, and the diner's famous dressing, which has developed a devoted following.
"Quality is key," notes John Tsotsos. "We always choose the best ingredients. That's why people trust us."
Despite changing consumer habits, Circle M has refused to join online delivery platforms. It offers no home delivery - only dine-in or takeout, just like the old days.
The restaurant staff has also remained stable for decades. Chef Rene Hernandez has worked at the diner for over 30 years, while Lynn Babchak has been with the family for the past 16. "We are all family here," she says pointedly.
Rosenthal shares stories that show the passage of time: One customer who used to come as a child with her parents now brings her own kids. And Nick and John always give them an ice cream to take home. She said it's very touching.
The brothers' wives, Kelly and Kathy, are actively involved in the running of the business and handle the decorations for each festive season.
John Tsotsos envisions one day passing the reins to someone who will respect the Circle M's tradition and values. He was emotional when explaining that he has seen kids grow up, go off to college, and come back with families of their own - he says that is priceless. Then he thanked their employees - and above all, their customers, emphasizing that without them, Circle M wouldn't exist.