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The Metro Diner
has been a fixture and neighborhood hotspot on Hendricks Avenue for 10
years. Recently, father-and-son duo, John and Mark Davoli, acquired
the diner to fulfill a long-time dream of working together. John was
the former vice president of the Cracker Barrel restaurant chain, and Mark
is a chef by trade and previously ran the dining service at the Bolles
School.
"I have had hands-on experience in the
restaurant business since I was approximately 12 years old, and by father
has been my mentor in the industry," Mark said.
The experience, interest, and determination of
the Davoli family, which also enlists the help of Mark's mother, sister
and wife, should prove to bring even greater accomplishments to an already
fantastic San Marco tradition.
Structural maintenance improvements are being
completed to the more than 40-year-old building that houses the Metro
diner. Added seating, a peaceful retreat found in the new outdoor
dining area, and an upgraded, enthusiastic staff have been put in place to
better serve customers. The Metro Diner also plans to extend its
business hours to start serving dinner by the end of April.
"Although we are making improvements to the
diner, the menu will remain the same, with a few additional items, and the
original integrity of the diner that the customers have come to know will
be kept in tact," Mark said.
Also, accessibility to the restaurant has been
made easier through the implementation of the Metro Diner Web site, which
lists regular and catering menus and daily blackboard specials.
Having decided to eat at Metro Diner, you are well on your way to a culinary journey that is sure to excite your taste
buds. Breakfast takes on a whole new meaning when delightful dishes
such as crab cakes Benedict, banana and granola pancakes and breakfast pie
are served. If that doesn't jump start your engine maybe a fresh,
hot bagel with lox and a tall glass of freshly squeezed orange juice will
do the trick.
After enjoying a delectable breakfast, you will
definitely be tempted to go back for lunch. The eclectic lunch menu
offers something for everyone, including a roasted veggie baguette, hot
mushroom sandwich, meatloaf, chicken pot pie and a variety of salads,
soups, and side dishes that are made on site using the freshest products
available. for those who are diet conscious, fresh salmon, grouper
and mahi mahi can be prepared any way you like and are frequently featured
on the daily blackboard special. many dietary options, such as
vegetarian, are also available and can be accommodated.
The Metro Diner is recognized by many locals as
one of the best places in Jacksonville to eat. Its distinctive menu,
loyalty to customer satisfaction, friendly atmosphere and consistently
excellent food, validate this recognition.
Metro Diner is located at 3302 Hendricks Ave.,
south of the San Marco square, and is open from 7:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
daily. For more information, call 398-3701 or check out the
restaurant's Web site at www.metrodinerjax. com.
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