In the Neighborhood: The City Diner
Throwing pierogies on the stove, building a triple-decker sandwich, grabbing fries out of the oil and checking on a perfect looking burger all at once takes some serious multitasking. However, Edward Michalski, owner of The City Diner makes it look easy. It’s a testament to his 22 years in the hospitality business and his experience as an executive chef.
Two-and-a-half years ago Michalski drove by the vacant former Expressway Diner. He fell in love with the structure and knew the community really well since his wife and family members were from the Old Brooklyn area. He wanted to create “a place to sit down and have a meal and share some family time,” he says. “The concept could have gone anywhere, but it needed to be here because of the people.” Michalski’s favorite part of Old Brooklyn is the community and its culture.
As the owner of The City Diner, Michalski gets to experience two great parts of the job. On one hand, he gets to create memorable guest experiences. “Every time people come here, they either remember the old place or they’re blown away by the new place that it is now,” he says. Secondly, he’s a leader of a staff of over 20 people. He’s a firm advocate and leader of people.
What should you order?
The diner only opened three months ago, but business has already taken off. The menu consists of Americana classic cuisine. Michalski would recommend anything on the menu but listed a few of his personal favorites. You have to try the hand-cut 12 oz. ribeye, the short rib arugula burger with hollandaise sauce, the corned beef sizzler, and the Reuben. “I don’t think you can leave The City Diner without having a Reuben,” he says.
Michalski ends with a final thought: “Great food, great city.” 5109 Memphis Ave. Cleveland, OH 44144, (216)-400-7529