Philadelphia Diner Seeks New Ownership After Decades

A historic Ridge Avenue eatery, first established in 1939, is currently on the market for a new owner.

Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Openings & Closings

Philadelphia Diner Seeks New Ownership After Decades

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Should owners of long-standing local businesses require buyers to maintain the original business model?

Bob’s Diner at 6053 Ridge Avenue, a staple that moved to its current location in 1942, is currently listed for sale by owner Jim Evans. The iconic structure, manufactured by the Jerry O'Mahony Diner Company, has operated in the city for over eight decades.

Why it matters

The sale represents a pivotal moment for the historic Roxborough business, as the current owner requires any prospective buyer to continue operating the site as a restaurant. Its potential transition could impact one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

The diner occupies a 0.25-acre plot and features a structure that is now 87 years old. The business maintains daily operating hours from 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

The players

Jim Evans

He is the proprietor who has owned and operated the diner for the past 33 years.

Jerry O'Mahony Diner Company

This manufacturer produced the iconic dining car structure that has stood for 87 years.

Leverington Cemetery

Founded in 1745, this 9-acre graveyard property sits directly adjacent to the diner.

The details

The dining car was originally established as the 20th Century Diner on Filbert Street before being transported from Center City to its current site next to the 9-acre Leverington Cemetery. The location has historical significance, appearing in the 1988 film Stealing Home, while the adjacent cemetery was featured in the television show Cold Case.

1745: Leverington Cemetery was founded.
1939: The diner originally opened on Filbert Street.
1942: The dining car moved to its current location on Ridge Avenue.
1993: Jim Evans purchased the diner.
2024: Jim Evans put the diner up for sale.

Market Landscape

The potential sale of Bob's Diner follows its recent recognition on The 76 most vital Philly restaurants list. This highlights a trend where classic, long-standing local institutions face ownership transitions while striving to maintain their unique historic character.

Current patrons can expect the diner to maintain its standard operating hours of 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. during the transition period. Because the sale requires the buyer to keep the site as a restaurant, the neighborhood staple is expected to remain a local dining option.

The takeaway

The search for a new owner ensures that the historic dining car remains a functional part of the Roxborough community. Potential investors must be prepared to honor the legacy of this 87-year-old structure while managing the upkeep of its prominent Ridge Avenue location.