Bonnie Amspacher, owner of The Diner, has continued a Norman legacy of a restaurant that not only serves homestyle food, but feels like home.
The Diner, located on Main Street, has been a favorite among Norman locals since Amspacher’s father, Mark, opened it in 1989. The building itself has been a staple in the community for over 100 years, housing several different restaurants, yet maintaining the same tightknit atmosphere.
Amspacher believes the longtime success of The Diner is due to returning customers, the sense of community and the staff.
“It gives people a sense of connection and belonging,” Amspacher said. “I think those two things make us present here in the community.”
Amspacher also said as downtown Norman has become more vibrant, business has grown. The area is always bustling, which is a recipe for success when coupled with The Diner’s recognition, despite more competition.
Amspacher and The Diner faced some struggles during the COVID-19 pandemic, and it ended up closing for six months.
It later opened back up at half capacity, which was difficult for such a small space.
Despite those roadblocks, The Diner recovered and continues to serve the community, and create a good work environment for employees.
Miriam Izaguirre has worked at the restaurant for over a year. She said the work environment at The Diner has good energy, teamwork and a caring boss.
“Coming from jobs that didn't have that and now coming into (a) locally owned (business), you can really feel the difference,” Izaguirre said. “Bonnie really cares about everybody and we get to know her on a different level.”
Izaguirre also said that aside from her coworkers, the customers make working at The Diner a special experience.
The Diner is family-owned and operated. The restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch every day.
In 2009, The Diner was featured on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” a popular television show on Food Network that features Guy Fieri. Though the show has brought in many guests over the years, what really keeps the Diner going is their regulars.
Many of the regular customers have been eating at The Diner since before Amspacher was around, and they keep coming for the classics and nostalgia. Things like her father’s chili recipe have remained the same since the 1980s.
The Diner strives to uphold their tradition of good food and unity of Norman locals, according to Amspacher. She feels satisfied with her work when connecting with customers or observing the bonds they form.
“I really like it when people are having a good time. When they come in and they're happy and enjoy their food, and they enjoy talking to the staff or other customers and when they leave, their day is better,” Amspacher said. “It makes me feel good about what I'm spending my effort and time on.”
The Diner, located at 213 E. Main St., is open from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
This story was edited by Emma Blakley and Karoline Leonard. Grace Rhodes, Mary Ann Livingood and Nikkie Aisha copy edited this story.
