We were recently informed that the space occupied by Westside Restaurant, located at 2020 Broadway on the corner of 69th Street, is now on the market for lease. Thanks to our anonymous tipster ‘Upper West Sider.’
The listing description indicates that the “former tenant” is “West Side Diner,” and that the landlord is seeking a new tenant for “immediate possession.”
We spoke to the owner of Westside Restaurant, Gus, who told us he has no plans of closing, and that if and when the economy returns to normal, business will be good again. At the maximum capacity of 25%, that limits them to 17 customers, which will not be enough for the long run.
We’ve also reached out to the landlord and the listing brokers.
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Utopia Restaurant’s landlord recently listed its space, though Utopia’s owner told us they will not be closing. The same landlord also listed the space which is occupied by Paper House (again), but Paper House’s owner told us he’s staying open “for as long as he can.”
The current lack of clarity over whether businesses will stay open or not is unprecedented due to the pandemic, and the difficulty so many business owners have had paying their rent since it began in March.
Let’s hope Westside Restaurant does not close like fellow long-time eateries Old John’s Luncheonette and Santa Fe.
Westside Restaurant first opened in 1965, and has been an icon of the neighborhood for a long time. It was featured in the closing scene of Little Manhattan, a romantic comedy made in 2005. The old school diner’s menu features a large variety of eggs and omelettes, griddle specialties, salads, sandwiches, paninis, burgers, Greek specialties like gyros and souvlaki, dinner entrees including pasta, meat and seafood plates, and much more.
Westside Restaurant
2020 Broadway (corner of West 69th Street)
westsiderestaurant.business.site
If I recall correctly, Lady Gaga waitressed there when she was in high school.
Please support them! Key neighborhood spot.
I hope they can hang on. It’s a much loved institution in the neighborhood. And Minnie is a gem! I know I’m only one of thousands if patrons who can fondly say they’ve had dozens (or more!) happy times there.