Mr. G’s Diner to Close After Brief Reopening Amid Legal and Financial Challenges

PATERSON, NJ - The owners of Mr. G’s Diner have announced its closure, effective Sunday, September 29, at 5:00 p.m. Despite two years of hard work to revive the beloved community establishment, operational and financial obstacles have forced the decision to shut down, a statement said.

"We are incredibly grateful for the support we have received and are deeply saddened that we cannot continue serving the community in the way we had hoped," the Silk City Hospitality Group, LLC, the current owners said.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE FREE TAPINTO.NET NEWSLETTER

The closure follows litigation over the diner’s name, which presented significant challenges and ultimately prevented the vision for Mr. G’s Diner from becoming a reality.

Purchased in 2008 by civil rights activist Russell “G” Graddy, the diner became a community staple under his leadership. Graddy, a local legend for his tireless commitment to equality and community service, ran the diner until his death in 2021.

The diner reopened last month under the management of the McKoy family, who worked to preserve its historical significance while modernizing the space. Upgrades included a state-of-the-art kitchen, LED signage, and a new outdoor seating area. While the McKoys retained the original name and charm, they faced legal battles that made it impossible to continue operations.

Mayor Andre Sayegh highlighted the diner’s importance as a place where “meals and memories are made,” underscoring its role in the social and cultural life of Paterson at the ribbon cutting.

DOWNLOAD THE FREE TAPINTO APP FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS. AVAILABLE IN THE APPLE STORE AND THE GOOGLE PLAY STORE .

Looking ahead, Silk City Hospitality Group has not ruled out the possibility of reopening under a new name, though no further details have been confirmed. For now, the closure marks the end of an era for a diner that has been an integral part of the community for decades.

The McKoy family and the diner’s ownership team expressed their heartfelt thanks to the community for their unwavering support during this time.

For more local news, visit TAPinto.net