Just arriving back into Manhattan after a week out in the sun on Long Island, I was shocked to read on my trusty comrade EV Grieve's weblog that Joe Jr's diner on the corner of 12th & 6th Avenue had closed its doors for good. I'm always a little stunned when neighborhood institutions vanish, but this one really took the wind out of my sails.
Despite its reputation for limited space and some long waits on the weekends, Joe Jrs held a very dear place in my family's heart. I still vividly remember stopping in there several late nights when Peggy was in St. Vincent's hospital (just down the street) pregnant with Oliver. We'd had to check her in several weeks early after she'd gone into premature labor (we called this episode "the hiccup") and it was a hugely stressful time. The comparatively homey and hearty fare from Joe Jr's was a welcome alternative to the repulsive hospital food. A few short years afterwards, Joe Jrs was always gracious and accommodating when we brought in our two little rambunctious children. I'm deeply saddened that it has gone away.
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