PHILADELPHIA, PA – Today marks the beginning of the end for a beloved South Philadelphia staple, as demolition officially began on the iconic Melrose Diner. The demolition began this morning on Snyder Avenue as crews began tearing down the shiny stainless steel exterior and familiar coffee cup sign that has been a part of the neighborhood for decades.
What will replace it is a six-story mixed-use building with a first-floor lobby, sit-down restaurant, and residential floors. The development plans for this land have sparked some blowback from the surrounding community and former patrons. However, city officials say all necessary permits have been obtained, and construction will begin shortly.
The demolition of Melrose Diner is yet another example of how quickly times can change in Philadelphia—and how important it is to cherish our beloved institutions while we still have them.
