Dinner is served – and so are breakfast and lunch, whenever you want them.

Metro Diner in Aiken held its soft opening Saturday, giving Aiken a taste of what’s to come at the new restaurant.

A steady stream of customers flowed into the restaurant to get a bite and support the community at the same time.

“We serve classic diner cuisine. It’s kind of a throwback to the ’50s and ’60s where the community was what made the diner, the food was fantastic, you know, and where everybody could unite, come together and sit and enjoy each others company as well as the food,” Coker said.

The diner serves breakfast, lunch and dinner all day from 7 a.m. until 9 p.m. The official grand opening is Tuesday.

Coker said Saturday was the first soft opening. A second soft opening will be held Sunday, with each day supporting a different charity. Saturday supported South Aiken High School’s booster club.

Sam Fuller, principal at South Aiken, was trying the restaurant out for himself Saturday morning. It was Fuller’s first time at the restaurant, which is the first in South Carolina, but has locations in 13 other states.

“I’m really excited about the opportunity they’re bringing to South Aiken and also the Aiken community. I think this a great location and we’re really glad to have them,” Fuller said.

Fuller hadn’t eaten yet, but planned to try the crab cake Benedict.

Rosalind Crenshaw and her family ate breakfast Saturday, and said everything was delicious. Rosalind tried the western omelet.

“I think this is going to be a great asset for the Southside,” Crenshaw said about the restaurant, adding it has a different atmosphere from other restaurants in the area.

“I like it, I think it’s a good location,” she said.

Coker said Metro Diner is a people oriented place. “Hospitality is No. 1, very welcoming to everybody that comes in, it’s just like you’re inviting them into your own home with just some great conversation, a nice cup of coffee – a hot cup of coffee – and hot food as well,” he said.

Sunday’s soft opening benefits Helping Hands in Aiken.

Coker said Helping Hands is a great charity and it was “incredibly heartwarming” when he visited.

“You wanted to smile about all the good work they were doing, and shed a tear because of the unfortunate kids, but it’s a great opportunity to help out,” he said.

 

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