The Cycle Diner in Tarentum is seeking a new family to take over daily operations.
The restaurant was temporarily closed Tuesday but was expected to be back up and running Wednesday, according to general manager Tommy Scanga.
Scanga referred to a Sunday Facebook post when questioned about the potential change in management. He wrote in the post that he needs surgery for injuries he suffered in a car accident. The Gatto family owns the railroad-style diner along with a motorcycle dealer, Gatto Cycle Shop. The restored 1940s diner reopened in 2017 under Scanga’s direction.
“Our Family Will Be Leaving The Diner,” the Facebook post said. “We Have The Best Customers & Staff but due to me needing surgery from a car accident I will not be able to work for a few months. … But we are looking for a family to take over our dream of running the diner! I’m not going to lie it’s a lot of hard work but the smiles you put on people’s faces and the money you make is worth it! It is a turn key operation I will be glad to give you good advice.”
Scanga is less than halfway through a five-year lease with George Gatto, who bought the diner in 1990. Gatto said he would not penalize Scanga if he does not find a new management team.
“He told me he just can’t do it anymore,” Gatto told the Trib. “And I feel bad because it’s a good business, and he’s done a good job with it. He takes pride in that place.”
Gatto said he’d consider closing the diner if the right management team can’t be found.
“If we don’t get anyone in there good, we’ll close it,” he said.
The diner is beloved for its enormous portions, including homemade soups, burgers, and breakfast served all day.
Scanga told the Trib he didn’t want to elaborate beyond his Facebook post.
He wrote he’ll “miss all of the customers and that “hopefully we can find someone to take over.” He said he isn’t sure of the final date of his ownership. He replied to a Facebook comment that “it was a great ride.”
