Riverdale, NY
Riverdalians desperate for thick, spongy pancakes and sugary French toast flocked to Tibbett Diner for their grand re-opening early Tuesday, nine months after an electrical fire ravaged the beloved eatery.

Tibbett devotees started lining up outside before 6 a.m., anxious to check out the diner’s revamped digs and scarf down big plates of hot, cheap, delicious food.

For longtime customers and the diner’s owners, the day took on the feel of a family reunion: People hugged at the counter, cooks couldn’t stop smiling, and beaming servers talked with customers like they would loved ones.

“It’s like everybody lost their New York attitude when they walked in today,” said Stan Turken, 57, who polished off a plate of eggs and bacon in 10 minutes flat. “This is the best breakfast food in the Bronx, and it makes people happy. We were lost without Tibbett.”

Keith Watson, a Tibbett regular, was the first customer seated Tuesday: a distinction he achieved by waking up extra early and skipping his usual workout at the Bally’s across the street.

“I wanted to be the first to welcome them back and support them,” said Mr. Watson, who indulged in a plate of French toast with peppermint tea. “I was heartbroken when they had the fire.”

Debbie Rosenberg, a 52-yearold comedy writer and Tibbett enthusiast, wore a Tibbett Diner T-shirt she got during a birthday meal 10 years ago.

“Nothing tastes like the food in this diner,” said Ms. Rosenberg. “My challah French Toast was a little slice of heaven.”

For some, the diner’s re-opening offered a chance to reflect on subjects far more profound than breakfast.

“We like to come here and just think about the old days,” said Alexandra O’Rourke-Critsimilios, 14, who used to eat at Tibbett with her grandfather before he died. “This is where we had our best memories with him.”

Evan Levy, who’s been coming to Tibbett almost every day for more than 30 years, was welcomed like family when he showed up for breakfast Tuesday. The owners came out to hug him, and Mr. Levy arrived at the counter wearing a huge grin.

“It’s good to be home,” he said.

Originally published online here: http://riverdalepress.com/full.php?sid=10662¤t_edition=2009-11-26