Mr. G’s Diner Set to Shine Again in Paterson


The Garden State is about to welcome back a cherished piece of its diner legacy. The revival of Mr. G’s Diner in Paterson, a classic stainless-steel, prefabricated diner built in New Jersey, marks a triumphant return for entrepreneurs Vaughn and Marnie McKoy and an exciting venture for local businessman Yaakoub Hijazi.

A Storied Past

Crafted in 1940 by the Paramount Dining Car Company in nearby Haledon, Mr. G’s Diner began as Pickering’s Grill, sporting the iconic rounded glass brick corners of Paramount’s design. In 1954, it became Marty and Phil’s Diner under new ownership by the Gold brothers. Over the decades, it saw multiple transformations, operating as the 10th Avenue Diner, the Egg Plate (distinct from the Egg Platter Diner), and the Pancake and Smokehouse Grill.

In 2008, civil rights activist Russell “G” Graddy (1931–2021) purchased the diner, renaming it Mr. G’s. A Paterson icon, Graddy, originally from Wrightsville, GA, played a key role in organizing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s visit to Paterson in March 1968, shortly before King’s assassination. In 2019, Paterson honored Graddy’s legacy by naming a stretch of 10th Avenue “Mr. Russell G. Graddy Way.” He passed away in November 2021 at age 90.

Paterson’s Diner Legacy

Paterson, once a bustling industrial hub, supported a vibrant diner scene during its golden era. However, economic decline led to the closure of many establishments, including Nicholas Diner in August 2023, which had been the city’s last remaining diner, and the Egg Platter Diner in 2017. The reopening of Mr. G’s will restore a diner to Paterson’s landscape, reviving an 80-year-old landmark.

The Revival

Yaakoub Hijazi, owner of Star Laundry near the diner, acquired Mr. G’s with a vision to preserve Paterson’s heritage. Though new to the diner business, Hijazi’s passion for food stems from his father’s legacy of running over 20 restaurants and delis in New York City. Introduced by Michael Powell, Paterson’s former economic development director, Hijazi partnered with Vaughn and Marnie McKoy. Together, they’ve invested millions to restore the diner, with construction starting in September 2023 and a planned grand opening by March 2024.

The diner is undergoing a full transformation. A new roof, modern kitchen appliances, and LED-lit signs are being installed. The original booths will be reupholstered, and a counter with 18 round stools will anchor the interior. An outdoor patio with a barbecue pit will offer additional seating. The team is collaborating with a chef to craft a menu that honors the diner’s roots while appealing to modern tastes.

A Community Hub

The McKoys and Hijazi aim to create a warm, welcoming space with the tagline “Where friends meet.” Vaughn, who grew up just half a block from the diner, sees it as a chance to continue its legacy. “This is our generation’s turn to carry the torch,” he said. Marnie emphasized creating a place for shared memories, rooted in their deep connection to Paterson.

The McKoys’ Paterson Roots

Vaughn and Marnie McKoy bring both personal and professional expertise to the project. They operate national restaurant franchises at major airports and will manage the food court at Paterson’s historic Hinchliffe Stadium, home to the NJ Jackals baseball team. Vaughn, a Paterson native, grew up near the diner, attended local schools, and graduated from Rutgers University and Rutgers Law School, later earning an MBA from NYU. Marnie, originally from Baltimore, also graduated from Rutgers, where she met Vaughn. She holds a doctorate from Seton Hall University and served as CEO of the Community Charter School of Paterson.

Stay Connected to the NEW Mr. G's

Follow Mr. G’s Diner on Instagram for updates on renovations and the grand opening. This revival promises to restore a piece of Paterson’s soul, blending history, community, and good food.

Special thanks to the Paterson Museum and diner historian Richard J.S. Gutman for historical insights.


Here are some tribute products to the original Mr. Gs!


"Sandwich for Mr. Frankie?  Extra Pepper!" (Frank Nigro was my father and owned Enblack Fabricators (or Inblack, after the little IRS incident) right down the street.  Summer's working there involved the following strict routine:

1.  Mr. G's for breakfast sangwiches
2.  Libby's Lunch for Texas Weiners.  Do not drink beer during lunch at Libby's! (you know who you are!)


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