In a bittersweet turn of events, the Malaga Diner, a South Jersey staple for the past 25 years, has closed its doors after a change in ownership. However, patrons need not despair as the beloved diner is slated to make a comeback under new management in April, sporting a fresh identity.
The Malaga Diner, situated on Harding Highway in Malaga, expressed its gratitude to loyal customers through a heartfelt message on its Facebook page. The diner acknowledged the years of support and well wishes, bidding farewell to its patrons while also promising exciting new beginnings.
While the New Jersey Department of Labor (NJDOL) had issued a “stop-work” order to the diner in recent years, the establishment clarified that the matter was resolved and did not influence the decision to sell. The nature and timing of the alleged worker exploitation were not disclosed by state officials.
In a message to Patch via Facebook messenger, the Malaga Diner emphasized that the decision to sell was primarily based on the attractiveness of the offer and a desire for new adventures after 25 years in business.
The temporary closure of the Malaga Diner comes amid a series of permanent closures for other South Jersey diners in recent months. The Red Lion Diner in Southampton bid farewell after 50 years of operation, and the Gateway Diner in Westville closed its doors due to the state’s use of eminent domain in a bridge-replacement project.
As the Malaga Diner takes a brief hiatus, anticipation is building for its reopening in April, promising patrons a familiar yet refreshed dining experience under its new ownership and name.
