Randy’s Diner Serves Comfort Food for Almost Two Decades

April 12, 2015

Randy and Norma Vyverberg met working in the kitchen at Grand Traverse Resort.

Together, they moved to J&S Hamburg, then Randy moved on to Manistee Lake Resort.

"I always liked it [the restaurant industry]," says Randy. "But I always wanted to be my own boss."

18 years ago, that finally happened when the couple bought the diner on Carver Street near Pine Hill Nursery. What had previously been the Pigs Tie Diner and Marty’s Diner became Randy’s Diner.

THE SCENE

Over the years, the Vyverbergs have cultivated a loyal customer base. They often see people for breakfast who return later in the day for lunch or dinner.

Norma credits the staff for the diner’s long-term success.

"The employees have a big part in making it appealing," she says.

Randy’s is a true family operation. In addition to the husband and wife team, daughter Rebecca and Norma’s sister and sisterin-law also work in the business. Sons and numerous other family members have also been part of the operation over the years.

THE MENU

Breakfast hits all the usual sweet spots, with pancakes, waffles and cinnamon rolls. Those that prefer savory treats have a choice of omelets and skillets, with typical morning meats, as well as Canadian bacon.

Lunchtime staples like burgers, sandwiches and wraps come in a variety of combinations like the jalapeno popper burger; the BLT egg burger; a grilled veggie pita with sauerkraut, cheddar cheese and olives; and a gyro with seasoned meat, feta and red onion, with cucumber feta sauce.

Soups, salads, subs and sides round out the luncheon offerings. Open until 9pm, the menu also includes a number of dinner features: battered walleye and cod, chicken strips, pork chops, hot roast beef, steak, and liver and onions among them.

THE BEST

Asked to pick their favorites, the Vyverbergs offer a nod to their fish.

"What’s really popular is the cod," says Randy. "We have it every day, but it’s most popular on Fridays."

Norma says the soups are a favorite and Randy agrees.

"The steak noodle mushroom soup is like stroganoff in a bowl," he says.

He also likes the breakfast items, which he points out are available all day. "There are so many good things on the breakfast menu. Any breakfast that includes bacon is good," he says. "I like to order the vegetable omelet with bacon."

THE REST OF THE STORY

The Vyverbergs’ goal is to serve something that pleases everyone who crosses their doorway. That’s actually how liver and onions became a regular menu item. When customers requested it, Norma’s sister ran to the grocery store to pick up liver. Eventually, Randy and Norma decided to just put it on the menu, making it one of the few places in Traverse City that serves it.

Randy’s also hosts an annual car show the Tuesday after the National Cherry Festival. Participation has grown every year and all exhibitors receive a gift certificate to Randy’s Diner.

THE SKINNY

Breakfasts start at $2.39. Burgers start at $4.99, baskets with Famous Fries at $6.49. Sandwiches start at $3.99, subs at $6.99, salads at $7.99. Dinner specials start at $7.99.

Randy’s is open from 6am to 9pm Monday through Saturday and is closed Sunday. It’s located at 1120 Carver St. For more information, call (231) 946-0789 or visit RandysDiner.com or its Facebook page.