Toronto quietly loses landmark Bus Terminal Diner

The Bus Terminal Diner quietly shut down earlier this year and its former home at 1606 Danforth Ave., went up for lease in late April. There's been almost no press about the closure and little is known how one of Toronto's oldest restaurants suddenly fell on hard times.

With its 1950s-style facade and retro interior, this throwback spot had been a neighbourhood staple for about 68 years - not bad for a spot slinging out simple, but filling eggy breakfasts, burgers and fries.

But what replaces it is unlikely to hone in on its throwback vibes. The 2,100 square foot space is zoned for commercial and retail use. But Michael Saperia, vice president of the The Behar Group Realty Inc. says the current owner isn't looking to lease this storied gem to an old-school restauranteur - instead, they're open to anything.

"Ideally, we would like to get a name brand or a national, somebody who's got some strength behind them," Saperia tells me. Though they'd also be okay working with an independent business owner.

It's worth noting that the nearby Allenby Theatre (or the Roxy) at 1213 Danforth Ave., is now a Tim Hortons and Esso station so there's precedent in this neighbourhood for turning iconic buildings into fast food chains. We'll just have to wait and see what the future holds for this iconic landmark east of Greektown.