In South Berkeley, a tiny family restaurant is tucked into a side street. If you blink, you might miss it, but long time customers of “The Dining Room” know its location like the back of their hand.

This small hometown diner has been a staple for over 30 years. This year, that era has come to an end. Ms. Beverley, the owner, has decided to close the doors and enjoy her retirement at 83 years old. A new restaurant has taken its place though, “The Inwood Diner.” Rumor has it here in South Berkeley, that this new diner is owned by the same people who own the “Spring Mills Diner,” another local restaurant.

The new diner has a neutral and modernized look: Black tables and chairs, beige walls, black lantern centerpieces. The two french doors when you walk in have been taken out which give the place an open concept design. As a result of these changes, the building seems much bigger on the inside.

The restaurant is brighter and has a welcoming energy. The outside has had a bit a makeover as well. A wall of bamboo was torn down and property was bought to make more much needed parking space, two new signs have been put up-one where the original sign was and one on the side of the building so passerbyers can get a glimpse, and parking blocks have been added.

Although the diner is still small, the new staff has been advertising on social media. The Inwood Diner opened on October 14, 2024. Their hours are 7 am- 3 pm as they are still getting to know their clientele. If you have time, stop by and try it out!