A view of the luncheonette in the back of Hometown HomeTown Pharmacy Warsaw. InkFreeNews photo by Dan Spalding.

WARSAW – The final burger and milkshake have been served at the longtime popular Luncheonette on Center Street in Warsaw.

Like all eat-in eateries, the Luncheonette at 1775 E. Center St. – formerly known as Zale Drugs – closed to sit-down customers on March 16 to adhere to a directive from Indiana’s governor in an attempt to slow the spread of coronavirus.

The store did not offer carry out during the current restrictions. A manager who asked not to be identified said the diner will not reopen.

The closing coincides with future renovation plans.

The diner featured a long counter with vintage stools. Popular items on the menu included omelets, tenderloin sandwiches, burgers and sundaes.

HomeTown Pharmacy Warsaw issued a statement Thursday, April 2, saying the luncheonette would close officially on Monday when renovations are expected to begin.

“Due to the recent unforeseen circumstances, HomeTown Pharmacy Warsaw formerly Zales Drugs, has made the difficult decision to permanently close our Luncheonette effective Monday April 6. We’d like to say ‘Thank You’ to all the Luncheonette customers for the many years of serving our community.

At this time, we have decided to expand the pharmacy services offered for our HomeTown Pharmacy Warsaw customers. The expanded services will include a new Hormone Replacement Therapy office, adding rooms to give more vaccinations and pharmacist counseling, widening the pharmacy area, installing a clean air compounding room and a new convenient drive-thru window service.” 

It was unclear when the kitchen opened, but employees recently found a sign dating back to 1974, the manager said.

A view of the lunch counter. InkFreeNews photo by Dan Spalding.

The seats still have a reflective gleam. InkFreeNews photo by Dan Spalding.