Lake Varsity Diner celebrates 20 years of “happy days” in Uniontown

Lake Varsity Diner, 13367 Cleveland Ave. NW, will celebrate its 20th year in business with an open house-style gathering during regular business hours, noon to 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 11.

The diner invites the community to stop by for food, takeout or simply to say hello, as owners Joe and Colleen Beasley thank customers for two decades of support. Treat bags will be included with each order, and every purchase earns an entry into prize drawings. Current and former staff members will also be on hand as part of the celebration.

The theme of the day will be “America and Freedom,” with red, white and blue décor. The featured item will be the Chef’s Choice of the Day Burger, called the American Dream Burger. It features a half-pound Angus beef patty on a brioche bun with mixed greens, melted Gouda cheese, crispy bacon and homemade red onion jam, served with garlic butter parmesan fries.

Lake Varsity Diner, described as part 1950s-style restaurant and part sports bar, has long embraced its ties to Lake Local Schools. Diners may even find their own or their children’s photos displayed on the Lake Wall of Fame or embedded into tabletops. “Inspired by the Community for the Community” is one of its mottos, along with “Come for the atmosphere and the food” and “Experience happy days in Uniontown, Ohio.”

The Beasleys’ daughter, Angela Suarez, continues to help run the diner so her parents can head home in the evenings. Many family members have pitched in at the restaurant over the years.

The diner’s extensive and whimsical menu includes “Lake Shake” flavors of the month, Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weenie Sundaes, a “Rookies” menu for children 12 and under, and monthly sandwich, dinner and side specials. Known as the “home of the endless fries,” Lake Varsity Diner cuts fries fresh daily from Idaho potatoes and happily refills them hot for guests. Pulled pork, sloppy Joe, coleslaw and condiments are available by the pint. Desserts include new fruit “Cutie” pies rolled in cinnamon sugar and served with ice cream.

Classic music and vintage television shows like Leave It to Beaver add to the nostalgic atmosphere.

Normal hours are 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and noon to 7:30 p.m. Saturday. The diner is closed Sunday and Monday. More information, including menus and newsletter sign-ups, is available at www.lakevarsitydiner.com. The phone number is 330-699-3463.