It seemed like the end of the road for Anita’s Grill when the old school diner finally closed in 2024 after nearly 70 years. But now a new Anita’s is preparing to open in a different location, this time downtown, in a building with its own vintage character.
This rendition of Anita’s Grill will be in the ground floor of the Howard, the flat iron-shaped building at 833 Howard Ave. It’s slated to open around the middle of May, pending permitting.
It will be operated by Sean McCormick. His father Arnold McCormick was a partner in Anita’s Grill for decades. Now 89, the senior McCormick is on board to advise while his son takes the helm.
The aim is to bring back the feel of the old diner, and serve the same role. It will also serve many of the same dishes, like liver and eggs, pork chops and grits, red beans and fried chicken.
“People like that greasy spoon, that home-cooked meal, and that’s what we’re sticking with,” said McCormick.
A new start
Some employees from the old restaurant will be back and McCormick said he is trying to hire more staff for the new restaurant…