New Watertown Diner Offers a Friendly Place to Dine

Lisa McKeen, co-owner of The Diner at 11 North Beacon, was born to run a restaurant, quite literally. Coming from a long line of service industry experts, McKeen’s intrinsic talent has made her a success when it comes to knowing what people love to eat, and how people love to be treated.

“We took the restaurant over in early September,” McKeen said. “Previously, it was Talk of the Town and it was owned by my brother and his son, so the location has actually been in the family for about 13 years. My husband James and I made our changes gradually with a little cosmetic surgery inside and a new awning. The new menu came out about two months ago so that really made it official.”

And thus far, the new selection of fare is a hit. Of course The Diner has some traditional breakfast/brunch staples such as homemade pancakes, French toast and omelets. But the McKeens have also taken some brunch traditions, added extra culinary excitement with fresh ingredients and come up with great new dining options.

“We’re using some wonderful items like fresh basil and bacon and tomato in the BBT, which is an omelet that has really taken off," McKeen said. "We have an Italian omelet with caramelized peppers, onions, and Italian sausage. It’s also one of our best selling omelets.”

The general ambiance of the diner is warm, welcoming and friendly, which McKeen attributes to the fact that the business is truly a family affair.

“My brother works here, my nephew, my niece. My daughter comes to work with me in the morning before she goes to school and she has her breakfast," she said. "It’s a great atmosphere and that’s what I really want to get across. You can have an awesome food product – fresh and delicious – but some restaurants lack the customer service and I want to give my customers the best.  

"I want them to come to our diner, feel welcome and respected see that kind smile across the counter.”

Cozy deep red booths and stools provide seating, while the walls are decorated in rich brown, black and the occasional silver, giving The Diner a classy angle. A beautiful patio dining area behind the restaurant provides a perfect outdoor oasis for sunlit breakfasts. 

There are dining options made especially for children and prices are sensible and family-friendly. Perhaps one of the biggest signs that The Diner is doing well is that the restaurant has not only retained regulars, but has welcomed many new “old familiar faces” to table.

“We have the daily troupe that comes each morning,” McKeen said with a laugh.  “We figure out how to achieve world peace, we solve the national debt.  We’ve got the whole thing down by nine o’ clock. We could run the country blindfolded. If anyone wants to bring the president here, my customers could solve all his problems!”

The Diner at 11 North Beacon is located at 11 North Beacon St. in Watertown Square and is open seven days a week, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information visit www.the-diner.com.