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The Sage Diner, located at 1170 Route 73 in Mount Laurel, New Jersey
The Sage Diner, located at 1170 Route 73 in Mount Laurel, New Jersey
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The Sage Diner, located at 1170 Route 73 in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, has a relatively short but notable history as a classic American diner in the region.
Opening and Early Years (1988–1992)
The diner first opened its doors in 1988, establishing itself as a local landmark known for serving elevated diner fare, including all-day breakfast, homemade desserts, sandwiches, and specialties like baked meatloaf and Greek-inspired dishes. It was designed with a modern aesthetic for its time, featuring a stone facade and a welcoming atmosphere that catered to families and travelers near major highways like the New Jersey Turnpike.
Ownership by the Roustas Family (1992–2017)
In March 1992, the Roustas family—experienced restaurateurs who also owned the Jersey Diner in nearby Cinnaminson—purchased the Sage Diner. Under their management, it became a family-operated spot emphasizing quality food, with chef John Stylianos contributing to the menu. The diner was praised for its friendly service, extensive breakfast options (such as pumpkin Belgian waffles and the "Sage Slam" platter), and an in-house bakery famous for cookies, cheesecakes, and cakes. It operated 24 hours on weekends and late into the night on weekdays, serving as a go-to for locals and visitors alike. Reviews from the era highlight its value, with meals often under $20 including soup, entree, coffee, and dessert.
Closure and Vacancy (2017–2019)
The diner faced financial difficulties in the mid-2010s. In June 2017, owners Kostas "Gus" and Stella Roustas filed for bankruptcy protection, leading to the permanent closure of the 5,700-square-foot establishment. This was part of a broader trend of classic New Jersey diners shutting down due to economic pressures. The property remained vacant for nearly two years.
Sale and Redevelopment Plans (2019–2023)
In April 2019, the site was sold for $1.8 million to Giannakaris Enterprises. Initial rumors suggested a potential reopening as a diner, but by early 2023, plans shifted toward repurposing. In March 2023, the Mount Laurel Planning Board approved an application from NJ Green Care LLC (a Cherry Hill-based firm) to convert the building into a cannabis dispensary. The proposal included no exterior changes or parking lot alterations, but required a detailed 24-hour security plan. This fit into a local trend, with nearby shuttered diners like the Marlton Diner also eyed for similar cannabis retail conversions.
Recent Developments (2023–Today)
As of 2023–2024, the site lingered in limbo, appearing abandoned in photos and videos, with overgrown lots and faded signage. Construction finally began in spring 2025, with visible activity noted by locals in May and August. As of today (October 4, 2025), the former Sage Diner remains under renovation to become an NJ Green Care cannabis dispensary, though delays have pushed back the opening—the exact cause of the holdup is unclear, but work is ongoing.
The Sage Diner's story reflects the evolution of New Jersey's diner culture, from a beloved eatery to a symbol of changing times in the face of economic shifts and new industries like legal cannabis.
