Sparta Diner to mark one year anniversary

SPARTA — Dimitri Kontolios, one of the owners of the Sparta Classic Diner, is a happy man because he has had dinner guests every day for the past year.

Approaching the one year anniversary of the diner’s opening in mid July, Kontolios always enjoys hearing from his guests.

“I get a lot of positive feedback from the customers,” said Kontolios. “They like the atmosphere, they like the colors. It is inviting, it is comfortable.”

Kontolios, of Bergen County, has been in the diner business for years.

“I’m partners with my brothers, John and Steve,” said Kontolios.

They started with the Northvale Classic Diner 20 years ago and opened the Tenafly Classic Diner 11 years ago. The three brothers make the rounds, checking the three businesses. “We go all over the place.”

The menu is varied but Kontolios pointed out some popular selections.

“I see the people are very happy with our burgers — 10 ounce Angus beef,” said Kontolios.

Some selections are based on the weather.

“When it is very hot people tend to have salads or a sandwich,” noted Kontolios.

Many guests take advantage of the diner’s gluten free selections.

“We have gluten free pizza, gluten free pasta and some other dishes we created,” said Kontolios.

Kontolios was surprised the gluten free selections are more popular in Sparta than in Northvale and Tenafly. Also popular in Sparta are espresso and cappuccino.

“We do deliveries,” said Kontolios. “The deliveries are going very well. Some people do not want to drive. We go about a five mile radius.”

New this year is patio seating. Kontolios said it is very popular but the recent stretch of wet weather has made outdoor dining difficult.