Demolition begins at iconic Melrose Diner in South Philadelphia

So long Melrose Diner, the demolition on the South Philadelphia institution started today to make way for a six-story apartment building. The work drew the attention of those passing by, documenting to say goodbye. This was a gem. This was a place for cakes, coffee, and camaraderie. And now it's gone. Residents stood on the sidewalk processing the rubble that once was the beloved Melrose Diner. The restaurant has been a fixture for generations of South Philadelphians. It sits on the triangle block of West Passayunk and Snyder Avenues and also 15th Street. Equipment began the demolition early this morning, triggering memories for those walking past. Demolition permits were in fact filed in 2022, around the same time of the kitchen fire that shuttered the diner. Plans are now in the works to build apartments above a new ground floor of the Melrose Diner. Some apartments, it's crazy that they really did this. Had the best fries in the South Philly area. I'm upset about it. It's sad to see. It didn't need to happen. But it did. It's really happening. We're told the work could take at least 18 months to two years. No word on when that projected opening date would happen, but obviously people trying to process this painful site that's happening in South Philadelphia.