By Jenine Clancy, Special Writer
EAST WINDSOR — Though Eric Masotes has worked in the restaurant business for 15 years, this is the first time everything falls all on him, for he is the general manager of the recently opened Town Diner in East Windsor.
”I have a staff of 32 employees, and they are all really great people,” said Mr. Masotes who has a shift meeting everyday to make sure everything is in place.
The new diner, which opened in early March, is located on Route 130 north, across from the recently renovated Windsor Center.
The diner’s location was occupied before, once as a steakhouse and once as another diner.
Mr. Masotes explained the camaraderie shared with his staff and owner Nicholas Kalyna is what will keep them there for a long time.
”We really are a family,” said Mr. Masotes who grew up with Mr. Kalyna’s son who owns the Red Oak Diner in Hazlet, New Jersey. “I think the customers see our family dynamic, and it provides a better experience.”
Mr. Kalyna is a 37-year resident of East Windsor, where he and his wife Luba raised their family.
Mr. Masotes is also an East Windsor resident and 1995 graduate of Hightstown High School.
Mr. Masotes, who has seen his hometown change from just a Blockbuster down the road to a slew of new restaurants and small businesses coming in, is happy to be serving the people of East Windsor.
”Mayor (Janice) Mironov has stopped in a few times, it’s been great,” he said.
The diner hosts early bird specials daily for the every-growing over 55 community and activities for kids.
”People love it,” said Mr. Masotes. “They keep saying ‘I am so glad you guys are here,’ they didn’t like when this place was empty.”
The diner uses the highest quality meats, according to Mr. Masotes. One of his favorite dishes is the Turkey Texas Grill sandwich, which has jalapaneos, horseradish, a cream sauce, fresh turkey and cheddar cheese.
”I work here seven days a week, and I eat here seven days a week," he said. "I make sure everything that leaves the kitchen is something I would eat.”
Mr. Masotes said one of their main goals is giving back to the community and he has already been in touch with the local community college about hiring students from their culinary program for the summer months.
”I like interaction with the guests and the community and teaching them how to be successful in this business,” he said.
Current hours of operation are Sunday through Thursday from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 6 a.m. to midnight. For more information, visit their website at www.towndinernj.com.

