Former Little Chef on A64 transformed into American-themed diner (From York Press)

Former Little Chef on A64 transformed into American-themed diner

11:43am Wednesday 16th May 2012 in Ryedale news By Karen Darley

A MALTON woman who was training to become a photographer has gone back to her catering roots by opening an American-themed diner.

Sarah Thompson transformed the former Little Chef on the A64 near Flaxton into Uncle Joe’s Diner in just three weeks after seeing the property was on the market.

“I was having a really bad day when I pulled into the garage opposite for petrol,” she said.

“I looked across and saw the building was boarded up and couldn’t understand why such a prime site hadn’t been snapped up.”

Sarah enquired about the property and was told she had two days to put in a bid.

“I was over the moon when I found out I’d got it and managed to rope in local joiner Kevin Bardon, from Swinton, who dropped everything to transform the place from a run-down shell to an American diner,” she added.

“This is something I have always wanted to do and there is nothing else like it in the area.”

Sarah, who has been in catering since she was 18, formerly running Thompson’s Fish and Chips, said she had aimed to keep the diner as authentic as possible and create a fun and friendly atmosphere.

“It’s a great place for families as well as the older generation as we play music from the 50s as well as country music all day,” she said.

“As we are by the side of the road we are geared up for passing trade but we already have local customers.”

Sarah, who has employed 10 people at the venue, said they also offered a takeaway service and feedback had been very positive.

She saod: “The diner is something new and different for the area. It is very exciting and I am thoroughly enjoying being back in the business.”