09/30/2026
I don't know this place but, being a person who loves old-fashioned diners myself and also being a person who has a breakfast place in a state far away, I wanted to share. This type of place is one where everyone always feels welcomed. I certainly hope the Columbia City Council realizes its importance .. that this place has a history of taking care of the community and what that means to their City. I hope a way is found to keep this anchor in their community, as it not only brings people together, but it also bonds them in a unique and special way. Dave, you sound like a great guy. Praying for your continued success and dedication to your community.
Good evening!
By popular demand, today’s destination was The Broadway Diner! The diner itself has undergone multiple name changes, relocations, and changes in ownership dating back to 1949. For expediency’s sake, I’ll fast-forward to 1989, when it was officially renamed The Broadway Diner and occupied the southwest corner of Providence and Broadway, where Walgreens presently stands. In 2001, the diner building was relocated to its current home at 22 South Fourth Street, where it continues to operate today. The current owner, David Johnson, took over ownership and operation of the establishment following the passing of his father, Ed Johnson, who purchased the diner in 1989. Prior to his father’s passing, Dave was already heavily involved in running the establishment.
Formerly a 24-hour operation, the diner adopted its present hours in 2019. A true diner in both appearance and function, this Columbia institution has a total seating capacity of just 32: six tables accommodating four patrons each and eight counter stools along the bar top. Small in stature, but certainly not in character! Today’s visit was strategically timed to avoid both the breakfast and lunch rushes. Clearly, I had every intention of indulging in breakfast, something I rarely do. And what better place to do so than a genuine, old-fashioned diner?
I opted for a three-egg omelet consisting of bacon, spinach, onions, peppers, tomatoes, cheese, and mushrooms. It was accompanied by fried hash brown potatoes and whole-wheat toast. An awesome portion and pure comfort food at its finest! Just what the doctor ordered for someone who doesn't make breakfast a regular part of his culinary routine!
“Management” opted for a sausage breakfast burrito, consisting of egg, sausage, cheese, and onion, all wrapped in a grilled tortilla. Sides of sour cream and salsa completed her meal. Juice was the beverage of choice for both of us this morning; orange for me and apple for the boss! Our service person, Marissa, was exceptional. Prompt, friendly, and efficient throughout our meal. Thank you, Marissa!
Now, while the food certainly more than satisfied our appetites, there is a much larger story to tell about The Broadway Diner.
The diner has been a Columbia institution for many, many years. Unfortunately, like the Katy Station, it finds itself on the chopping block due to redevelopment, which, in downtown Columbia, has increasingly become synonymous with high-rise student housing.
The diner itself has been designated a “Most Notable Historic Property” here in Columbia. Its owner would like to relocate the establishment, as was successfully accomplished in 2001, to another location downtown. However, doing so would require the City Council to grant an exception to the Unified Development Code, which requires buildings to be adjacent to the public right-of-way and at least two stories in height. The Broadway Diner is a single-story structure and cannot be modified to accommodate a second story.
Like me, if you would like to see this historical gem remain a part of our fair city and its downtown landscape, I encourage you to make your thoughts known to the City Council and stay informed about the discussions surrounding its future.
Our community's history is worth remembering, and the places that help tell its story deserve thoughtful consideration as Columbia continues to grow.
Tomorrow, a new location and a special announcement! Please tune in!
Buon Appetito!
