Metro Diner set to open in former Steak ’n Shake location

After the Steak ’n Shake in Inverness Plaza closed last year, it did not take long for another restaurant to scoop up the space. Metro Diner, a Jacksonville, Florida-based chain with about 36 restaurants open or in the works, plans to open in late summer.

Metro Diner will hire about 100 people for its Birmingham location, said Carly Sanders, a senior account executive who works with the restaurant. This will be the restaurant’s second Alabama location; the first location opened in Tuscaloosa in April.

“Living in Birmingham for over 10 years and working in the restaurant business, I know the area very well,” said Travis Grappo, joint venture partner for Metro Diner. “Our commitment to quality and fast execution will be a hit in the Valleydale/280 area, which is beginning to grow with lots of great businesses. We are very excited to bring this wonderful concept to the Birmingham market.”

The menu includes classics such as shrimp and grits or fried chicken and waffles, as well as unique items such as “Yo Hala on the Square,” which includes challah bread prepared like French toast. Metro Diner serves all-day breakfast, as well as lunch and dinner. 

There will be 130 seats in the 3,600-square-foot restaurant, as well as seven counter seats and seven patio tables. The patio will have an awning with pull-down shades, Sanders said.

Metro Diner will be at 180 Inverness Plaza. For more information, go to metrodiner.com. It will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday through Thursday; and from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday.