Owner of 50-Year-Old Dairy Bar Restaurant in North Carolina Ready to Sell

But the iconic eatery will remain open as the search for a new owner continues.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Bill DeJarnette, the owner of The Dairy Bar restaurant in Marion, North Carolina, is ready to sell the 50-year-old establishment that has been in his family for nearly five decades. However, DeJarnette says the restaurant will remain open as he searches for the right buyer to take over the beloved local eatery.

Why it matters

The Dairy Bar has been a fixture in the Marion community for half a century, serving up classic diner fare and homemade specialties. Its potential sale highlights the challenges small, independent restaurants face in an evolving industry, as well as the importance of preserving local food traditions and community gathering places.

The details

DeJarnette has worked at The Dairy Bar for about 48 years, taking over the restaurant his family started in 1975. He says he loves the food and cooking, and enjoys hearing customers "brag" about the dishes he prepares. The Dairy Bar celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2025.

  • The Dairy Bar opened in the summer of 1975.
  • The restaurant celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2025.

The players

Bill DeJarnette

The owner of The Dairy Bar restaurant in Marion, North Carolina, who has worked at the establishment for nearly 50 years after taking it over from his family.

The Dairy Bar

A 50-year-old restaurant in Marion, North Carolina that has been a fixture in the local community, serving classic diner fare and homemade specialties.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I love the food; I love cooking. You make something, you like to hear people brag about it.”

— Bill DeJarnette, Owner (mcdowellnews.com)

What’s next

DeJarnette says he will keep The Dairy Bar open as he searches for the right buyer to take over the beloved local restaurant.

The takeaway

The potential sale of The Dairy Bar highlights the challenges small, independent restaurants face in an evolving industry, as well as the importance of preserving local food traditions and community gathering places like this 50-year-old establishment.