Longtime Server Opens Lakeland Diner After Decades Behind the Counter

Robin Schlesing, who received a $1,000 tip on Christmas Eve two years ago, has opened her own diner in the same location that was previously Suzie's.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 3:39pm

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A bold, colorful silkscreen-style illustration featuring a repeated pattern of a classic diner coffee cup in vibrant neon hues, conceptually representing the welcoming atmosphere and iconic imagery of a beloved local eatery.The cheerful reopening of a beloved local diner under new ownership celebrates the enduring appeal of community-focused, small-town establishments.Lakeland Today

After working in diners across Central New York for over four decades, 65-year-old Robin Schlesing has opened her own diner called the Lakeland Diner. The diner takes over the spot that was previously Suzie's, a longtime local favorite. Schlesing, who made headlines a couple years ago for receiving a $1,000 tip on Christmas Eve, is excited to be back in a familiar setting, cooking and serving customers she has known for years.

Why it matters

The opening of the Lakeland Diner represents a heartwarming story of a longtime server finally realizing her dream of owning her own diner. It also highlights the enduring appeal of local, community-focused diners that foster a sense of belonging and familiarity for regular customers.

The details

Schlesing spent six years working at Gracie's Kitchen before leaving in November, feeling burned out. But when the opportunity came to take over the former Suzie's diner location, she jumped at the chance. The space didn't need much work, and Schlesing was quickly back in her element, cooking, serving customers, and fostering the same welcoming atmosphere that Suzie's had. Many of Suzie's regular customers returned on opening day, happy to see a familiar face behind the counter.

  • Schlesing worked at Gracie's Kitchen for six years before leaving in November.
  • Two years ago, Schlesing received a $1,000 tip on Christmas Eve.
  • The Lakeland Diner opened at 7 a.m. on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.

The players

Robin Schlesing

A 65-year-old woman who has worked in diners across Central New York for over four decades. She recently opened her own diner, the Lakeland Diner, in the same location that was previously Suzie's.

Suzie's

The previous diner that occupied the location where the Lakeland Diner is now located. Suzie's had a loyal customer base that has now returned to the new Lakeland Diner.

Ed Thurston

A regular customer who has known Schlesing from her time working at Gracie's Kitchen and is now one of the first customers at the new Lakeland Diner.

Jim Baleno

A local resident who was among the first customers at the Lakeland Diner on opening day and has known Schlesing from her previous serving jobs.

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What they’re saying

“Give me a hug”

— Ed Thurston, Regular Customer

“Now this is Central New York right here. Look at the smile on her face. This is where she needs to be. This is where we all need to be.”

— Jim Baleno, Local Resident

What’s next

Schlesing will continue to fine-tune the menu and operations of the new Lakeland Diner in the coming weeks as she settles into her role as the owner and operator of the diner.

The takeaway

The opening of the Lakeland Diner represents the realization of a longtime server's dream to own her own establishment, and the enduring appeal of community-focused, local diners that foster a sense of belonging for regular customers. Schlesing's reputation for kindness and generosity has followed her to the new diner, and her loyal customers are eager to support her in this next chapter.