LEWISTOWN — By the time you read this, Lewistown might have lost another one of its famous landmarks.

The owners of Red’s Diner in Lewistown said the once-popular restaurant will close its doors at 2 p.m. today. For good? Well, that’s to be determined by the new owner.

“Yes, it has been sold,” said Kim Barner, who has owned Red’s Diner since 2005 with husband Ron. “A guy from Florida bought it. He is trying to lease the building out. Until this happens, it will remain closed.”

With their children not interested in running the restaurant, the Barners have been trying to sell the diner since 2022.

Red’s, which opened in 1954 at its current location at 878 U.S. Highway 22 in Derry Township — and before that at a nearby location — was listed for $599,900 in June 2022 by Smeltz and Aumiller Real Estate LLC in Lewistown. The most recent purchase price was not disclosed.

The Barners bought Red’s from its original owners, the late Ben and Shirley Glendye. A friend talked them into buying the business, a decision they have never regretted.

“Me and Kim both are going to miss it, but it’s time to move on,” Ron Barner said during a 2022 interview with The Sentinel.

Looking back over nearly two decades of owning Red’s, Ron Barner said the best part was undoubtedly the people — customers and employees alike.

“It’s special and it’s hard to see it go,” he continued during that interview. “It made our living very good. We’ve been thinking about it (selling Red’s) for a while now.”

In its heyday, the restaurant was open 24 hours, seven days a week. In the weeks leading up to Friday’s announcement, rumors swirled on social media about Red’s future. Many loyal diners had posted about their favorite meals or asked others about their favorite meals. Now, they must wait with bated breath to see what will happen to the location.

“Red’s Diner has been a beloved local landmark for many years,” Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Rhonda Kelley said. “It has served many generations. I’m sure most of us can remember our favorite food served there such as their chef salads, pancakes and onion rings to name a few. As with any treasured local icon it is sad to see it go, but I am thankful for the wonderful local restaurant options that remain.”

Kim Barner could not say what the future might hold for Red’s.

“I do not know if it will remain a restaurant,” she said.

If this is it, Red’s Diner will long be remembered for its food and fellowship. One final check please.