The project will combine 13 and 15 E. Market St. into a single restaurant destination overlooking Lewistown’s historic square, said MAB Holdings President Mike Buffington, who is coordinating the project, adding that he hopes to complete construction by the end of the year, with the new restaurant expected to move into the space in early 2027.

While the identity of the business has not yet been released, Buffington said it will be a locally-owned restaurant. An official announcement identifying the operator is expected within the next few weeks.

Plans call for extensive renovations to 13 E. Market St., including indoor dining, takeout service and restoration of many of the building’s original architectural features. The restaurant will feature dining areas overlooking the square, as well as a modern commercial kitchen designed to meet current dining and service needs.

The project will also include new outdoor dining space along East Market Street.

Submitted photo
Pictured are conceptual drawings by Nathan Parkes of what is soon expected to become a restaurant and adjoining outdoor dining space.

The most significant aspect of the redevelopment involves the demolition of the structure at 15 E. Market St., known to many residents as the former Trolley Car restaurant. Most recently, the building housed The Nook restaurant and has been vacant since 2025.

Buffington said demolition is expected to begin in early July.

While acknowledging the building’s historical significance and sentimental value to many residents, Buffington said the structure’s deteriorating condition leaves few alternatives.

“The walls are starting to fall outward,” Buffington said. “At that time period, it was a prefabricated building, and it has been added on to over the years. Unfortunately, not all of the additions have been done properly.”

The building was originally a “lunch wagon” manufactured by the Jerry O’Mahony Dining Car Company. Historical information released with the project states the structure first operated as the Club Diner before later becoming Campbell’s Diner and eventually becoming widely known as the Trolley Car.

Currently, “it doesn’t meet ADA requirements, and it’s not structurally sound for the type of repairs that would need to be made,” Buffington said.

By removing the building, developers plan to create a purpose-built outdoor dining area and kitchen space that they say will better serve patrons while improving the long-term viability of the location.

The neighboring building at 13 E. Market St., which most recently housed Lost Art Studio and Vintage, will remain intact, with many of its historic features preserved and restored as part of the renovation.

The project has already received the necessary zoning and building permits, Buffington said.

Construction will be completed primarily by local contractors, including GT Maintenance and Construction and Carlson Brothers.

Developers said they believe the finished project will become another destination in Lewistown’s downtown business district.

“I can’t say what it is, but everybody will enjoy it,” Buffington said.

Additional details about the restaurant and its ownership are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.