Boulevard Diner Gets Spotlight On The Food Network

DUNDALK, Md. (WJZ) -- If you've been to Dundalk, you've probably enjoyed a good meal at the popular Boulevard Diner. It's been a mainstay on Merritt Boulevard for more than a decade.

Ron Matz  reports on why customers and employees can't wait for Monday night when the diner goes prime time.

There's good eating at the Boulevard Diner, especially the desserts.

The Boulevard and its desserts will be in the national spotlight Monday night with Guy Fieri on the Food Network.

"There was a lot of food preparation. Before Guy got here I was a wreck. I was nervous and excited at the same time, but it was a lot of fun," said Marc Tsakiris, general manager of the Boulevard Diner. "Guy was funny. He was always cracking jokes and making fun of me a couple of times. He was trying to get laughs from me and the crew to make it more relaxing. After working with him for five or 10 minutes, I was more at ease."

Waitress Melissa Kline says she too was a bundle of nerves while meeting the big star.

"I was really nervous to meet Guy. I didn't know how he would be like. He's actually a down-to-earth fun guy, just like you see on TV," said Kline.  "I would say it's the most exciting thing. I'm proud of them and they're great people to work for."

It will be a proud night for Dundalk and beyond, as the Boulevard gets ready for its close-up on "Diners, Drive-ins and Dives."

"We had some customers that really loved our place and they emailed and called the Food Network.  They were pretty persistent because we got a lot of calls.  The producer called and said they decided to come in," said Tsakiris.

In the old days, the Boulevard Diner was the House of Neptune, owned by Tsakiris' grandfather.

"I'm really proud that we're on. My grandfather would be real proud. He had the old House of Neptune here. I think it's going to be great for the business and great for the town, too," said Tsakiris.

The episode was taped over two days back in November.