The Waverly Restaurant. Earlier this year I was told the owner would be adding some space in the back but of course I completely forgot about it. Then this morning there was a sign that said as of July 5 they will be closed for renovation. 

I sort of freaked out.

For how long? Why would you touch a place that hasn’t changed for thirty years? What will the servers do? Where will I read on the weekends?

Turns out it will be under construction for about two months (or more!). My regular guys at the counter are going to take well deserved vacations. We said “see you soon” and took pictures in the original dining room.

But to tide me over until what will likely be autumn, my favorite diner waiters gave me one of the mugs that has been next to me and my books week after week. There may be new ones when we all return and it’s nice to know I’ll have a piece of what I’ve always considered my favorite place in New York City. 

If there are amazing people in your life who know you by name, feed you pancakes, pour you coffee, and let you read in peace, take care of them. They’ll take care of you, too.