Cairo roadside landmark reopens as Char’s Family Diner
Published on:
January 12, 2026
Charlotte Blair (second from left) and the crew of the new Char’s Family Diner.
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CAIRO—A familiar roadside landmark on State Route 32 has a new name, a new owner, and a renewed sense of community spirit.
Formerly known as Mike’s Diner, that closed in December of 2024, the popular restaurant reopened on Thursday, January 8, at 6 a.m. as Char’s Family Diner, welcoming customers back with a packed dining room and strong local support.
The diner is now owned by Charlotte Blair, a longtime local cook with more than 20 years of experience in food service. Blair previously worked in the Coxsackie-Athens Central School District kitchens and at the Earlton Hill Campground, where she became known for her hearty, home-style meals.
“I took over the diner because I love to cook,” Blair said. “This has always been something I wanted to do.”
That passion showed during opening week. According to Blair, the response from the community exceeded expectations.
“We were so busy this week we actually ran out of food at one point,” she said with a laugh. “We had a fabulous opening day and we are very thankful for the support from the community—it was tremendous.”
Char’s Family Diner has quickly gained attention for its most popular menu items, which include made-to-order omelets, crispy wings, and classic burgers—all of which have proven to be top sellers in the first days of operation.
Of course, they serve up classics like eggs any style, pancakes and French toast, as well as an assortment of appetizers, salads, soup, sandwiches and desserts. There is also a kid’s menu and daily specials.
Blair noted that many familiar faces showed up to support the new venture.
“A lot of my campers from the Earlton Hill Campground came out to eat and show their support,” she said. “That meant a lot to me.”
Char’s Family Diner is open from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, and from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday; closed on Wednesday.
For more information, check out Char’s Family Diner on Facebook or stop in at 6298 State Route 32.
