A Mediterranean taste of Pittsburgh’s past meets the present at new Center Core eatery
PITTSBURGH – Marathon Diner is now open in the AirMall at Pittsburgh International Airport, offering travelers “diner food with a Greek flair.” Located in the airside terminal’s Center Core food court, the 536-square-foot restaurant offers all-day home-style breakfast and Mediterranean-infused diner fare ranging from burgers and gyros to sandwiches, salads and soups.
“Travelers will receive an authentic taste of Pittsburgh history at Marathon Diner,” said Bob Kerlik, Vice President of Media Relations, Pittsburgh International Airport. “We are excited about this new concept from Drew Janis, a longtime local restaurant operator at Pittsburgh International Airport.”
Drew Janis has operated dining concessions at Pittsburgh International Airport since it opened in 1992. The new Marathon Diner pays homage to Marathon Restaurant, an establishment owned by his grandfather and great-uncle in downtown Pittsburgh’s New Diamond Market building during the 1930s. Marathon Diner’s walls are adorned with historical images of the original restaurant and proprietors Papou Tom and Uncle Pete.
Mr. Janis celebrates his Greek heritage with featured items like the Marathon Gyro, Greek Burger, Greek Lemon Chicken Soup made in-house from a traditional family recipe and rice pudding. Guests are invited to “make it Marathon Pittsburgh Style” with the addition of coleslaw and French fries to any sandwich.
Breakfast is offered all day with favorites like the ham and cheese omelet joining the “My Big Fat Greek Omelet” made with feta cheese, onions and tzatziki sauce.
Mr. Janis sources meat, bread and produce from the same local purveyors that he has used during his 25 years at the airport to ensure the same quality and consistency for loyal patrons.
The new diner is open from 4 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Friday and from 4 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday.
About Allegheny County Airport Authority
Allegheny County Airport Authority, which manages Pittsburgh International Airport and Allegheny County Airport, is committed to increasing air service, improving customer service and inspiring growth in the Pittsburgh region. Its 2016 Annual Report detailing growth and improved financial position can be found at www.flypittsburgh.com/AR16.
Pittsburgh International Airport serves more than 8 million passengers annually on 16 carriers. During the past two years, the airport has increased its nonstop destinations more than 80 percent to include 68 airports. Air Transport World named Pittsburgh International its 2017 Airport of the Year. Travel + Leisure and Conde Nast both named Pittsburgh International a Top 10 Domestic Airport in 2016. In addition, TripAdvisor ranked Pittsburgh International Airport a Travelers’ Choice Favorite for Shopping in 2016.