Business, Food

Big Red Cafe to close its Destin diner doors after final service on New Year’s Eve

The Big Red Cafe, housed in a historic train car known as the Destin Diner, announced it will cease operations at its Highway 98 location due to extensive repair needs.

Jared Williams

The iconic train car restaurant at the corner of Highway 98 and Airport Road will serve its final meal on December 31, 2024, as owners Casey and Jami Jones announced the closure of Big Red Cafe due to mounting maintenance challenges.

The restaurant, which operates daily from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., has become known for its all-day breakfast service and lunch offerings, including daily specials with dessert. The establishment is currently housed in what was historically known as the Destin Diner at 1083 Highway 98 East.

“The time has come for the building to retire. Repairs needed are just too vast,” the owners stated in a Facebook announcement. They added that new development is planned for the location in the future.

The Jones family, who previously operated The Big Red Truck and The Wharf 850, will continue their presence in the local dining scene, with future plans for the Big Red Cafe brand to be announced in the coming months.The restaurant plans to hold a retirement celebration event, with details to be announced. Until its closure, Big Red Cafe will continue serving its full menu of classic American diner fare.

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Big Red Cafe to close its Destin diner doors after final service on New Year’s Eve

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