The beloved Peter Pan Diner, a staple of the Bay Shore community for decades, is expected to be rebuilt after a devastating fire destroyed the restaurant earlier this year. The iconic diner has been boarded up since July.

Owner Peter Lentzeres recently shared an update on Facebook, announcing that the insurance settlement has been finalized, and contractors and designers have been hired to begin the process of rebuilding a brand-new diner.

The news has sparked excitement and support from the community. “Everybody knows Peter Pan Diner,” said Jon Irizarry of Brentwood. “It’s right here in the heart of Bay Shore, so I think it’s fantastic.”

Though it's unclear when the diner will reopen, many loyal customers are already looking forward to its return. “It’s great news for the community,” said Ehitshan Haq, a West Islip resident. “Their food is always good, and they’re great people. I’ll definitely go back once it’s open again.”

The Peter Pan Diner, which has been a local fixture for nearly 70 years, is family-owned and has been passed down through four generations.