The dinner bell soon will be ringing at Tommy’s Diner.

For the first time in its 27-year history, the popular Franklinton breakfast-and-lunch spot is adding permanent dinner hours starting Feb. 1.

“It’s something I’ve wanted to do,” said Tommy Pappas, owner of the diner at 914 W. Broad St.

Four to five dinner entrees will be added to the regular menu and offered Wednesdays through Saturdays. Customers can expect a rotating selection of pasta dishes, seafood and Greek and Italian specialties, with prime rib and steaks added on the weekends.

Most dishes will be in the $13 to $20 range.

Michael Pappas, Tommy Pappas’ son and manager of the restaurant, said customers have been asking the family to extend hours for some time.

He said the time is right. The neighborhood redevelopment efforts are gaining traction and the closing of the Florentine, a dining landmark right across the street, has created a void for the dinner crowd.

Tommy's would be glad to feed them.

“I think what draws a lot of people here are our specials,” Michael Pappas said. “They’re made from scratch every day.”

Tommy’s is known for its omelets, burgers, sandwiches, fresh soups and salads and daily specials, all competitively priced.

Patrons can expect upgrades to the drink menu, as Tommy’s has a full liquor license, Michael Pappas said.

The busy dining room is defined by its speckled-red booths, counter seating and scores of pictures, many featuring Tommy Pappas with local politicos and sports figures, covering the walls.

Tommy’s experimented with dinner hours about five years ago, offering them one day a week for three months. Michael Pappas said it went well but was discontinued because of staffing issues.

“Franklinton isn’t the same neighborhood it was, even five years ago,” he said.

The plan is to stay open until 8 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday and 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

For more information, call 614-224-2422.

Dispatch restaurant reporter Gary Seman Jr. can be reached at onrestaurants@dispatch.com.