EAST BRUNSWICK – After nearly a year in business, Metro Diner has closed its Route 18 location.

“We decided to close this location permanently," said Jeff Schifrin, a joint partner in the business. "It's a financial decision. It's unfortunate. This one just didn't work out."

The eatery, known for its hefty portions, opened in March 2019 at 269 Route 18 south and Lake Avenue.

The business closed during the midday break at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Schifrin said.

READ: Metro Diner opens first NJ location in East Brunswick

"The guests there were great, and we loved serving them," he said. "It was a just a financial decision that we had made."

Schifrin said team members were offered a chance to transfer to other locations, if possible.

The closest location is Bensalem, Pennsylvania, he said.

READ:South River man apprehended following police standoff

"We're always looking for great sites, but unfortunately this one just didn't work out," Schifrin said.

Metro Diner, which opened in 1992 in Jacksonville, Florida, also has locations in Georgia, Delaware and North Carolina.

Email: sloyer@gannettnj.com

Susan Loyer covers Middlesex County and more for MyCentralJersey.com. To get unlimited access to her work, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.