Hazelwood Diner receives help from an unexpected source

HAZELWOOD, Mo. — A small diner in northern St. Louis County was flooded with customers Sunday afternoon after the owner of nearby business Man Meats posted on social media April 12 asking for help from the community. .

Thanks to that post, empty plates piled up and every table at Jo Jo’s Diner in Hazelwood was full on Sunday.

“I never imagined I would be in this situation. It’s a dream come true for us. It’s been great and we’re grateful to the people of Hazelwood and St. Louis,” said the 12-year-old company. restaurant owner Sean Bonin said.

Until a few days ago, the foot traffic at this mother-and-child shopping street was not what it was this weekend.

“Since COVID-19, we have lost crew members,” Bonin said.

Bob Manecke, owner of Florissant restaurant Man Meets, knows that feeling all too well.

“When I started the restaurant, I didn’t have anything. I felt alone, like I had to do something. Social media is like our backbone,” Manecke said. Told.

He learned about Jo Jo’s temperament when he stopped by Bonin to ask for help with a community fundraiser.

“he [Sean Bonin] It was like I had nothing to give. He says, “You want to buy a diner?” Hey, you. That shocked me. I’m like a human. This guy is sitting here with the door open, but no one is sitting there. ”

Manecke took a photo of the menu with her cell phone and shared it on Facebook.

Within 30 minutes, likes and comments started pouring in and customers started pouring through the door.

“I come out here and it’s so crowded inside. The parking lot is full. I go back to the kitchen. His grill is full. He turns to me. He says, ‘Bob. , what did you do to me?’” It was more like, “I’m sorry,” not “I’m sorry.” ”

Bonin hasn’t stopped moving since Friday’s post, taking on all the jobs at the restaurant.

“I’m jumping around like a grown chicken. It’s very simple,” he said proudly.

One of the people who heard about Jo Jo’s was Carol Meier.

“Florissant had just come out so I wasn’t sure if I would be able to get in today. I’m so proud of Florissant. I’m so proud to live here. This place was amazing. I’ll definitely be back.”, “She said.

This good deed reflects the success that occurs when the small business community comes together.

“To see it all come true in such a short period of time. It’s overwhelming for him, but he’ll adapt. The community is strong,” Manecke said.

“You have to have a good heart to help someone without going overboard,” Bonin says.

Jo Jo’s is hiring some staff to help with the influx, hoping people will continue to come to the store.

Business hours are 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. daily.

Mann Meats and Jo Jo’s Diner are currently hiring.