In 1953, Anthony Cagnina opened the Dilly Diner at 1322 S Dale Mabry Hwy, across from Publix at Neptune. Modular diners, with their signature streamlined stainless steel exteriors, chrome accents, bold geometric lines, and long lunch counters, were iconic fixtures of the 1950s. These establishments became popular gathering spots for people of all ages but held a special charm for teenagers. This building was purchased from Mountain View Diners in St. Petersburg, a company that also manufactured structures for the well-known Ayers Diners.

The Dilly, conveniently located just blocks from H.B. Plant High School, operated 24 hours a day and served a menu of chicken, steak, and seafood. However, after less than a year in business, the diner changed hands in mid-1954 when brothers Calvin and Mel Ayers purchased it as their third Ayers Diner location. The Ayers brothers operated the diner for 13 years, but as diners began to lose their popularity in the late 1960s, they sold the business in 1968. The establishment reopened as Ware’s Diner—likely a nod to the original name’s branding appeal. Unfortunately, the building suffered a devastating fire in 1974.

By 1975, Fred “Pop” Reavis and his sons, George and Gerald, opened Pop N’ Son Diner on the site. At a time when fast-food chains were emerging everywhere, Reavis criticized their "computer-fried frozen food" and focused instead on providing fresh meals in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. His approach resonated with diners—at least for a while. In 1989, his nemesis appeared when Checker’s Drive-In was built on the lot, offering its popular 99¢, ¼ lb Champ Burger.

The era of restaurants at this location ended in the early 2000s, as the site became home to Wachovia Bank. After subsequent mergers and acquisitions, it now houses a Chase Bank branch.

In February 1977, Pop N’ Son expanded with a second location near Britton Plaza at 4041 S Dale Mabry, across from what is now Lowe's. Meanwhile, Lum’s Hot Dogs, a popular chain, operated at 4812 N Dale Mabry from 1973 until its closure in 1981. Pop N’ Son moved into the vacant Lum’s building in 1982, continuing its status as a beloved hometown diner. However, after temporarily closing in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the business was sold to Miami restaurateur Richard Hales. Hales reinvented the space as Hale Black Brick, a restaurant specializing in Asian cuisine. 

 © Chip Weiner. All rights reserved