(Matt Newton, Owner of Archie’s Airport Diner at Chautauqua County’s Jamestown Airport, is set to open for business in March. The new full-service diner will offer breakfast and lunch while honoring the County’s rich aviation history.)
ELLICOTT, NY — Chautauqua County’s Jamestown Airport will soon welcome Archie’s Airport Diner, a new full-service breakfast and lunch destination opening in March. Family, Food, Flight. The three things are the inspiration for Archies Diner, according to owner Matthew Newton.
The Newton family has a long history of aviation in Chautauqua County, dating back to the 1920s. Archie Sr, was a WACO plane dealer and had a flight school at Falconer Field. Archie Jr. received his pilot license at Jamestown airport in 1940, and from there became a pilot for Pan Am. Joining the war effort through CNAC, he flew over 100 sorties over the "Hump", flying DC3s while encountering some of the most dangerous conditions to fly on the planet.
Douglas, Matt’s father, joined the Airforce and instead of flying the planes, he had a more important job, keeping the planes airworthy and the pilots and crew safe. Douglas instilled the value of hard work, adventure, and the value of taking a risk, says Matt.
Matt has extensive restaurant experience, and a love for food. The menu will be "diner centric", specializing in hearty breakfasts and homestyle lunches including a large selection of ''grab and go'' breakfast sandwiches and lunch specialties. "I cant believe I get to watch planes and make food" ''a dream come true'', says Matt. who also received his pilot license at the same airport as his grandfather. Archies will be looking to receive a liquor license by summer and has plans for special dinners and fun fly in events. All with the absolute best views in the county!
“This is exactly the type of development we want to see at our County airport,” said County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. “Archie’s Airport Diner not only honors Chautauqua County’s aviation heritage, but also brings new energy, jobs, and opportunity to the facility and the surrounding community.”
The walls of Archie’s will showcase historic memorabilia honoring local aviation pioneers, who helped shape the skies over Chautauqua County.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Archie’s Airport Diner to Chautauqua County Airport,” said John Machemer, Deputy Director of Public Facilities. “Matt’s energy, vision, and commitment to honoring aviation history while creating a vibrant dining experience are exactly the kind of business development and growth we want to see at the airport. This is a great step forward for our community and for the airport’s future.”
Grand Opening details will be announced soon. Follow Archie’s Airport Diner on Facebook for updates, opening dates, and event announcements.
