Glenwood Springs Diner Celebrates 40 Years of Service

Glenwood Springs' 19th Street — the smell of bacon and eggs wafts through the air, a familiar comfort that hasn't changed in 40 years. The 19th Street Diner, a staple in this community, marks a major milestone — four decades of serving locals and visitors alike. Make no mistake, this diner's success isn't just about its longevity, it's about the trust it's built with the people of Glenwood Springs.

The diner's story begins in 1986, when Joe "Swanee" Schwanabeck and his wife, K.G. Schwanabeck, first opened its doors. Nearly two decades ago, Rick and Tonya Wernsmann took over, bringing their own vision to the table while respecting the diner's established identity. Tonya had already spent 12 years working at the diner, starting in 1994, and Rick arrived in 2005, after selling furniture in the area for 12 years. The couple purchased the restaurant in 2007, stepping into a business with a loyal local following and a clear sense of self.

Rick Wernsmann's philosophy; don't fix what isn't broken - has been key to the diner's enduring success. "The one thing that the diner had was the locals and your typical diner menu, and that's just not something that you want to change," he said. The diner's comfort food, familiar feel, and dependable nature have remained intact, allowing it to evolve organically over time.

One significant change came with the addition of a smoker, which the Wernsmanns acquired and integrated into their menu. This move added house-smoked meats and specials, broadening the diner's offerings while staying true to its core. The smoker, now a fixture out front, has become an essential part of the diner's identity.

The short version. the diner's commitment to consistency and customer service has carried it through tough times, including the recession, the Grand Avenue bridge project, and the COVID-19 pandemic. "Our consistency and our customer service are what I consider second to none," Rick Wernsmann said. This approach has earned the diner a loyal following and a reputation as a trusted fixture in the community.

As this Glenwood Springs institution celebrates 40 years, it's clear that its success is rooted in its connection to the people of Glenwood Springs. The diner has become a part of the community's fabric, a place where locals and visitors can rely on a warm welcome and a satisfying meal. Read that again, 40 years of showing up for Glenwood Springs, and the diner's still going strong.

The diner's ability to adapt to changing times, while remaining true to its core values, is worth watching. As the restaurant industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Rick and Tonya Wernsmann navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. For now, consistency, community, and good old-fashioned comfort food remain at the forefront.

Folks around here know this place as a constant in an ever-changing world. As the years go by, it's likely that the Wernsmanns' commitment to the community and its values will remain unchanged. The people of Glenwood Springs will be watching, and they'll be coming back for more of that comfort food and community that only this diner can provide.