“Soft Open” for 8-Bit Bites at Former Red Robin Diner Site in JC

A 75-year-old diner that was a favorite for customers in Binghamton and Johnson City has been given a colorful makeover as it starts a new chapter.

The old Red Robin Diner in the heart of Johnson City has been transformed into an 8-Bit Bites restaurant.

The new establishment at 268 Main Street opened without fanfare over the weekend, less than 14 months after the property was acquired by a town of Binghamton man.

Taimoor Khan previously said he expected people would be surprised by the new experience that will be available at his restaurant. It's the sixth location for 8-Bit Bites, which already has three units in Brooklyn and two in Manhattan.

Khan and his team seemed pleased with the initial response from the first guests who stopped by the new eatery during what is billed as a "soft opening."

The 8-Bit Bites website describes the concept as "a 100% Halal restaurant that brings the nostalgia of the 80's and 90's."

The place has a menu that features smash burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, tenders, wings, fries and shakes. Diners can play free video games as they enjoy their meal.

The initial posted operating hours are from noon to 8 p.m., seven days a week.

The old Red Robin Diner closed its doors in January 2021. The traditional diner structure has been a fixture on Main Street in Johnson City since 1959, when it was moved from a location on Binghamton's South Side.

VIDEO: A look inside what had been Johnson City's Red Robin Diner.

Enter your number to get our free mobile app

Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.