Think modern diner but with a twist.
Bright Light Diner, a new concept diner fusing classic American breakfast plates with Mexican fare, is planning on opening next week in Plainville at 33 East St. The location has traded hands several times over the last few years including being a hibachi restaurant and before that a Thai restaurant.
The diner is owned by longtime Plainville husband-wife duo Fernando Hernandez and Rosie Francisco. The pair, who have lived in Plainville for over 20 years, emigrated to the United States from Mexico before making the town their home. Hernandez ran the kitchen at Pagliacci’s in Plainville for 18 years under the restaurant’s prior owner Dennis Wood. Francisco worked at Fancy Bagel off Route 6 in Farmington for the last 20 years. The pair said that they felt the time was right to open their own restaurant.
“We really got to know our customers well and we saw there was a need for a diner in the area,” Francisco said. “We plan on having typical breakfast, lunch and dinner fare but we will serve several Mexican dishes as well. We have some unique breakfast sandwich and omelette offerings including a french toast sandwich with eggs and bacon.”
The pair said the building took several months to renovate and remodel.
“The interior was very dark and we wanted to spruce it up with some lighter colors,” Fransciso said. “The building was very outdated and required a lot of work. We painted, put in new decorations and lighting and added new patio space and furniture. We wanted to create a more welcoming atmosphere.”
Francisco said they are in the process of applying for a liquor license and hope to serve classic drinks like margaritas and martinis.
“We’re hoping to open on Wednesday next week pending one final inspection,” Francisco said. “We are still hiring for positions for the afternoon including servers but we are ready to open next week.”
Stephen Underwood can be reached at [email protected]
