The Solebury Board of Supervisors this week unanimously approved an inter-municipal liquor license transfer for the new restaurant.
Patch Staff
SOLEBURY TOWNSHIP, PA — Plans to open a new restaurant and bar at the former New Hope Star Diner took a significant step forward on Tuesday.
At its meeting this week, the Solebury Township Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to approve the inter-municipal transfer of a liquor license from the now closed TGI Friday restaurant in Middletown Township to 6522 Lower York Road in Solebury.
Two cousins - Frank Picone and Anthony Adragna - with decades of experience in the restaurant industry - are planning to open a full-service, dine-in Italian restaurant and bar at the former diner site located just west of the Logan Square Shopping Center on Route 202.
Picone told the supervisors the liquor license is going to contribute to the success of the new restaurant and create a nice gathering place for the community to enjoy good food and drinks.
“We’re going to have a great atmosphere inside the restaurant and we hope to entertain all of you," he said.
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Picone grew up in the restaurant business working for his dad, Salvatore, at V&S Pizza in Fairless Hills. He later transitioned to a successful career as a Certified Public Accountant.
“Integrity is of the utmost importance to me,” he said.
His cousin Anthony opened and operated Cafe Antonio in Morrisville for years, building it from the ground up into a hugely successful restaurant that attracted high-profile customers, including several New Jersey Governors, before selling it in 2019.
The cafe, within view of the New Jersey state capitol, continues to be a staple in the riverfront community known for its warm homemade bread, fresh pastas, and mouthwatering Mediterranean dishes like chicken champagne.
During the coming months, the cousins plan on making “a considerable investment” in the former diner, from the installation of new plumbing to new electrical systems. They are projecting a summer opening.
“I’m so delighted to know the diner is going to get a new life. I look forward to it with excitement,” said Supervisor John Francis.
After eight years of operation, the New Hope Star Diner closed its doors in Nov. 2023. The property was put up for sale in early January 2024.