Thousands Mourn the Close of Cafe Edison, One of the Last True Lunch Counters in Times Square

New Yorkers have resigned themselves to the fact that Times Square no longer belongs to us, it's for the tourists. But, things have gone one step too far. Yesterday, the news dropped Cafe Edison, a longtime theater haunt and one of the last signs of an old New York in the neighborhood, will close by the year's end. The lunch counter is being pushed out to make room for a white tablecloth restaurant with a "name chef" and what the hotel's GM calls "multimillion-dollar investment to upgrade and restore the space.'"

Testimonials have started appearing online and on twitter there's now the heavily used hashtag #SaveCafeEdison. On Grub Street Julie Klausner writes:

I know you have to love New York City's constant flux in order to stay in love with New York City. But this closing feels different: like the final dagger in the Times Square Tourist Elmo Massacre.

A Gentleman's Guide tweeted:

We can help. #SaveCafeEdison pic.twitter.com/aC4TTGUbQv

— A Gentlemans Guide (@GentlemansGuide) November 6, 2014

More than 2,000 people have signed a petition with a letter addressed to Richard Hotter, the hotel's GM:

We ask that you and your hotel management please reconsider renewing the Cafe Edison's lease, and at a fair and reasonable price, with the knowledge that you would be preserving what's left of the character of the old Theatre District and your own hotel.

Fans and supporters are gathering tomorrow at lunchtime to show support.